Galatians 4:22-24, 26-27, 31 - 5:1 / Luke 11:29-32
As human beings, we desire for independence and freedom. Even as babies, we would want to take the first step on our own towards whatever direction we want to go.
And with that we want to experience the freedom that we gain from our independence.
Yet if independence and freedom is understood in a warped way, then it would result in warped actions.
Because with independence and freedom comes greater responsibility and accountability. There will be no one to fight your battles for you and you can't push the blame on anyone else for something you did wrong.
Yes the price of independence and freedom is constant vigilance and alertness in case we go astray and end up doing something crazy.
The 1st reading said that when Christ freed us, He meant us to remain free. The reading also urged us to stand firm and not to submit again to the yoke of slavery.
To remain free would mean for us to remain in Christ and to belong to Him and committed to Him.
Without Christ, we can do nothing and we would also end up as nothing.
We have seen enough of signs to tell us that people who want to go their way without God won't be able to find peace and joy that easily.
Yes the price of independence and freedom is to stand by Jesus and depend on Him totally. That is hardly a price at all.