On this day that we celebrate the signing of the resolution that became the 13th amendment, may we continue to fight for freedom from slavery and involuntary servitude, O God who freed us from sin. Let us be consistent in our desire to remember our history, so that we may not repeat it. Help us to recognize when policies or practices make it seem as if we have people in our midst who are living close to involuntary servitude. May we look to lift people up and encourage them to the great things that we know them capable and remove the stumbling blocks from their way. Give us the courage to act in stopping slavery wherever it exists. May our eyes be open so that we can see the slavery that exists before us in its many forms. Let this Freedom Day be a continuation of our fight for freedom for all. Amen