Reflection on July 4th United States Independence Day 2024

On Independence Day, let’s express gratitude for the blessings we enjoy, life, pursuit of happiness, and the freedom we experience in this great nation. We also appreciate those who secure our freedom, ensuring its continuity throughout the years. To many, the Independence Day holiday simply means a day off of work, fireworks, and barbecues. But it’s clear that many are thinking more deeply about the holiday this year. This Fourth of July, Americans are grappling with an intense period of political and social unrest. Political decisions that can affect every American from women’s rights and the worrisome election coming up. The supreme court recently made decisions that could affect us to be a country where we are able to celebrate a true independence day as we know it now. It is scary. So, as we get ready to remember and reflect on our independence day we need to remember those who have sacrificed so much that has allowed us to be able to celebrate. We cannot let those sacrifices be in vain.  

On the day we still have the freedom to approach God through faith in Christ. Ephesians 3:12 tells us that we can confidently speak our minds to God, expressing our joys, sorrows, doubts, and dreams. Reflect on this invitation: the God who created the universe invites you to share your heart with Him.

The collect for Independence day from the lectionary says a lot. We need to pray the words and truly ask for God’s guidance. Lord God Almighty, in whose Name the founders of this country won liberty for themselves and for us and lit the torch of freedom for nations then unborn: Grant that we and all the people of this land may have grace to maintain our liberties in righteousness and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.