Independence Day in America is celebrated on July 4th, a memorial to that day in 1776, when the colonists signed the Declaration of Independence declaring separation from Great Britain. It’s a day of picnics, fireworks, and parades in red, white, and blue. It should also be a day to commemorate the sacrifice these men made to their own destinies in order to claim a destiny for this nation which we now enjoy and often take for granted.
Here are a few quotes from the men who made this independence possible:
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“Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death.” – Patrick Henry
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“They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.” – Benjamin Franklin
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“There, I guess King George will be able to read that.” – John Hancock, whose signature is largely and boldly placed at the top of the famous document
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“I am well aware of the toil and blood and treasure it will cost us to maintain this declaration, and support and defend these states. Yet through all the gloom I see the rays of ravishing light and glory. I can see that the end is worth all the means.” – John Adams
Today, I thank God for those who for over 200 years have sacrificed their own circumstances and often their lives that we could enjoy the freedoms of this nation. From the founding fathers to military service persons over the centuries, I am grateful.
I also thank God for sending His precious Son to lay down His own life that we could enjoy and walk in eternal freedom:
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“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” – Galatians 5:1
Happy Independence Day! Let us celebrate and appreciate our freedom!