On Independence Day we remember the action of the Second Continental Congress declaring the American Colonies independent from Great Britain. The Declaration contains Thomas Jefferson’s noblest words. “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.”

The notion that there are natural rights given by God and that the purpose of government is to secure these rights seems to escape some people. I sincerely desire that our lawmakers keep this purpose in mind.

When the First Continental Congress met in 1774 the Reverend Jacob Duché, Rector of Christ Church of Philadelphia, was asked to offer prayer. John Adams later remarked, “I must confess I never heard a better Prayer or one, so well pronounced.” Here’s part of that prayer.

“O Lord our Heavenly Father, high and mighty King of kings, and Lord of lords, who dost from thy throne behold all the dwellers on earth and reignest with power supreme and uncontrolled over all the Kingdoms, Empires and Governments; look down in mercy, we beseech Thee, on these our American States. . . Be Thou present, O God of wisdom, and direct the councils of this honorable assembly; enable them to settle things on the best and surest foundation. That the scene of blood may be speedily closed; that order, harmony and peace may be effectually restored, and truth and justice, religion and piety, prevail and flourish amongst the people.”

It’s a prayer worth praying today.

Read Daniel 2:21 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne