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Jesus told the people who had faith in him, “If you keep on obeying what I have said, you truly are my disciples. You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” — John 8:31-32 (CEV)

Several years ago, my son and I went on a mission trip to Poland. During the trip, we visited Auschwitz. As you walk up to the entrance, you pass under a heavy iron gate. Forged right into the metal are the German words: “Arbeit macht frei.”

In English, that means: Work makes you free.

It is a chilling, awful lie from history.

But as I have reflected on that phrase over the years, I have realized something. That exact phrase is how our world operates every single day. We are constantly told that if we just work hard enough, perform well enough, or do enough things right, we will finally be happy, safe, and free. We get trapped into tying our entire worth to our own sweat and success.

In John 8, a crowd of people argued with Jesus. They claimed they were already perfectly fine and didn't need to be set free by anyone. They were banking on their history and their own efforts. It is a trap that is so easy to fall into. I know I still catch myself trying to earn my own peace and fix my own mistakes.

But Jesus stands in direct contrast to the exhausting demand of human performance. He looks at us and promises a completely different reality. True freedom isn't something we have to manufacture or earn through hard work. It isn't about doing whatever we want, either. Real freedom is a gift that is freely given by Jesus when we stop trying to run the show and simply rest in His words.

You don't have to earn your way out of the cage. Jesus already unlocked the door.

Text Pastor Vic at 509-919-1897 if you'd like to talk.