FOR GOD AND COUNTRY

“I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of indepedence, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.” – John Adams.

Happy Fourth of July. This weekend, Americans from sea to shining sea will gather family, friends, and neighbors to celebrate their liberty with cookouts and local festivities. Fireworks will be painted overhead on a canvas of clear night sky. This favorite day of summer allows people from all backgrounds to celebrate the precious freedoms and opportunities we enjoy in this country.

And while it’s important to be with family and friends on this day, it’s also good to reflect on why we’re celebrating. Our early forebears left England for the unfamiliar shores of America mainly because they were unhappy under the tyranny of religious persecution. Since those dawning years of our country, many others have migrated for the same reason. They gave up everything for the right to freely worship God here.

It is important to remember that our American liberty is a blessing from God. Because of our freedom, we can express our faith and boldly share it with others. It is important to recognize that in many other parts of the world, this is not the case. The cost of following Christ is much greater for our brothers and sisters across the globe.

We should not lose sight of why we celebrate Independence Day. Take time to reflect on the ways God has blessed you in your life. As you spend this day with family and friends, celebrate the blessing of freedom given to us by Christ. This is something we should never take for granted; we should never stop thanking God for establishing this country with such freedoms.

This July 4th, as we celebrate fireworks and wave flags, may we also pause to reflect on our nation’s heritage. As the festivities end and the last trails of smoke glide across the summer night sky, take a moment to thank God for all our freedom allows solemnly.

May God help us to begin today, this 247th celebration of our independence.

Discussion Questions:

1. How will a “blessed” nation look if it honors God?
2. How does this play out in your home, job/school, and community?
3. Pray for our nation and the nations around the world.