This Saturday is the 4th of July and the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence. Every American citizen who has lived during the past 250 years have our founding fathers to thank. They had a vision of independence, strength to endure criticism and courage to never give up the dream of democracy. These are all blessings we are beneficiaries of.

Like most of you, I have traditional thoughts and memories of this holiday. Eating hamburgers off the grill, potato salad and homemade apple pie with vanilla ice cream are just a few. Our family tradition was attending the local professional baseball game and after the game, watching the glorious fireworks show while listening to patriotic songs like the Star Spangled Banner and America the Beautiful. Every year, a few tears would escape my eyes and trail down my cheeks. 

The freedoms we live with may not be thought about on a daily basis. It’s the lifestyle we know. It’s what we are used to. But for me, one freedom I never take for granted is my right to believe in God and practice my beliefs in public. We have the privilege to worship God. We have multiple choices of religions in which to express our worship. This is such a gift. Sadly, even in this 21st century, there are places in the world this fundamental right is forbidden.

When I was in elementary school, every morning we all stood, placed our right hand over our heart, faced the flag prominently displayed in the classroom and recited the Pledge of Allegiance. “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands one Nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.” These are such valuable words that hold so much meaning.

We do have a beautiful country from “sea to shining sea”. And this Saturday I will say a prayer of thanksgiving for the men and women who fought for her independence and for all those who continue to defend her today. 

I wish you all a celebratory 4th of July holiday. May God bless you, your loved ones and God bless America.

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” 2 Corinthians 3:17 (NIV)

“Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God.” 1 Peter 2:16 (NIV)