As a kid, I always looked forward to the Fourth of July. It meant fireworks, cookouts, and family gatherings. Seriously, what could be better than all those things rolled together into a party?
Then came the day of my life when I learned why we celebrated this holiday. I learned that this country, which I so often take for granted, didn’t always exist! I learned our story. It’s a David and Goliath story.
We were a people living on the frontier of life who didn’t like unfair rules imposed upon us. We pushed back against the powerful global nation that established those unfair rules. When conflict finally broke out, few would have given us any chance in the tussle. On paper, we should not have carried the day. On paper, the fight should have ended quickly. On paper, the outcome was a foregone conclusion.
But that’s one thing I love about being an American. We defy the odds. We find ways around the obstacles. We surprise the entire world with our passion for finding a better way—constantly striving to improve who we are and the ideals of democracy and freedom that bind us together as one people.
I appreciate that DNA that has helped form us as “US.” We’re not perfect. We can always do better. But we are a people constantly searching for that better way, which gives me great hope in “U.S.”
Have a wonderful and safe Fourth of July weekend. During the holiday, find time to read 1st Samuel Chapter 17 and smile a knowing smile. It takes faith to overcome the giants. That’s why I am confident we will prevail over the giants our nation is facing right now. Hear these encouraging words a little shepherd boy once shouted at a giant long ago:, “You come to me with sword and spear and javelin; but I come to you in the name of the LORD!”
You come to me with
1 Samuel 17:45 NRSV
sword and spear and javelin;
but I come to you
in the name of the LORD!
You remember who wins, right? Faith wins.
God’s Peace,
