Blessed to Call This Home

There’s something special about the Fourth of July. Maybe it’s the smell of burgers on the grill, kids running through the yard with sparklers, neighborhood parades, or watching fireworks light up the night sky. It’s a day filled with family, friends, laughter, and memories.

This year also marks a remarkable milestone as our nation celebrates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. For a country that has experienced both incredible triumphs and difficult challenges, it’s an opportunity to pause and give thanks.

As Christians, we know that our greatest citizenship is in heaven. Through Jesus Christ, we have forgiveness, eternal life, and a home that will never fade away. Yet God has also placed us here, in this nation, at this time, and that is a gift worth recognizing.

We live in a country where we are free to gather for worship, hear God’s Word, receive His Sacraments, raise our families, and openly share the hope we have in Christ. Those freedoms should never be taken for granted. “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people whom He has chosen as His heritage.”  Psalm 33:12

Our country isn’t perfect, and it never has been. Like every nation throughout history, we have our faults and our need for God’s mercy. That’s why Christians pray not only in times of trouble, but every day that God would continue to guide our leaders, protect our communities, and bless our neighbors. The Apostle Paul encourages us: “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions.” 1 Timothy 2:1–2

As you celebrate this Independence Day, enjoy the cookouts, the family gatherings, and the fireworks. Laugh a little louder. Hug your loved ones a little tighter. But also take a quiet moment to thank the One from whom every good gift comes. Thank God for the freedom to worship. Thank Him for the people who have served and sacrificed. Thank Him for your family, your church, and your community. Most of all, thank Him for the freedom found in Jesus Christ a freedom that no government can give and no one can take away.

Happy Fourth of July, and may God continue to bless our nation as we seek to follow Him with grateful hearts.

Kelsey Wilbern – New Member Coordinator