In a famous letter to his wife Abigail, dated July 3, 1776, John Adams encouraged the celebration of Independence Day “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.”
Let Adams’s words (he was a devout Christian), remind us to pray for America on this national holiday. How should we pray for our nation? I can think of several important prayer requests: for our governmental leaders, for the healing of divisions, for the 2024 elections, for freedom to express our faith, for protection from all enemies, foreign and domestic, for forgiveness of our nation’s sins against a holy God.
The Book of Common Prayer provides us with a beautiful prayer for the nation. If you are inclined to join me in this, I humbly recommend that you use it as a guide to your praying for America today.
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 thy favor and glad to do thy will. Bless our land with honorable industry, sound learning, and pure manners. Save us from violence, discord, and confusion; from pride and arrogance, 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 a 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. Amen.
Now, having prayed, go enjoy your barbecue and fireworks, which President Adams also recommended for the celebration!
May God bless America.
Pastor Randy Faulkner