Happy 250th Birthday, America

By Pastor Mark McAdow
Can you believe? We’re 250 years young. Yes – young! That’s a brief time for a nation in the scheme of world history. It’s obvious that we have been blessed by our Heavenly Father. We declared together two weeks ago in worship this great truth, “I am loved by my Heavenly Father.”  And you really are! “We loved because He first loved us.”- I John 4:19
 
I love America. I love the ideals on which it was founded and its historical Judeo-Christian principles found in God’s Holy Word. I don’t believe America is perfect, but there’s no other place I know on earth with greater freedoms, opportunities and hope! This weekend we celebrate our Independence from tyranny, as well as our myriads of personal freedoms. Jesus reminds us: “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free!” – John 8:31b-32
 
Freedom isn’t free. Brave men and women have sacrificed much for the freedoms we enjoy – many gave their very lives to keep us free. We owe much to Almighty God and our faithful American soldiers who continue to serve us every day all over the world. We are blessed to be Americans. Many people around the world would love to have the opportunities and freedoms we often take for granted.
 
Psalms 133:1 says, “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity.”  We know how divided our nation currently is by politics, race, immigration, education, healthcare, gender issues, economics and so much more! We desperately need unity of commitment to one another as Americans. We will not all agree on all topics, but we must give one another the freedom to express our views in a safe environment. We must find some common ground – common respect for one another once again in America. Why? So, we won’t self-destruct as a nation but continue to seek life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Psalms 133:3 concludes by saying, “For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.”  Isn’t that what we’re ultimately after? The life the Lord Jesus described in John 10:10 – “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.”  Real life and real freedom are found in Jesus Christ!
 
Come join us this Sunday, July 5, for one worship aervice at 10:00 a.m. in our sanctuary and our annual Willow View family picnic immediately following inside in our Family Life Center, served by members of our Congregational Care Committee led by Evelyn Allen.  We have a special surprise for all who attend!
 
Love you,
Pastor Mark
 
PS: Have a safe and fun 250th birthday celebration. Casual patriotic dress this Sunday. See you here!

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