Independence Day ought to be commemorated as the Day of Deliverance
by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. – John Adams

For many Americans, the 4^th of July is an exciting holiday celebrated with gatherings of family and friends, cookouts, parades with flags waving, and fireworks. We rarely think about it as a day when we remember and honor the courageous founders of our country who signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Do we consider the actual impact of this day on our lives? And do we think about what the words independence and freedom mean to us?

This year we are especially mindful of how many people don’t have freedom and how much pain and suffering are present in our world. We hear the sad news of people trying to cross the borders into the USA and other countries from their homelands where parents fear for their children’s lives. We are aware that there are thousands and thousands of people in refugee camps who are trying to flee the torture and killings in their countries all over the world. I personally remember how un-free and un-independent I felt over the years when I was forced to stay in hospitals, rehab centers, nursing homes, and in my own home fighting for my life. I know there are thousands of people who find themselves in that kind of situation too.

Yes, when we are fortunate to have freedom and independence, we might be a bit guilty of taking that for granted. Each year after the celebration of the 4^th of July, I try to ponder the significance of Independence Day and its meaning for my life. I find it helpful to consider the words written by John Adams, one of the founders of our country. Adams wrote these very moving and poignant words to his wife Abigail on July 3, 1776. I believe his words can help us put the true meaning of Independence Day into perspective. (This is the exact text from his letter.) “The Second Day of July 1776, will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. It ought to be commemorated as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty.” (The Book of Abigail and John: Selected Letters of the Adams Family, 1762-84)

Those words speak volumes to us. Perhaps as John Adams stated, we should remember Independence Day as a “Day of Deliverance” and celebrate it with solemn acts of devotion to God. We have so much to be grateful for, so many freedoms, so many choices, so many blessings. Life can be truly abundant, if we choose to be open to it. May we celebrate and honor our liberation, our freedom, our blessings through gratitude and prayer.

* How did you celebrate Independence Day this year? And what about in the future?

* What are some of your blessings and freedoms that you are grateful for? 

Beloved Creator, we thank you for creating us as your children in this amazing world. Thank you so much for the gifts of freedom, of liberty, of life. May we not take them for granted. May we celebrate our “independence” and our “freedom” with solemn acts of devotion to You, our God Almighty. Amen.

Joy Carol
www.joycarol.com