The Meaning Of The Celebration

July 4, 2004 | Link To Us | Index | This sermon is for your spiritual edification and to spread a little hope and cheer. Nehemiah 8:10-12

Another day of fireworks, and screaming sticks and other things that shoot flames and sparks. They say people hate fires and yet firestarters are sold every day before independence day. Of course there are the warnings and the cautions, but yet there are probably a lot of fires that are started accidentally every year because someone got careless and too excited.

I am not trying to be a downer here but safeguards should be strictly paid attention to and make sure all warning labels on fireworks are read and heeded. Otherwise things could get real ugly, real fast.

On a happier note though. It is a time to celebrate the freedom this nation called the U.S. of A. has given it's citizens. Although I am guessing most kids are more concerned about explosions and sparks than they are about what our ancestors did to ensure their freedom.

It's like Christmas. People are mostly concerned with what they are getting for Christmas and whether they are able to acquisition the latest toy that all the other parents are frantically searching for. No matter to a lot of people that this holiday signifies the birth of Jesus the Christ. They want what they want and what they want to give to others.

So the problem then is that the significance or symbolism of a holiday is often ignored. I mean if you are going to celebrate the birthday dawning of a new nation, then why not take the time to read about this country. Find out about the freedoms that were fought for during the American Revolution. Why not read the Declaration of Independence that Thomas Jefferson wrote. Unfortunately most kids will say, "boring." Instead the need to be dazzled is lot more important to them.

The interesting thing about a relationship with God is that is one of growth and understanding and really learning about our place in society and to help answer the age old question, "Why am I here on this planet, and what am I supposed to accomplish?"

So, in short, really learn about the days you are celebrating. Don't forget the idea of the holiday and don't let the distractions keep you from a lasting relationship with God. Instead, be what you want to be so long as it is the will of God. And give God your thanks for the efforts He makes to improve your life.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me and others to not lose sight of why we are here on this Earth. Give us the understanding to know what you want for our lives. And thank you for all your many blessings. Amen.

Benediction: Now, Lord, Bless us in our daily lives. Help us to smell the roses whenever possible, to shine our light on those less fortunate than us, and lead us in the path we should go. For you are the light that keeps our path well lit. Help us to follow it, until we meet you, in a land where milk and honey abound, a place where our most wonderful dreams are fulfilled. Amen.

Hi, my name is Bryan, a messenger of hope who would love to hear from you. God Bless.

© 2004 Bryan Hill