HAVE A HAPPY AND SAFE JULY 4^th !

THE HISTORY

We begin by quoting some history about the origins of the holiday.

"On July 4, 1776, the thirteen colonies claimed their independence from England, an event which eventually led to the formation of the United States. Each year on July 4th, also known as Independence Day, Americans celebrate this historic event.

Conflict between the colonies and England was already a year old when the colonies convened a Continental Congress in Philadelphia in the summer of 1776. In a June 7 session in the Pennsylvania State House (later Independence Hall), Richard Henry Lee of Virginia presented a resolution with the famous words: 'Resolved: That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States'…”

[A] Committee of Five was appointed to draft a statement presenting to the world the colonies' case for independence. Members of the Committee included John Adams of Massachusetts, Roger Sherman of Connecticut, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania, Robert R. Livingston of New York and Thomas Jefferson of Virginia. The task of drafting the actual document fell on Jefferson...” 1

Some minor revisions were made between July 1^st and July 4th, then…late in the afternoon…John Hancock, the President of the Continental Congress, signed what they called the “Declaration of Independence” …And others present did the same.

“Today, the original copy of the Declaration is housed in the National Archives in Washington, D.C., and July 4 has been designated a national holiday to commemorate the day the United States laid down its claim to be a free and independent nation.” 2

CELEBRATING TODAY

We just read how our blessed nation began. But that was just the beginning. Many throughout these last two and a half centuries have continued to fight for each of us in this nation—sacrificing their lives, their limbs… losing their comrade/friends… family time and connections… and some, even their mental and emotional health… They have kept those of us at home safe and sound, even as they have gone into harm’s way.

The 4^th of July is a good day to remember the sacrifices many have made to keep our country free. It’s a day to thank veterans (and their families, who could also use our encouragement and a helping hand at times) for their contributions to our success and peace and well-being.

Finally, we can remember to continue to help the veterans who came home from the war zone injured, and in need of help and support. The battles they fight still continue—for life, for health and for well-being, while many of the rest of us have gained our country’s peaceful advantages from their offering.

Last, but not least, we can continue our on-going prayer for those who are still assigned to active combat zones—for protection and courage, safety and peace.

And we can persist in praying for those veterans and their caring families dealing with injuries and trauma... for healing and help, encouragement and strength. We salute you! We applaud you! And we hold you in our hearts...

FOOTNOTES

1.https://www.military.com/independence-day/history-of-independence-day.html

2.Ibid.