The United States of America turns 247 years old on July 4, 2023. That’s a long time for a nation to remain free. But, when you look at our history in the context of world history America is just a child among the nations. Egypt, China, Japan, England, and Greece all make America’s history seem short.
We are so young, and yet we stand tall among these nations because of the principles on which we were established: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.”
It is good for us to celebrate freedom and liberty & I celebrate today with you the freedoms which God has blessed this great nations of ours.
However, let me temper our celebrations with a caution: With freedom comes great responsibility. We are not free to live excessive lives. We are not set at liberty to pursue selfish ends. Our independence should not make us infidels. As Paul so eloquently puts it: “You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature.”
What is true for the church is true for the nation: Liberty demands civility. Freedom requires righteous behavior. On this Independence Day, we celebrate both freedom and civility.
With Love,
Mike