Independence Day Reflections: What’s RIGHT With America? (by David Pope)

As we approach the Fourth of July holiday, let us take a moment to stop and consider some Good Things that we as Americans can experience…. Unlike the case in many countries, people of faith of all creeds or denominations can go to the place of worship of their choice (or stay home) at will. In some nations, church attendance is a criminal act; I am aware of Vietnamese Christians that have spent YEARS in prison for the mere act of going to church. In other nations, failure to attend religious services can be cause for violence if not outright criminal action.
Here in America, we can share the Gospel with our fellow Americans without fear of violence or arrest.

Here in America, even a poor person more likely than not will have their own car, a paying job, a dwelling (whether apartment, or house) they don’t have to share with another family.

Here in America, we have a masterfully written Constitution based in good part on God’s Word that has endured for over 200 years. Some countries have had several just in the post WW2 era.

Here in America, we vote for elective leaders in regular, nonviolent elections. When a party loses, we expect a peaceful transition of power.

Here in America, we can purchase just about any kind of firearm we choose to, AND use it in defense of our person and expect to be able to offer self-defense as a defense against criminal charges in court.

Here in America, we can travel from place to place without specific government permission.

Here in America, we can access whatever information we wish on the Internet without governmental blocking of web sites.

Here in America, we don’t have to fight for freedom in our streets. Instead, we take the idea to the rest of the world; Americans are fighting for freedom in places like Fallujah and Kandahar and not in Dallas, Newark and Atlanta.

There is much more that could be said, but you get the idea. So take a second as we celebrate the 229th anniversary of our declaration of independence from Great Britain and thank God for John Winthrop’s “shining city on a hill”, the United States of America.

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.” (Psalms 33:12)

” …where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” (2 Corinthians 3:17)

Have a happy Fourth, and God Bless America!

James and Dave

© 2005 DIP








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