Gratitude, Faith and Independence

We call it Independence Day but on July 4th 1776, what it really was is a great leap of faith in a journey that stunned the world. It has been 243 years of freedom, and while it may not seem like a long time, it’s important to remember that at one point in history before the Bill of Rights, this country was a place where immigrants searched for a fair government and freedom to practice their religion. The Founding Fathers created a government based on biblical truths. It was our second president John Adams that said that Christianity was the bedrock upon which this great nation was built.

It has been historically established without a doubt that America was founded by moral and religious people and was intended to be a nation that was guided by the same type of people who would defend and support the same basic principles our Fathers established; freedom, peace and religious liberty. However, this could not have been possible with out faith and dependence upon God. After all, we are “One Nation Under God”. 

This is not to say that Independence Day is a religious holiday like Easter or Christmas but for many people July 4th is a celebration of God’s love for everyone as a nation. It’s a time to reflect and be grateful for the good things we have and most importantly for the freedom we enjoy every day, it should not be taken for granted. 

This 4th of July lets celebrate and enjoy our families, food, fireworks and all the traditional activities that makes this day feel so special. Lets also remember all of the sacrifices that were made so we could enjoy our freedom today and lastly, let us pray for all of those who continue to fight and protect our freedom. 

Dear God, we are grateful for your abundant blessings. Please let your spirit be with us today and hear our prayers. Help us strengthen our faith to overcome challenging times, help us use the opportunities of our democracy to shape a more respectful society, one that is unselfishly willing to defend life, dignity and human rights and honor the proposition that all people are created equal. We pray so you may grant wisdom to the leaders of all nations so they find ways to bring peace and freedom to their people. Please fill us with your love this and every day so we can show gratitude and kindness to all. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Blessed is the nation whose God is theLord, the people he chose for his inheritance. Psalm 33:12