Every August, we celebrate the independence of the Indonesian nation once again. We are grateful that we no longer live under colonization. However, in the midst of the independence celebration, there is a question we need to reflect upon: Are we truly living as free people? We may no longer be colonized by another nation, but without realizing it, many are experiencing a new form of colonization. Not by iron chains, but by screens, notifications, social media, likes, and various digital devices. Technology is not actually something bad. Technology helps us work, study, communicate, and even listen to sermons and read the Bible. However, the problem arises when the tools we are supposed to master begin to master our lives. When you wake up, what is the first thing you look for? God or your mobile phone? Do you pray and read the Word first, or do you immediately check messages and social media? Not everything that is permissible will be useful for our lives. Something that is initially good can enslave our lives if we lose self-control. There are many people who start measuring themselves through the number of likes, comments, followers, and attention on social media. When they get many responses, they feel accepted. When they are ignored, they feel worthless. Yet, the value of our lives is not determined by human judgment. We are precious because we were created in the image of God and have been redeemed by Christ. Our identity does not come from social media, but from God. Let us be honest with ourselves; when we sit together at the dinner table, what do we do? Many people now live and are busy with their own screens. We have many friends on social media but feel lonely because we don't have someone who truly listens to our stories in the real world. We are faster at giving an emoji than a hug. We find it easier to write a comment than to listen with full attention. Sometimes the simplest form of love is to put down our gadgets, look someone in the eye, listen to their story, and be fully present for them. Jesus said: “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36. True freedom is not the liberty to do whatever we want. True freedom is the ability to say “no” to things that begin to control our lives. Therefore, we need to learn to manage our use of technology. Start your morning with God before opening social media. Take time to fast from gadgets. Put down your phone when eating or talking with family. Guard your eyes and mind from content that does not build you up, and without you realizing it, your life will begin to be liberated. In this month of independence, let us not only celebrate the nation's independence, but also experience freedom in Christ. True freedom is not when we can open anything we want, but when we have the strength to close things that do not build us up. Let us return to God, to family, and to a real life. Do not let screens control our lives. Christ has set us free so that we truly live as free people.