It is a holiday mostly known as the 4th of July but should be known and celebrated as Independence Day. July 4th is the day that we celebrate our independence.

The real reason for this day is much more than fireworks, parades, picnics, camping trips, fun on the water, and family cookouts. Two hundred forth-eight years ago on July 4th, our forefathers, who were Godly men, relied on Him for His grace and protection as they signed the Declaration of Independence proclaiming our independence from the rule of Great Britain. It is America’s Independence Day. That is what it should be known as. 

Our independence did not come easy. Only after several years of war would it finally be won. Our first years as a nation were not free from problems and controversies. That is still true today. But, our forefathers were determined to establish a free and democratic system of government, and the Declaration of Independence became the foundation for this. It has stood the test of time. On July 4th, we should give thanks for their wisdom, faith, and courage.

It should also be a time we pause to honor those who served or are serving our country so we can enjoy the freedoms we have. Because of them we can come to Sac River Cowboy Church and worship as we please.

Sadly, a lot of people have forgotten what Independence Day truly means. I am not even sure that it is taught in our schools anymore. Like other holidays, marketing campaigns to sell us things hide the real reason for the season.

Although it is not a religious holiday like Christmas and Easter, Christians should reflect on God’s goodness to us as a nation. Former President Ronald Reagan once said, “If we ever forget that we are one nation under God, then we will be a nation gone under.” Look with gratitude to the past this Independence Day, and thank God we live in America