I offer this prayer from the Lutheran Book of Worship as we prepare to celebrate Independence Day. I pray your festivities are safe and fun. Also, take a moment to give thanks through Christ for the tremendous blessing of our freedom bestowed on us by God through the vision and legacy of our forefathers. Let us never forsake our liberty.
Almighty God, you have given us this good land as our heritage. Make us always remember your generosity and constantly do your will. Bless our land with honest industry, truthful education, and an honorable way of life. Save us from violence, discord, and confusion; from pride and arrogance, and from every evil course of action. Make us who came from many nations with many different languages a united people. Defend our liberties and give those whom we have entrusted with the authority of government the spirit of wisdom, that there might be justice and peace in our land. When times are prosperous, let our hearts be thankful; and in troubled times, do not let our trust in you fail. We ask all this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (LBW, p. 42)
Celebrating our Freedom in the Lord –
Pastor Culynn
To prepare for worship on Sunday
(July 8), you are invited to read:
Mark 7:24-30