Independence Day

Ah independence day. But independence from what. At a time like this it is important to remember why we are America, and by who’s might. America was first colonized as a religious refuge, to establish a church were people could worship God freely. The vast majority of early pilgrims built colonies founded on their belief in the Lord Jesus Christ. It was an era where people were escaping religious persecution by traveling to this new found land. As America declared it’s freedom they were also declaring war against England, which was at that time the most powerful of all nations. It would have appeared to the entire world that we had signed our own death sentence by committing high treason. America’s army was new, untrained and outnumbered. Yet we prevailed. Why? Was it because we were so passionate, and fought so hard? Passion only would not be enough against such incredible odds. There are a great many revolutionary battles that document the invisible hand of God showing us that through our forefathers bravery and zeal and by the miraculous power of God that we won, and exist as a free nation today. In 1787 Benjamin Franklin is quoted saying “In the beginning of the contest with G. Britain, when we were sensible of danger, we had daily prayer in this room for the Divine protection — Our prayers, Sir, were heard, and they were graciously answered. … I have lived, Sir, a long time; and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth, that God governs the affairs of men!” it is Americas success in allowing it’s citizens to worship God freely that has paved the way for hundreds of other nations to hold the same principles about religious persecution. Let’s not only celebrate the Americans who fought for our freedom, let’s celebrate God who gave us the freedom and the victory. One Nation, Under God.