The 4^th of July. America's Independence Day. A day commemorating and celebrating - what? I wonder if the repetitive nature of annual holidays somehow diminishes the origin of that first special event. Cloudy confusion can be the result if we are not diligent in pursuing original truth. Because of my thoughts, I would like to share with you some quotations from one of our founding fathers and the 2^nd president of these United States, Mr. John Adams. I believe within his words we will know some of his heart and passion. I also believe Mr. Adams is a fine representation of the entire core of founding fathers as he eloquently speaks words that echo their hearts and passions as well. (I would love to share quotes from all of them, but then this blog would become a book!) All quotes are taken from the book, "America's God and Country" by William J. Federer. I will type them as they originally appeared, regarding both grammar and punctuation. Much had been happening in both England and America leading up to the days of these quotes. I encourage you to dig back in time and learn about this period of our heritage once more.

On June 21, 1776, John Adams wrote:

"Statesmen, my dear Sir, may plan and speculate for liberty, but it is Religion and Morality alone, which can establish the Principles upon which Freedom can securely stand.

The only foundation of a free Constitution is pure Virtue, and if this cannot be inspired into our People in a greater Measure than they have it now, they may change their Rulers and the forms of Government, but they will not obtain a lasting liberty."

In contemplating the effect that separation from England would mean to him personally, John Adams wrote:

"If it be the pleasure of Heaven that my country shall require the poor offering of my life, the victim shall be ready, at the appointed hour of sacrifice, come when that hour may. But while I do live, let me have a country, and that a free country!"

On July 1, 1776, John Adams profoundly spoke at the Continental Congress to the delegates from the Thirteen Colonies:

"Before God, I believe the hour has come. My judgment approves this measure, and my whole heart is in it. All that I have, and all that I am, and all that I hope in this life, I am now ready here to stake upon it. And I leave off as I began, that live or die, survive or perish, I am for the Declaration. It is my living sentiment, and by the blessing of God it shall be my dying sentiment. Independence now, and Independence for ever!"

On July 3, 1776, the day following Congress' approval of the Declaration of Independence, John Adams wrote to his wife, Abigail, regarding the gravity of the decision:

"It is the will of heaven that the two countries should be sundered forever. It may be the will of heaven that America shall suffer calamities still more wasting and distresses yet more dreadful. If this is to be the case, it will have this good effect, at least: it will inspire us with many virtues which we have not, and correct many errors, follies and vices, which threaten to disturb, dishonor and destroy us.The furnace of affliction produces refinements in states, as well as individuals."

On July 3, 1776, John Adams wrote again to his wife, Abigail, reflecting on what he had shared in Congress and, with prophetic insight, declaring the importance of that day:

"The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. 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 illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever.

You will think me transported with enthusiasm, but I am not. I am well aware of the toil and blood and treasure that it will cost to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. Yet through all the gloom I can see the rays of ravishing light and glory. I can see that the end is worth more than all the means; that posterity will triumph in that day's transaction, even though we [may regret] it, which I trust in God we shall not."

So there you have it - simply a few quotes from a humble steward of God. During this 4^th of July and beyond, may we all be reminded of the Divine principles and purposes upon which this country was founded. God has indeed blessed America. Now America must continually choose to bless God!

Thanks for reading,

Libby

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