I saw this picture on a website and had to post it.  It's a picture of Iran's President and first lady.  Striking, no?

Now bear with me, because I want you to consider something....  

When you look at the picture, do you not tell yourself, "Oh brother, I'm glad I belong to a faith that's free of those kinds of regulations."  Even in conservative Oklahoma, I think most people would tell you that they think that this couple has taken their interpretation of  'the law' a little too far...

So why is it then Christian, when you see another Christian brother at a restaurant enjoying a beer or a glass of wine that you're quick to feel uneasy?  I know many of us grew up thinking this way; I certainly did.  Does their drinking a glass of wine make them more or less righteous?

I was reminded in a great sermon yesterday, that as Christians, we have great freedom in Christ!  Our righteousness is not determined by any kind of good works we do.  We're not considered "better Christians" if we abstain from certain foods, drinks or customs.

As Christians, our righteousness is found only through believing that the sacrifice Christ made for us on the cross is sufficient in making us acceptable before God.  That's it.  The just shall live by faith.

So whether your temptation to make yourself "right" before God is wearing a burka all day or abstaining from a glass of wine, be free in Christ!  Because when your righteousness is found in Christ, you're as holy as you're ever going to be.  And it has nothing to do with what you did or didn't eat for dinner.

Now that's good news!