Yesterday we enjoyed the 4th of July. We often take our country, and the freedoms we enjoy therein, for granted. We bicker, complain and even grow cynical. Yesterday however Natalie and I enjoyed the 4th with renewed gratitude. We remarked to one another the effect our recent trip to China has had on our family. We're convinced that international travel is a sure way to prompt gratefulness for what we enjoy in the US. Observing another country, it's government, and it's people is incredibly eye-opening.
Are there things wrong with our country? Yes, but so is the case with every country. We live in a broken world full of broken people. Scripture says that all of creation presently groans for its Redeemer (and the headlines vouch for such groaning) (Romans 8:22). But let us not be mistaken, there are tremendous privileges and blessings that come with being an American that we need not overlook. Let us be grateful people - and give praise to the God who is Sovereign over all (Daniel 2:21).
"Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty; for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is Thine; Thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and Thou are exalted as Head above all." (1 Chronicles 29:11)
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| We enjoyed the morning at a 4th of July parade in Peachtree City. Army cars, veteran soldiers, fire trucks, and free candy was a hit with the boys. |
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| Fletch's heightened anticipation for "fire trucks"! |
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| No Fletch does not have Ruthie in a choke hold - this is classified as a "Fletcher Hug". The next picture was Ruthie's mouth opening wide to bite in defense... |
