Imagine you are on the Mayflower.  It is 1620.  A king that controls every aspect of your life has terrorized you.  You realize the voyage is dangerous, yet freedom is worth the effort.  If you die, you die, but that is better than tyranny.  You arrive on the new shores of this land with promise and expectations.

            You begin to build and develop a country.  The Mayflower Compact states:  “In the name of God, Amen, Having undertaken for the Glory of God and advancement of the Christian faith…do…solemnly and mutually in the presence of God… covenant and combine ourselves together…”.  You proceeded with hardships.  You persevered with “blood, sweat and tears.”  Still you persisted.  You faced illnesses, bitter winters and a scarcity of food.  You endured many situations with sacrifices.

            The Declaration of Independence – 1776 cites four specific references to the dependence of our nation on God: “…the laws of Nature and of Nature’s God…”

“…that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights…”  “…appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions…”  “…with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence…”

            Your descendants carry on.  They too, realize life without freedom is no life at all.

You have raised many leaders who have acknowledged the source of your strength.  George Washington has been quoted as saying, “It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible.”  Abraham Lincoln notes, “The times are dark, the spirits of ruin are abroad in all their power, and the mercy of God alone can save us.”

            Yes, you America have encountered many conflicts.  With strong faith you prevailed.  You face conflicts today, within and without.  Dark clouds loom as evil seems to dominate.  Yet there remains in this nation a people who have inherited the strength and courage of those founding fathers and the early settlers.  They have accomplished this by seeking the same divine wisdom our forefathers sought.  They are red-blooded Americans who take a stand for righteousness, honesty, integrity and love of God and country.  They bounce back in difficulties.  They revere God and keep his commandments, and yes they also look to the needs of others.  (Philippians 2:4)

            America, we love you.  You have provided hope and freedom to the teeming masses.  That welcome knowledge has brought many opportunities for a blessed life.

            On this Fourth of July we honor you.  We celebrate freedom and have gratitude for the guidance of a loving God who has guided and kept you through the years.

            We say, “Let freedom ring though out this day and every day.  While we are celebrating, may we count our many blessings by living in America.

            May we realize, “One song can spark a moment.  One flower can wake the dream.  One tree can start a forest.  One bird can herald spring.  One smile begins a friendship.  One handclasp lifts a soul.  One star can guide a ship at sea.  One word can frame the goal.  One vote can change a nation.  One sunbeam lights a room.  One candle wipes out darkness.  One laugh will conquer gloom.  One step must start each journey.  One word must start a prayer.  One hope will raise our spirits.  One touch can show you care.  One voice can speak with wisdom.  One heart can know what’s true.  One life can make the difference.  You see it’s up to YOU!  Don’t ever forget how very important you are.”

(Written by an anonymous author)

            Thank you America that even one person can make a difference in this nation

and it is a privilege to live here.

            Let the flags wave.  Let the proud sing with hands over hearts.

            God bless America, the Beautiful!