“From her beacon-hand
Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command
The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame.
‘Keep ancient lands, your storied pomp!’ cries she
With silent lips. ‘Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!’”
– Emma Lazarus

These words are part of the poem inscribed on the base of the Statue of Liberty. Emma Lazarus was Jewish, and knowing she was Jewish helps us understand the importance of the welcoming arms of Lady Liberty.

Whenever I read this poem, I can’t help but think of Jesus. Jesus came to do what? With His arms open, He said, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” This is true liberty! Think about the hardships, pain, suffering, and bondage that oppress people in this fallen world!

Christ gives true liberty to the broken. He redeems us from the slavery of sin. He bears the burdens we lay on Him. He comforts us when we mourn. Finally, He is preparing a place for us.

Our citizenship is in Heaven! We can’t take for granted the liberties that God has provided us in this great nation, but they are nothing compared to the liberty God gives us through salvation. Let us keep our eyes on eternity and use the liberties we have now so others can also experience everlasting freedom.