Our Constitutional rights matter. They are valuable to each individual. I just read that some people were awarded over $10,000,000 for the mistreatment by law enforcement officers while protesting. I am super sympathetic to the difficulty of the officers, not so sympathetic to their city council and chief. They were put in a difficult place. Apparently, there were very violent protesters committing crimes. So, they shot bean bags into the crowd and injured peaceful protesters. For that violation of rights and harm, the people won a significant money judgment and vindication of their rights. The Romans in the first century championed individual rights for natural born citizens. So, when Paul and Timothy had their rights violated, those magistrates were very afraid that the news about their misconduct would reach Rome. In a far more important way, since I have been born again into the kingdom of God, I have the right to come to God in prayer and to be received as His own dear Son.
Now when day came, the chief magistrates sent their officers, saying, “Release those men.” And the jailer reported these words to Paul, saying, “The chief magistrates have sent word that you be released. So come out now and go in peace.” But Paul said to them, “After beating us in public without due process—men who are Romans—they threw us into prison; and now they are releasing us secretly? No indeed! On the contrary, let them come in person and lead us out.” The officers reported these words to the chief magistrates. And they became fearful when they heard that they were Romans, and they came and pleaded with them, and when they had led them out, they repeatedly asked them to leave the city. Acts 16:35-39 NASB
How much do I value my natural born rights afforded to me in America? How much more do I appreciate that which God has granted me as a citizen of heaven?
God, as this day begins- Another day with opportunity to reach out and love someone in Your name. Would You go before me and show me who needs Your love, help, or kindness. Help me accomplish the ministry within my family and friends and strangers as well. Oh, how I appreciate my dual citizenship. I love you and I love America. Forgive us for our terrible national sins and corruption at the highest levels. Please heal our land, pour out Your Spirit upon us, and bring revival to this land.
