The High Price of Independence

Maybe it is just me, but I get a tear in my eye when I sing the Star Spangled Banner. I stand just a little taller when I say the Pledge of Allegiance. I count myself fortunate to live in these United States of America. Even with all of her faults, I still believe She is the best country in the world.

I think sometimes we fail to realize how very fortunate we are as Americans. I know we neglect, even as we grill our hamburgers and enjoy our day off, to remember the immeasurable cost of this freedom we enjoy. Men and women gave their lives to free us, and men and women freely give their lives even today to maintain that independence.

So, on this Independence Day as I listen to the fireworks that celebrate our freedom, I would like to remember the brave men and women who have fought and died for me and for my family. I want to thank the members of our Armed Services who protect those freedoms at great cost to themselves and their loved ones. I want the mothers and fathers, the husbands and wives, the brothers and sisters, and the children of all those servicemen and women to know that we, your country, thank you for the sacrifices that you make for us. I appreciate you and all that you do. America would not be America were it not for men and women just like you.

On this day of freedom I pray that someday we will all enjoy the ultimate freedom offered to us through Christ Jesus as we celebrate our independence from the bondage of the enemy of our souls and worship together at the foot of our Father!

Happy Independence Day!