Happy Independence Day! It seems like a particularly good year to celebrate the founding of our nation, a separation from the monarchy of Britain and an embrace of democratic principles instead.
The eucharistic readings appointed by the lectionary for today particularly emphasize the sovereignty and compassion of God; our responsibility to care for the most vulnerable; and Jesus’ teaching that we should love everyone, even our enemies. (Deuteronomy 10:17-21; Psalm 145; Hebrews 11:8-16; and Matthew 5:43-48)
The Book of Common Prayer also includes the following prayer:
For our Country
Almighty God, who hast given us this good land for our heritage: We humbly beseech thee that we may always prove ourselves a people mindful of thy favor and glad to do thy will. Bless our land with honorable industry, sound learning, and pure manners. Save us from violence, discord, and confusion; from pride and arrogance, and from every evil way. Defend our liberties, and fashion into one united people the multitudes brought hither out of many kindreds and tongues. Endue with the spirit of wisdom those to whom in thy Name we entrust the authority of government, that there may be justice and peace at home, and that, through obedience to thy law, we may show forth thy praise among the nations of the earth. In the time of prosperity, fill our hearts with thankfulness, and in the day of trouble, suffer not our trust in thee to fail; all which we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (BCP, p. 820)
It seems to me to be a wonderful prayer for us to return to again and again ─ and not just on national holidays.
However you are celebrating this July 4th weekend, may you find a few moments for prayerful reflection. And may you also find places of blessing and joy!
