Dear Union Church Family,
Happy Fourth of July weekend everyone!
I honor my country on this Independence Day, 2021. Why? For starters:
First, The USA grew historically out of spiritual struggle. A longing for Christ in the hearts of the Pilgrim Fathers and Mothers compelled them to risk all for Him. A great beginning.
Second, the USA embodies, very imperfectly, a conviction that every one of us has God-given dignity: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all people are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights.”
Third, The USA has been blessed with the First Great Awakening, the Second Great Awakening, the revivals of 1858-59 and other movements of the Holy Spirit, converting many to Christ, growing amazing churches and sending hundreds of thousands of missionaries and money to the ends of the earth.
Fourth, the “greatest generation” of the USA defeated tyranny at a great personal cost. The war had to be fought, and I am so grateful for those courageous warriors who did their duty and won the battle.
Last, I fully realize that the USA falls so short in so many ways. However, slapping down my country is not a redemptive response. I pray for my country, that the risen Christ would pour out his Spirit again, that the church would be cleansed and multitudes brought to Christ and our nation renewed. Only with God can there be another great beginning. May it be so!
Grateful,
Billy
PS. If any men would like to join the choir this Sunday, practice begins promptly at 10:00am in the sanctuary.
