By DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills
On July 4th, our country celebrates its 250th birthday.
Many of us have planned and prayed about how we should commemorate July 4th, a milestone in American history. We look forward to gathering with family and friends for traditional celebrations. The day represents not only red, white, and blue flags with bursts of colorful fireworks, but also an opportunity for a sobering reflection on our nation’s history.
The freedom we commemorate on the Fourth of July shapes us in stages throughout our lives. Our appreciation deepens as we mature and become more discerning in how we view our nation and the world around us.
When we were children, we learned about freedom and what it meant from our parents, teachers, movies, books, and parades. Reflecting on how that celebrated freedom impacted me then, I confess my focus centered more on fireworks, parades, barbecues, picnics, and family traditions. Fun, food, and entertainment captured my attention.
Throughout our country’s history, brave men and women have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Others returned home bearing physical wounds and lifelong emotional scars. Those sacrifices continue today. Because of sacrifices made throughout history, we enjoy freedom of religion, freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, the right to a fair trial, and many other liberties protected by our Constitution.
The definition of freedom takes me back to our country’s history and the price paid through the years to preserve the principles embodied in the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Those documents affirm and protect the rights of every citizen in our nation.
Our Founding Fathers, along with generations of political and military leaders, have inspired me to value and respect our country’s freedoms.
The passing years have made me increasingly aware of how easily freedoms can be lost or diminished. We all need the protections afforded by our Constitution. We may not agree on policies, decisions, or procedures, but we are united in each person’s right to express opinions and engage in respectful dialogue.
Now, as I look back on many Fourth of July celebrations, I am humbled by my respect for all who have gone before me. I commit to praying for our current and future leaders to have wisdom, discernment, and courage. Just as we grow physically, mentally, and spiritually, we can also deepen our appreciation for our country’s freedoms.
I encourage you to read the Bill of Rights and the Constitution. Perhaps you will take time to consider what freedom means to you and offer a prayer of gratitude for the blessings we enjoy.
What is your definition of freedom?
Living without fear, based on our four freedoms.
Thank you for the links to the Bill of Rights and the Constitution. We do owe a lot to those who came before. Some principles came from the Magna Carta (and ideas from John Locke, for example).
It’s good we are learning as a nation. Have a great 4th!
Because our Constitution guarantees certain inalienable rights, we often forget the principles applied to create such a Constitutional Republic. Those principles, found and applied nowhere else in the world, are Biblically based. With all the hubbub concerning freedom, liberty, and independence, we often forget the Reformation Christian principles come from a God whose Word is final. That’s why one particular founder suggests our form of government is fit for a Christian nation and no other. If we are not dependent upon God, as in II Chron 7:14, our nation spirals down away from the precepts already established. That indicates it’s not the form of government needing a change, but rather the hearts of the Christians. We have the right to pray privately to get right with God and closer to Him. That freedom is what will bring America back to its roots.
Author
Warren, that is so beautifully said. Let us all never lose sight of the power of prayer. God Bless America
Before living overseas as the daughter of a Navy daddy, and later as the wife of an Air Force husband, the love of America was seen and taught at an early age. The sacrifices of men and women through generations gives us the freedom to worship, write stories, travel, and all the wonderful freedoms you shared. Happy 250th birthday, America!
Thank you, DiAnn. Thank You, Jesus.
4 July always reminds me of the ultimate sacrifice that was made by Jesus. The incredible humility it takes to set aside your rights, your dignity as Almighty God and willingly embrace suffering and death on behalf of others! I wonder if every soldier who has died for America has felt this kinship with Jesus in a very special way.
Author
Judith, I love the analogy. Love is sacrifice, and it’s never about us. Thank you.
Judith,
You share a unique perspective that has gotten me thinking of July 4th in a new light. Thank you!
“Because of sacrifices made throughout history, we enjoy freedom of religion, freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, the right to a fair trial, and many other liberties protected by our Constitution.” Even in the midst of chaos & division, THIS is what we all need to remember on this 250th celebration of our nation’s birth. Cut out the noise, remember the gift we’ve been given. Thanks for sharing this.
Author
Kristine, Yes, let’s cut the noise and unite on things that matter. Thanks!