A thought struck me this morning as I was reading about President Bush’s visit to China this week. While the story focused on trade and economic issues, mentioned political dissidents, and discussed the other topics of intrest during the visit, it was this part of the story that caught my attention.

Bush’s first public event during his two-day state visit to China was a worship service at Gangwashi Church, one of five officially recognized Protestant churches in Beijing. It was Bush’s way of nudging Chinese leaders to expand religious freedom to the communist nation’s 1.3 billion people.

Later, standing alongside Hu, Bush said, “It is important that social, political and religious freedoms grow in China.” [my emphasis]

That got me thinking. Five churches. I did a quick map search and found that there are well over a dozen places of worship within walking distance of our new home. I am free to worship at any one of them. I am free to travel further and worship at any of the dozens and dozens within a short drive. I can choose to stay home if I wish and not worship at all. I can carry my Bible and talk about my faith.

With this one freedom alone how can I ever complain about my country, especially when I am free to do that as well if I choose. God bless you all this Sunday morning, and thank you Lord for the privilege of living in this wonderful, free country.