God Works Through His People

We are quickly approaching July 4, 2026, which will mark the 250th anniversary or the semiquincentennial anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence from England. Have you purchased any of the memorabilia marking the occasion?

  In one sense, two hundred fifty years ago seems like a long time ago. In another sense, it does not seem that long ago. A generation is considered to be 20-30 years. So, for some easy math, we could say that was about (10) generations back. In contrast, refer back to Jesus’ ministry, His suffering, dying for all of us while we were yet sinners, and on the third day was resurrected. That was about (1,000) generations back!

  Hmm…the United States of America turning 250 years old. We are a very young nation! Let’s go to Independence Hall during the time leading up to that fateful day in July! Can you imagine being in that room for hours and hours with about fifty other delegates hashing out the terms of this document that would later be submitted to the powers of the English Parliament? The majority had to “agree”. Allegedly, only thirteen colonies eventually agreed- Pennsylvania refused to sign.

 God worked His purpose through these men and many other leading up to that moment! Our Lord continues to work through people; good people and bad people for the good! Amen! We have learned through historic accounts of the many changes this nation, the United States of America, has undergone; the good, the bad, and the ugly. The generations living today have witnessed many changes as well. We too, have witnessed the good, the bad, and the ugly. And there is a lot more bad and ugly! We have seen and heard the evil things we humans do to each other. There have been wars and rumors of wars just as Scripture says in MATTHEW 24:6.

  As Christians, we are blessed to witness God’s truth coming to pass in each generation…our generation! His word is without error! Regardless of the terrible things that have happened, the bumps, bruises, black eyes, etc. We suffer as a nation. Regardless, some of us remain loyal to these United States of America. We are patriots of these United States of America, one nation, under God. And by the power of the Holy Spirit, we will remain steadfast! This is where the Lord our God placed us; our generation. We ought not to be ashamed or embarrassed of His plan and His many blessings he has bestowed on us.

 However, Christians, we know we have dual citizenship! This is our temporary home! Being loyal and patriotic to our country is important. But it is secondary to being loyal and patriotic to our Heavenly Father! What is the definition of a patriot? It is a person who loves, supports, and defends their country and its interests with devotion. God does not need for us to be patriotic, but he loves it when we are! Our faith is in Jesus Christ! Our hope is in the Resurrection! Our final home is in the new heaven and the new earth! All will be made right! Amen!

 We are commanded to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world as Scripture says in MATTHEW 5:13-16. When your neighbor is in your presence, do they know who you (your soul) belong to? Would they want to go where you’re going? Our Father in heaven is patriotic (lovingly steadfast and faithful) to you whether you are a believer or not. He commands the same of us toward Him!

Your friend in Jesus Christ,

Bryan Hardy