She’s weathered storms and been tattered. She’s fought hard and been carried through the battle. She’s full of strength and dignity. Her identity has never changed. She’s an inspiration.For over 200 years, she has carried the symbol of unity. People look up at her with respect and honor. And she has so, so much in common with my beautiful friend.

I wish I had words enough to say how much I adore this radiant diamond of a friend. She’s been through the fires and floods, she’s faced trial and rejoiced in victories. And never once have I seen her faith waver. She has a flinchless faith, a sparkling heart and a joy that carries through any circumstance. She’s not afraid to do the seemingly impossible, and she walks with a poise – a peace. And you guys! She has the most beautiful tattoo on her arm that writes, “be still”. Emily reminds me often to just stop. To rest. To breathe. She reminds me how out of control I am and how in control my Father is.

Running out into the fields to soak up the glowy evening light was one of the most precious memories I’ve tucked away and really won’t ever forget. Thank you for reminding me to slow down. For reminding me to rejoice in the present and hope for the future. Thank you for reminding me that my dependence is on Him. Thank you for being the woman in my life to remind me over and over that freedom was not free. But because He paid the price, we can celebrate in hope. Hallelujah, we’ve been set free!

So today I’m celebrating. I’m celebrating the beauty of freedom. Galatians 5:1 says, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves again be burdened by the yoke of slavery.”

“You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature, but rather, serve one another in love.” Galatians 5:13-14

Today, I want to encourage you in this, “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has annointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives, and release from darkness for the prisoners.” I’m celebrating freedom because He paid the ultimate price, He gave the ultimate sacrifice, so in Him, we are free to live as He calls us to. We are free to worship. The price He paid, the sacrifice He gave, they’re to be reminders not just today, but every day, for this life, this country, this place to call home for now – is a gift.

Emily, thank you for reminding me through your courage to be brave. Thank you for reminding me through your joy to be full of hope. Thank you for reminding me through your sense of humor that laughter is healing. And most of all, thank you for never wavering. Thank you for walking through this life with me. It’s an honor.

Happy birthday, America!