Independence Day

   “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage!”  (Psalm 33: 12)

   Today we celebrate our Independence Day.  Much has happened in these United States since that declaration.  Many argue about whether it has been good or bad.  In fact there has been some of both, but on balance we have, as a people and a nation, generated much more good than evil.  We need to remember and celebrate the good while we remember and learn from the evil.

   The true Independence Day occurred over two thousand years ago on a hill outside Jerusalem.  On that day our Lord, Jesus Christ, declared our independence from Satan.  He paid the debt for our sins and offered salvation to all who would believe.  In His love and mercy He asked the Father to forgive even those who had nailed Him to the Cross.

   Our country is in the throws of a society that has turned from God.  We ignore His laws and His ways, choosing instead the selfishness and pride instilled in us by Satan.  If Christ were to walk among us, I believe He would again be crucified for pointing out our failings.  A few would believe and accept Him, but many would condemn Him as He was condemned over two thousand years ago.

   I fear that we are destined for punishment if we continue to walk the path of immorality.  There are choices that must be made if this nation is to survive.  We can return to God and again receive His blessings, or we can follow the path of Satan to the gates of Hell.

   On this Fourth of July, let’s declare our freedom once again.  Freedom from sin through the mercy of God.  Freedom to live in His will, to do His works.  The freedom to choose the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and join them in eternal happiness and joy.

Lord on this Independence Day

May we declare our freedom from sin.

May we return to Your ways,

May we follow Your will in all things.

Amen