ON July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was presented and proclaimed its foundation in this way: “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.” Note that phrase, “endowed by their Creator.” With all their faults and all the shadows that loom over their private lives, these men recognized the true Source of life and liberty is God alone. This was the birth of the greatest nation in human history.
In the last full paragraph of that Declaration, the framers stated, “We therefore…appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions…” Are you familiar with that word, ‘rectitude?’ Its definitions are “quality or state of being straight; moral integrity; and the quality or state of being correct in judgment.” Throughout the process, these flawed men sought the wisdom of God. Then, by their signatures on the document, each pledged their “lives, fortunes, and sacred honor” to birth a new nation. The cost of that freedom was 50,000 patriot lives, each a precious sacrifice.
Freedom has never been free. It requires sacrifice, perseverance, and discipline. It must be tempered with responsibility and mutual respect. Freedom flows from the hearts of people, not from the seats of governments. Freedom should never be taken lightly. We are privileged to live in the United States of America. Despite our flaws, failings, and divisions, people from around the world still dream of being in America. They come from around the world legally and illegally, but often for the same reasons – freedom, hope, and opportunity.
Today, our porous borders give opportunity to those who would do us harm. We watch with disbelief as our cultural values are diluted, our faith in a Sovereign God is ridiculed, and our governmental entities no longer operate on a Judeo-Christian foundation. What should we be doing?
Well, we still have a responsibility to be the “salt of the earth and lights of the world.” I am sure that God for those who are called by His Name to humble ourselves and pray and seek Him and turn from our own wickedness. According to the apostle Paul, we are now strangers and aliens ourselves since our citizenship is in Heaven. He also tells us that we are now ambassadors for Christ in a world that is not our home. We must represent the Lord Jesus in a world that grows darker by the day. How?
Be good citizens, respect everyone, love our fellow disciples, and always honor God and the appointed authority. We can fervently pray for our leaders, our fellow disciples, and the lost. One more thing! Strive to be like Jesus.
Check out these verses! Timothy 2:1-4; Philippians 1:27; 2 Chronicles 7:13-15 Matthew 7:12; Romans 13:1-7
