The 4th of July is coming fast. Let’s think about the patriots’ love that led to July 4th. But what does love have to do with this patriotic holiday?
When we look at July 4th, we remember barbecues, eating watermelon, and fireworks.
Even so, love—love of God and love of others—formed the cornerstone of our Independence Day. These American patriots’ love led them to the cause of gaining our independence. What an example!
Faithful patriots
Humanity is God’s marvelous sparkling crown of creation, and the greatest members of the human race have one thing in common. They have deep and abiding dedication to a worthy cause. George Washington. Thomas Jefferson. John Paul Jones. Betsy Ross. Such people as these became bound together by a specific purpose.
Determined and faithful, George Washington served as commander of the American Colonial Army. He became an inspirational leader in the cause of freedom for the then-British colonial territories. John Paul Jones contributed significant help to the movement as he wholeheartedly joined the fight for freedom.
Thomas Jefferson wielded influence in understanding what the American Revolution meant. He provided a mental vision for it. The flag made by Betsy Ross became a symbol of and for people who loved the cause and struggled for freedom.
These patriots were truly great because God their Creator placed within them love and devotion to liberty. “Every good thing bestowed, and every perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17). God fused together people totally committed to the cause of freedom, and the resulting liberty is God’s gift.
Love such as these patriots held is the mark of greatness. Such love enables anyone in the world to maintain a steady commitment. People who learn to accept the gift of God’s love become the foundation upon which social good rests. John F. Kennedy’s statement “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country,” will only make sense if a person loves his country.
Freedom and greatness
America enjoys freedom and greatness because its people have always been citizens who knew how to convey immense love. Our society needs to remember the real meaning of love. True love endures suffering, hardship, poverty, or wealth.
Love does not insist on its own way (I Cor. 13:5) but looks for opportunities to share God’s presence with everyone. When God becomes the focus of love, His will becomes ours and unselfish love fills our lives. Lasting love—overcoming life’s disappointments and challenges—grows from the person’s spirit. It is a person’s spirit which causes his physical being to live for higher causes in unselfish dedication to good.
This spiritual way of love is the mark of greatness. People who receive Jesus obtain the full answer for all of life. If you are missing a constant feeling of God’s love warming you up inside, there is help available. Turn completely to God through Jesus Christ in whom God’s full love is expressed to all humanity. If you need help, see your pastor or Christian friend.
So we see how the patriots’ love led to July 4th!
How will you celebrate the 4th of July?
Want to investigate further?
See a more complete history of July 4th here.
Read more about FJ here.
