HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY! And GOD BLESS AMERICA

The following two prayers are from the 1928 Book of Common Prayer, Episcopal. I think that they reflect the feeling of the overwhelming majority of Americans and it is worth reflecting on, no matter one's faith and or if one has no faith.

Prayer For Our Country

Almighty God, who hast given us this good land for our heritage; We humbly beseech thee that we may always prove ourselves a people mindful of they favour and glad to do thy will. Bless our land with honourable industry, sound learning, and pure manners. Save us from violence, discord and confusion; from pride and arrogancy, and from every evil way. Defend our liberties, and fashion into one united people the multitudes brought hither out of many kindreds and tongues. Endue with the spirit of wisdom those to whom in thy name we entrust the authority of government, that there may be justice and peace at home, and that through obedience to thy law, we may show forth thy praise among the nations of the earth. In the time of prosperity, fill our hearts with thankfulness, and in the day of trouble suffer not our trust in thee to fail; all which we ask through Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Prayer For The Army

(Armed Forces)

O Lord, God of Hosts, stretch forth, we pray thee, thine almighty arm to strengthen and protect the soldiers (marines, sailors, air force personnel) of our country. Support them in the day of battle, and in the time of peace keep them safe from all evil; endue them with courage and loyalty; and grant that in all things they may serve without reproach; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

It so important to remember that what we have here in the United States, freedom, is a gift from God. And, there are times that we have to defend it with the might of our armed forces.

On this Independence Day, say these prayers out loud and reflect on what they mean to you and those that you love.

And, do not forget to have a great picnic, take in a ballgame and see a fireworks show and remember those founders of this Great Land that put their lives on the line so that this nation could come into being and that we honor them by remembering what it means to be an American.