On this 4th of July, Happy Independence Day!
As we celebrate the 238th anniversary of the year of our young nation's birth, my thoughts drift to the words of President John Adams, who in a letter to his wife Abigail remarked of the occasion that
"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."
I agree- and may fireworks rain down from sea to shining sea as we celebrate our freedom and independence.
My prayer, however, is that we as a nation lift up "freedom isn't free" as much more than a pithy saying- and that we also pause to give thanks- both for the men whose lives are represented by the golden stars of the WWII Memorial below and others who likewise paid the ultimate price for it, as well as for those whose sight lines toward any sort of rocket's red glare was obstructed by an altogether different kind of bombs bursting in air.
President Adams continued his letter to Mrs. Adams, saying that
"I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means."
May God continue to bless America- and in the words of a nearby church sign here, may America bless God. May our Lord continue to provide us with men and women brave enough to run toward what so many run from. On this day and every day, may He show us both mercy and favor- continuing to supply us with men and women both physically and mentally courageous- in order that we remain free.
On this 4th of July, Happy Independence Day!
On this 4th of July, Happy Independence Day!
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