Today is July 4, the birthday of the United States of America. On this date in 1776, our forefathers put their lives on the line and signed the Declaration of Independence, declaring freedom from British rule.
Those of us who know and understand the history of our country have a deep gratitude for the patriots who risked everything for what they believed was right. Their example still motivates us today.
What was it that caused them to declare independence from the British? The king was exploiting the colonists and taxing them in oppressive ways. He ignored the fact that as British citizens, it was their right to be represented in the law-making bodies in Britain. The king didn’t really care about the welfare of the American colonists.
But what if the king had been concerned about the welfare of his subjects? What if his predisposition had been one of goodwill toward them with a desire to see them prosper? It is quite possible that the American colonies would still be a part of Britain today.
However, that’s not a sure thing. Take for example the King of Kings and His subjects, Adam and Eve. Here is a case where the King was benevolent toward His subjects, but they still rebelled.
He created a beautiful Garden for their home and provided everything they needed. In His goodness, He gave them dominion over all that He had placed in the Garden; they were to rule over it and take care of it. All He required was their obedience.
But, when tempted, they disobeyed by choosing to follow their own desires. The consequences were severe, resulting in a curse being placed on all creation. We now live in the result of that choice.
But this good King of Kings is still good, and He has a plan. He came to earth and broke the grip of that curse, so that all who follow Him will one day live as He had originally planned — in new bodies, on a new Earth, with Him. That’s Heaven. And, He’s still seeking those who will come to Him and obey Him.
I find an interesting paradox here. We celebrate our independence from a tyrannical king, an independence that has allowed us to exercise what we consider our right to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” But at the same time, we ignore the King of Kings, who in His goodness, mercy, and love offers us that very life, liberty, and happiness for which we seek.
Seems like a mystery, doesn’t it. It is! But it’s real.
So, on this Fourth of July, let us rejoice in celebrating our country’s independence and the many freedoms it has provided us. As you do, also think about the plan of the benevolent King of Kings. If you've never considered His offer, you may be surprised to find it’s the very thing you’ve been seeking.
Happy Birthday America! (and perhaps even a Happy Birthday to the new you!)
