It was back in the early 1960s. Several emerging nations on the continent of Africa were receiving their independence from colonial powers that had ruled over them for decades and, in some cases, centuries. There were pictures and stories in the news of thousands of these formerly oppressed peoples coming from the hills, savannas and villages to collect this newfound "freedom." There were long cues of humanity with baskets, jugs, carts and any other containers that could convey the precious "freedom" back to their homes.

It was obvious that someone had impressed upon these citizens the invaluable treasure of freedom, but they had neglected to explain it fully enough for them to grasp that it was not a commodity to be hauled away in containers. It can only be carried around in the hearts and minds of human beings.

The soil has been soaked with the blood of Americans and others who were willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice for the cause of freedom. As a youth, I was always intrigued by the ideals set forth in the "Four Freedoms" painted by Norman Rockwell, the famous American folk artist. The idea of the "Four Freedoms" was first articulated by Franklin D. Roosevelt, then U.S. president, in a speech to Congress on January 6, 1941.

There is "Freedom from Want," depicted as a smiling family gathered at a dining table groaning with all manner of delicious foods. Then there is "Freedom of Speech," probably the most emotion-laden idea in America. Rockwell saw it as a brave, lone citizen standing before his countrymen and expressing his opinion. Who could miss the passion in "Freedom from Fear," as you see two adoring parents looking down on their children tucked safely into bed?

But, of course, you would expect me to be most taken by the idea of "Freedom of Worship," which guarantees the right of each American to worship God after the dictates of one's own heart. The painting shows several seniors bowing, hands clasped in prayer. "Freedom of Worship" does not require that anyone else agree with me. It seems that the only restriction is that the practice and expression of my faith shall not infringe upon the rights and freedoms of others.

That would seem to be very straightforward, but in every age there are those who are not satisfied to allow others to practice their faith without expressions of intolerance and interference. I lost several jobs due to my commitment to keep holy the seventh-day Sabbath of Exodus 20. But the Lord finally gave me the best job of all.

I suppose there are many ways to discuss the principle of freedom, but Holy Scripture sums it up well for me. "Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, 'If ye continue in my word, then ye are my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free'" (John 8:31, 32).

All I need is the truth as it is in Jesus, and I am a free man. Hallelujah!