This July 4th marks the 241st anniversary of the USA.  One of our founding fathers, John Adams, talked about remembering and celebrating this anniversary:

“I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty; it ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.” John Adams

Those who fought for the freedoms for the new country, while having differing opinions, knew we needed to stay united as Americans.

“A general dissolution of principles and manners will more surely overthrow the liberties of America than the whole force of the common enemy. While the people are virtuous they cannot be subdued; but when once they lose their virtue then will be ready to surrender their liberties to the first external or internal invader.”
― Samuel Adams

“The distinctions between Virginians, Pennsylvanians, New Yorkers, and New Englanders are no more. I Am Not A Virginian, But An American!”
― Patrick Henry

Those revolutionists of the 1700’s saw how this new experiment in liberty was bigger than their own new country they were fighting for.

It is a common observation here that our cause is the cause of all mankind, and that we are fighting for their liberty in defending our own. Benjamin Franklin

After all was said and done, John Adams gave a short but solemn warning to future generations:

“Posterity! You will never know how much it cost the present Generation to preserve your Freedom! I hope you will make good use of it. If you do not, I shall repent in Heaven, that I ever took half the Pains to preserve it.”
– John Adams

It is a great blessing to live in the United States of America, but the days we live in are not exactly our most shining hours.  Prayer for our country and leaders can be a tremendous help.  God has shed His grace on this country, and we pray He will continue to be gracious.