Historical context: Many soldiers and families may take off and/or have off a day or two over the next few days as part of America’s national Independence Day holiday. So, I thought it appropriate to reflect upon how much we owe our forebearers, especially those who, as is written in our Declaration of Independence, pledged to one another [thei]r Lives, [thei]r Fortunes and [thei]r sacred Honor.” There are many who are serving in difficult environments, separated from those they love and who love them. Remember them, as you enjoy your burgers and dogs and beverages. Maybe pick up a volume of history, and learn about those who served with honor. Maybe send a letter/email/text to a military member or veteran or his/her family. It doesn’t take much to touch someone.

I love it when I see military installations across our nation with the U.S. flag displayed, and when I drive home on weekends, I love seeing it when it’s displayed properly from people’s private residences. The colors of the flag are laden with symbolism we should know and appreciate, as are the number of stars and stripes.

Text: In Scripture, we are told “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage!” (Psalm 33:12, ESV)

Encouragement/takeaway: Freedom of religion is a staggeringly crucial American freedom. We are free to believe as we will. But as for me and my household, we desire the blessing of the Lord. On this Independence Day weekend, my prayer is that my whole nation would seek blessing from God, not independence from Him.