Office Chair Races . . . ever seen 'em?

This week Americans will celebrate Independence Day, 'Fourth of July', and commemorate America's independence from Great Britain's tyranny. The day's beginnings are documented in the pages of history, in a letter written by John Adams to his wife, Abigail:

 

 

 

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The committee chosen to draft a declaration of independence for the 13 North American British colonies is shown at work in this 19th century engraving. The five members are, from left, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Philip Livingston and Roger Sherman. On July 1, 1776, the committee submitted their draft to the Continental Congress, which voted on July 2 for final separation, and approved and formally adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4. (AP Photo)2

 

That's how it all began, and we are still celebrating today.  In my town, silly celebrations like office chair races, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-bM2Yl-b4A, and cook-offs take place.  And the beaches on either side of San Clemente Pier, as far as the eye can see, are like colorful checkerboard quilts of towels and umbrellas--space at a premium!  Of course, fireworks are shot from the pier about 9 pm, where nearby town displays are visible as well.  Some years I have seen as many as six displays at one time.

 

This is a day set aside to celebrate our independence ... from what, and for what?  Originally, Europeans made their way to our shores to escape religious persecution and tyranny.  For the most part, we are able to worship God freely in America. [Thank you, God!]  And yet, it seems we have taken that freedom for granted, doesn't it?  I am so thankful I can worship God freely, brandish my Bible anywhere, and speak of my faith openly without using hushed tones.  I do not want to ever take this freedom for granted-so I pray for our country and our president and elected officials, and that people will be drawn to the truths of the gospel, the Lord we love. 

 

We lift our country before you on Independence Day.

I think of one who looked to you and said, "This I recall to my mind,therefore I have hope. 

        Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed,

               because his compassions fail not. 

                      They are new every morning;great is your faithfulness."3

Yes, God, you are faithful, and on that we stand! 

 

God, we too want to pray confidently for your steadfast love and mercy to us - in all areas of our lives.  Please, God, draw our citizens' hearts and minds to your truth and great love.  May they seek You - someone higher than themselves. May our leaders - our president, senate and congress be humbled and turn to you.

 

Lord, increase our faith in you because

                                    You are the God on the throne, and

    'You cause all things to work together for good to those who love you;'4

            increase our love for you, and indeed show us how to love you more! 

 

 

We pray these things in the powerful, mighty name of Jesus, AMEN.  So be it.

Happy Independence Day!

PastorWoman.com 

 

 

1 John Adams, a lawyer and the first Vice President of the United States, second President,  https://www.masshist.org/digitaladams/archive/doc?id=L17760703jasecond

2 https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/answer-sheet/wp/2017/07/02/why-...

3 - Lamentations 3.21-23

4 - Romans 8.28