Day 66: Independence Day

(Last one from my internet-free weekend!)

Happy Independence Day! Happy 4th of July! God Bless AMERICA!!! Today was an excellent day, Lord. I helped out with more charity work, which was delightful. And, of course, lots of patriotic music, too. One of my favorite patriotic songs is “God Bless the U.S.A. (Proud to Be an American)” by Lee Greenwood. As I was listening to it, I felt this overwhelming sense of pride and tears welled up in my eyes; I thought of the men and women who are serving or have served this great nation; I also thought of my friends who are serving or will be soon. God put me here for a reason, and I am so thankful that He did. Many Americans (myself included, sadly) take their freedom for granted. Today, I tried to imagine living in a country where I have no freedom—where I had no freedom of speech, press, assembly, petition, or RELIGION; where I couldn’t vote; where I didn’t have the basic necessities. I couldn’t even fathom how difficult that would be, and I pray for everyone who doesn’t have any of that.

For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
~Galatians 5:13-14 (KJV)

God has called us to serve one another. Some people serve directly as pastors/preachers/priests, etc. Others serve as teachers, doctors, police, firefighters, etc. However, none of us could serve in those ways if there weren’t soldiers to defend the country we reside in. They don’t do it for their own benefit; they do it for their families, their friends, and every other person in the U.S. In my opinion, they are some of the most selfless people on earth. It is because of them by the grace of God that we have our independence. God put it in their hearts to serve, and without that, this country wouldn’t be the Land of the Free or the Home of the Brave.

Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for blessing the charity, and I ask that You continue to do so. Lord, please watch over those who serve You and this country. Please bless them with all the desires of their hearts; please watch over them, bless them with strength and courage, and bring them home safely. They deserve so much, particularly love. I pray that they receive the love and respect that they deserve from their fellow Americans. Lord, please also watch over their families and bless them in times of separation or loss. Please also watch over those who are in need of guidance and/or defense as well as those who do not believe in You—please bless them all with family and/or friends whom You can work through to guide them to You. Thank You for my family, friends, and pets; I ask that You please watch over them, bless them, and keep them safe, strong, happy, and healthy. Please cleanse me of my sins, and please continue to guide me down Your path and help me to become a better person. Lord, let me know how You want me to serve You and I will gladly oblige. I will serve You forever, Lord, no matter what. I love You, Lord, with all of my heart and soul. Thank You again for the country I live in along with the men and women who defend both Your name and Lady Liberty, and may they be forever protected and blessed by You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.


Love and God Bless,
M.C.