By Staff
I love the United States. I am proud to be living in this country. Today we are celebrating the 228th birthday of the "land of the free" and the "home of the brave." Many of us no doubt will be cooking out and spending time with our families. We have so many things for which to be thankful.
Many people are quick to share what is wrong with our country. And, granted, there are things that need to be fixed, but it is still the greatest country on earth. As we think about our country today, I want to share with you a few reasons why I love the United States of America.
First, it is the land of opportunity. Everyone has the opportunity to do great things in this country. You have the opportunity to be whatever you want to be. You don't have to worry about someone else telling what you will do or where you will go. For the person willing to make the sacrifice, the opportunities are endless.
Second, we have the freedom and responsibility of choosing our own leaders. No one can go to Washington and take over. We are not under a dictator. If we don't like our leaders we have the privilege and responsibility of replacing them with others of our own choosing.
Third, we have a strong national defense. I thank God every day for those who have given their lives for the protecting of the freedoms that I enjoy. We have many, even from our own area, who are still in the heat of battle. I saw a bumper sticker that said, "If you can read this, thank a teacher. If you are reading it in English, thank a soldier." Thank you soldiers for all you have done and continue to do to keep our country free.
Fourth, we have the freedom to worship. We have the privilege of gathering together each week to worship and lift up praises to the One who gives us true freedom. Galatians 5:1 says, "Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free." True freedom and true liberty can only be realized in a relationship with Jesus Christ.
We have been granted physical freedom by the laws of our country. In the same way we can only be given spiritual freedom through Jesus Christ. It is my prayer today that each of us will come to know true freedom as we live in the greatest nation on earth. Have a safe and joyous holiday.