Celebrating Independence Day
As we are preparing cookouts, excited about a holiday from work, and fireworks, let’s take a moment of reflection on the significance of Independence Day from the lens of Jesus.
On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence, stating that the American colonies was officially independent from Great Britian; no longer under its rulership. Although the original colonists sought religious freedom from British persecution, we need to remember that slavery was tragically pervasive in every colony. Nevertheless, the Declaration pronounced that “all men are created equal.” As we celebrate independence, pause for a moment and remember those who are still enslaved for whatever reason and remember we are to walk in love. In Christ, we are loved unconditionally, been granted freedom, liberty and great responsibilities to love others.
Gratitude for Freedom
As Americans, we are blessed to live in a country that values freedom and democracy. As believers in Jesus, our true freedom comes only in our relationship with Jesus Christ. Galatians 5:1 states “Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.” Let us thank God for setting us free from bondage through Jesus’ victory and the liberty He purchased through His shed blood.
Responsibility of Freedom
Freedom empowers us to have greater responsibility. As citizens of both America and most importantly, the kingdom of God, we are called to use our freedom to glorify God and love others. Galatians 5:13 NKJV says “ For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” Our liberty in Jesus is actually a call to a higher level of love in which we set aside selfish ambition, humble ourselves, and serve one another as Christ served us.
Unity in Diversity
On Independence Day, we have a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the unity we have as all being created in the image and likeness of God with our unique, diverse attributes. God calls us to be unified in our faith in Jesus, saying,
“Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.” Ephesians 4:3. Rather than divide as a body, this is a day to celebrate uniqueness and seek to be at peace, in unity, with all people.
Prayer for America
Father, thank you that we live in America and for birthing this nation to be a place where “all men are equal.” We ask you to give our local, state and national leaders wisdom and seek to serve Your people. We pray for peace, justice and wisdom for those in authority that we may seek God’s leadership and guidance as we desire to be a light in the darkness. We also thank you for the uniqueness in each and every person in this nation and ask that we see each and every person as Your child. We want to learn to love as You have so extravagantly loved us. Help our love for You and others be the light that drives out all darkness. Thank You for knitting us together in love as a spiritual family. Father, we also decree protection, safety and Your love over Your people. Thank You for showing us mercy when we were without hope and setting us free. We ask that this is a new day for this nation where liberty prevails in Spirit and truth in Jesus’ name.
In conclusion, thank you for the freedom you have entrusted to us and the liberty we have in Jesus Christ. Holy Spirit, show us how we can use that liberty to love and serve others, seeing others through Your eyes. Thank You for Your faithfulness in Jesus’ name.
Have a blessed Independence Day!