July 4

    This coming Sunday is the set aside time to celebrate the “birth” of our nation.  For over two hundred years our nation has stood as a testament to personal liberty and freedom from oppression.   We are a nation that has championed the cause of freedom around the world, sending our brave men and women into combat in foreign lands, defending the rights of others to live in the same freedoms we possess.

    Much of what we enjoy today as Americans is the direct favor of Father God.  For whatever reasons He has chosen to favor us as a nation, and we have lived in the abundance of His blessing.  While we celebrate those who were instrumental in the founding of our nation, and those who have sacrificed much for our freedom, our greatest debt of gratitude is owed to our Heavenly Father.

     To whom much is given, much is required.  We are the “slave” in Jesus parable that was entrusted by his master with the largest amount of money.  We have been given much, that we might invest faithfully in the lives of others, and allow the Father to receive an abundant return on His investment.  Let us celebrate July fourth with much thanksgiving, and a determined resolve to honor our Father with faithful living.