Today marks the 250th anniversary of the birth of the United States of America. On July 4, 1776, the United States was born in the signing of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Delegates from the thirteen original colonies settled by England in the 17th and 18th centuries had enough of the tyrannical rule from King George III. Freedom was sought after. “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”
Before I go any further we must all recognized that the United States is not a perfect country, nor was it at its birth. Why? Because we live in a broken world and all mankind is sinful. The Bible says, “The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is?” (Jer.17:9 nlt) Now that I have covered that, mankind is still capable of doing good when our hearts and minds are centered on our creator God. The men of the American Revolution were not perfect, but most of them believed in their creator God.
As the nation celebrates 250 years the question is asked will America make another 250 years. It may be a moot point for all of us today. But for some of you, will America celebrate a Tri-Centennial? I am old enough to remember America’s Bi-Centennial and the feel of celebration was quite different from the now 250th anniversary. The difference is centered around one thing, the division of the country. Never before has America been so divided. If the thirteen colonies were as divided as we are today there would have been no will to continue seeking freedom. Being united is essential for freedom and our survival.
Being united is living by the documents established by the Founding Fathers. Beginning with the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, and the Bill of Rights we have a government that is truly for the people by the people. They are for everyone and they work. The problem today is there is a constant effort to tear down the very structure that provides the freedom we all enjoy.
It seems obvious that if the United States of America will survive to see a Tri-centennial the divisiveness must end and our founding documents must stand. Of course, they need a little tweaking from time to time, but only ‘a little tweaking.’ We can agree to disagree and remain united for the sake of the safety of our country and hope for the future generations. Happy Birthday America 250!
Word for the Soul 