This year, the United States of America celebrates 250 years of independence, a milestone that will culminate in celebrations across the nation on July 4th. Freedom has always been the central theme of Independence Day. We often hear the phrase, “Freedom isn’t free,” and few would disagree. The liberties we enjoy today were secured through sacrifice, courage, and a commitment to principles that have guided our nation since its founding.
Inscribed on the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia are the words, “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof.” Those words are not merely a patriotic slogan; they are a direct quotation from Leviticus 25:10. In an age when discussions of faith in public life often generate controversy, it is worth noting that many of our nation’s founders spoke openly about God and the role faith played in shaping their understanding of liberty and self-government.
Did you know that as you approach the building that houses the United States Supreme Court, you can see a row of history’s great lawgivers carved near the top, with Moses prominently displayed holding the Ten Commandments?
Did you know that the large oak doors leading into the Supreme Court courtroom contain engravings of the Ten Commandments?
Did you know that above the seats of the Supreme Court justices is a depiction that includes the Ten Commandments?
Did you know that numerous Bible verses and Biblical references can be found etched into federal buildings and monuments throughout Washington, D.C.?
Did you know that James Madison, often called the “Father of the Constitution,” emphasized the importance of self-government and personal virtue in maintaining a free society? Our fourth president made the following statement: “We have staked the whole of all our political institutions upon the capacity of mankind for self-government, upon the capacity of each and all of us to govern ourselves, to control ourselves, to sustain ourselves according to the Ten Commandments of God.”
Did you know that every session of Congress opens with prayer, a tradition that dates back to the earliest years of the Republic?
Did you know that Thomas Jefferson expressed concern that the judiciary might one day exceed its constitutional role by creating law rather than merely interpreting it, resulting in what he described as the potential for “the rule of few over many”?
It is encouraging to reflect on the Biblical principles that influenced our nation’s founding and the enduring impact they have had on our country. The Bible, the world’s best-selling book, remains a source of timeless truth, wisdom, and direction for life. As we devote ourselves to reading and studying God’s Word, we grow in our understanding of God and become better prepared to live out its teachings and apply its principles in our homes, our communities, and our daily lives.
This Fourth of July, my family and I will be giving thanks to God for the many blessings He has bestowed upon our nation and for the privilege of living in a country where we can participate in the process of self-government. We will also be praying that Americans will seek God’s wisdom, guidance, and truth as we face the challenges and opportunities of our time.
As we celebrate our 250th anniversary on Independence Day, may we be grateful for the freedoms we enjoy as Americans and for the internal freedom and hope God offers to all who seek Him. May God richly bless you and your family as you celebrate our nation’s heritage and the many blessings of liberty.
— Reflections appears regularly on the religion page. The column features a variety of local writers, coordinated through the Monroe Area Clergy Group. Kevin Cernek is senior pastor of Martintown Community Church.
