The Price of Freedom

 

Oh give thanks to the LORD; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples! Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works! Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice! Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually! Remember the wondrous works that he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he uttered, O offspring of Abraham, his servant, children of Jacob, his chosen ones! (Psalm 105:1-6 ESV).

 

I hope you have already celebrated or will celebrate today this wonderful holiday in our nation’s history. I thought some background might be helpful in directing our celebrations. It was actually on July 3, 1776, following the signing of the Declaration of Independence that John Adams reflected on that important day:

 

The second day of July 1776 will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever.

 

You will think me transported with enthusiasm, but I am not. I am well aware of the toil and blood and treasure that it will cost to maintain this Declaration and support and defend these States. Yet through all the gloom I can see the rays of ravishing light and glory. I can see that the end is worth more than all the means; that posterity will triumph in that day’s transaction, even though we [may regret] it, which I trust in God we shall not.

 

Our reading today points us to the only source of freedom. Adams makes such a reference in his remarks (see bold print). Then he adds, “Yet through all the gloom I can see the rays of ravishing light and glory. I can see that the end is worth more than all the means.” We do well to remember and memorialize the sacrifice of so many to purchase the freedoms we enjoy in our country; however, none of those accomplishments will carry us into eternity free. The only constitution and bill of rights that truly count are those principles we have in the work of Christ on our behalf. Today, as much as any day, we must remember the works that god has done on our behalf. That is the heart of our real celebration. Enjoy family and friends, welcome the respite from the challenges you face on this holiday; however, do not forget to thank He who has given us real freedom! Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face forever!