Independence Day

     "The fourth of July, also known as Independence Day, has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941, but the tradition of Independence Day celebrations goes back to the 18th century and the American Revolution.  On July 2nd, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of Independence, and two days later delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, a historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson.  From 1776 to the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, with festivities ranging from fireworks, parades and concerts to more casual family gatherings and barbecues."

This fourth of July will no doubt be quite different this year because of the virus restrictions, and it is easy to see the validity of Proverbs 14:34 --
     "Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people."  Our founding fathers paid a tremendous price to give us the freedoms we have enjoyed (and, too often, taken for granted)!
Perhaps it would be good for us to pause today and sing this wonderful patriotic hymn -- "God of Our Fathers"!

     "This hymn represents a double celebration of America's 100th birthday.  The words were written in 1876 by a New England pastor in honor of the 100th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.  The music was written twelve years later in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the adoption of the United States Constitution.  Daniel Roberts, a 34 year old veteran of the Civil War, authored the words.  George Warren, a self-taught organist, composed the stately tune with its     trumpet fanfares.  He eventually became one of America's premier organists.  When he died in 1902, there was a feeling that no organist could play as well as he could, so not a single note of music was played at his funeral, which was attended by thousands."

     "God of our fathers, whose almighty hand
Leads forth in beauty all the starry band
      Of shining worlds in splendor through the skies,
Our grateful songs before Thy throne arise.

      Thy love divine hath led us in the past.
In this free land--by Thee our lot is cast.
      Be Thou our Ruler, Guardian, Guide, and Stay,
Thy Word our law, Thy paths our chosen way.

      From war's alarms, from deadly pestilence,
Be Thy strong arm our ever sure defense.
      Thy true religion in our hearts increase;
Thy bounteous goodness nourish us in peace.

      Refresh Thy people on their toilsome way.
Lead us from night to never ending day.
      Fill all our lives with love and grace divine;
And glory, laud, and praise be ever Thine."  Amen!