Thoughts on the 4th of July--the lectionary readings for today always remind me of the faith that inspired people to come to the New World in the first place. The Old Testament reading today is an especially powerful reminder of our duty: "You shall fear the Lord your God; you shall serve him and cleave to him, and by his name you shall swear." Dt. 10:20
Native American myth says that they were transported here by the gods to settle and prosper.
The Spanish came to evangelize the entire world so that Jesus would come again.
Catholics came to find a safe place to practice their faith.
The Pilgrims came to form a New Jerusalem so they could worship God as they believed right.
Over the generations other faiths and ethnic groups have come to this country as well, seeking safety for themselves and their families. Of course, with each group, there were those who wanted the gold, or the power, or the glory and used religion as an excuse, but that doesn't negate the real faith and dreams of those who came seeking a religious haven and found it.
The faith and courage of our forebearers is something we should remember along with the lives lost in the attaining and maintaining of the dream of Freedom, Liberty, and Justice for all. Happy Fourth of July!
Native American myth says that they were transported here by the gods to settle and prosper.
The Spanish came to evangelize the entire world so that Jesus would come again.
Catholics came to find a safe place to practice their faith.
The Pilgrims came to form a New Jerusalem so they could worship God as they believed right.
Over the generations other faiths and ethnic groups have come to this country as well, seeking safety for themselves and their families. Of course, with each group, there were those who wanted the gold, or the power, or the glory and used religion as an excuse, but that doesn't negate the real faith and dreams of those who came seeking a religious haven and found it.
The faith and courage of our forebearers is something we should remember along with the lives lost in the attaining and maintaining of the dream of Freedom, Liberty, and Justice for all. Happy Fourth of July!
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