Celebrating America!
Happy Birthday to the United States of America! It was 245 years ago this Sunday, July 4, that the second Continental Congress boldly declared that the thirteen American colonies were no longer subject or subordinate to the monarch of Britain, King George III. Our fledgling nation was now united, free, and independent – by the grace of God. “America, America, God shed His grace on thee; and crown Thy good with brotherhood, from sea to shining sea!” as the poet Katharine Lee Bates penned in 1895.
But America has changed. So much so, in fact, that I wonder whether our founding fathers - including Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin – would even recognize the United States anymore. Seems the very foundations of our nation that many once found in God have been crumbling and our moral fiber unraveling. All you have to do is watch the news or look around. Many are despairing about our future. Some believe we are a nation on the verge of collapse. Nevertheless, I have hope.
Join me and your Grace Church family and friends this Sunday for a special patriotic combined service beginning at 10:00 AM in which I will share a message entitled, “America’s Hope.” Is there hope for America? If so, where can it be found? It will be my privilege and delight to share with you three great reason why we can still believe in America. We’ll sing a couple contemporary choruses along with several patriotic hymns. And, retired serviceman, Will McCollum, will share a moving tribute to the flag speech.
It’s going to be a special Sunday that you will not want to miss. If you care about our nation and share concern about out future, this message is for you. Remember, it’s a combined service beginning at 10:00 AM. If you have to miss it, a video will be posted on our web site later in the day. I encourage you to invite family and friends to join us. It’s going to be great fun to bring our entire congregation together again in unity. May God’s grace, peace, and power be upon us as we worship Him gratefully this Sunday!