As we approach the celebration of our independence as a nation, I thought it might be nice to listen to some of our forefathers. One that is not talked about a lot but was vital to the founding of our nation is Samuel Adams, the "father of the American Revolution". For some 20 years he labored as a patriot and leader of the revolution. He wrote the following words in The Rights of the Colonists which was circulated in 1772:
The right to freedom being the gift of the Almighty . . . The rights of the colonists as Christians . . . may be understood by reading and carefully understanding the institution of The Great Law Giver and Head of the Christian Church, which are to be found clearly written and promulgated in the New Testament. At the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, Samuel Adams declared: We have this day restored the Sovereign to Whom all men ought to be obedient. He reigns in heaven and from the rising to the setting of the sun, let His kingdom come.
And then, words from the "father of our country", George Washington, a private prayer recorded near his headquarters on the Hudson River in June of 1779: And now, Almighty Father, if it is Thy holy will that we shall obtain a place and name among the nations of the earth, grant that we may be enabled to show our gratitude for Thy goodness by our endeavors to fear and obey Thee. Bless us with Thy wisdom in our counsels, success in battle, and let all our victories be tempered with humanity. Endow, also, our enemies with enlightened minds, that they become sensible of their injustice, and willing to restore our liberty and peace. Grant the petition of Thy servant, for the sake of Him whom Thou hast called Thy beloved Son; nevertheless, not my will, but Thine be done.
These are only a couple of examples of how our forefathers showed complete dependence on our Lord. Oh God, take us back to that same acknowledgement and dependence on You.
Let's celebrate our heritage and ask God's mercy upon our nation today. mjm
