In our last meditation we saw that we enroll ourselves in the service of our King at our Baptism, our Confirmation, whenever we offer ourselves to God. What is the nature of that service?

It is a service obligatory on all. Every rational being born into the world is bound to enlist in it, and that under the severest penalties. This follows from our relation to our King as our Creator and our God. Whether we acknowledge the obligation or not, it continually is present for us, and embraces our whole life. No human being is exempt from the service of his Creator. Do I recognize this relation, and do I rejoice in it?

The service of the King, though obligatory, is not compulsory. We can hold aloof from Him, and serve other masters, if we choose. He does not force the free will of any of his subjects. Man's perverse will can, if he chooses, set itself in opposition to the will of God, and can so remain through all eternity. It is in the hands of each individual man to enlist in his King's service or not. How have I used my liberty? Have I attached myself to my King in willing subjection, or stood aloof from His service?

Yet we must join some service. If we do not serve our King, we shall of necessity fall under the dominion of some other master. Independence is impossible to any created being, however much he may desire it. To shirk the service of the King is to sink into some form of vile and disgraceful servitude. It is only in His service that true liberty can be found. Do I realize and act upon this?