After a long debate, the Continental Congress finally reached a decision. They voted to declare independence from Britain on July 2, 1776. The next night, John Adams returned to his rooming house to write two of the most famous letters in American history by candlelight.

Addressing his wife Abigail, he noted the birth of a new nation.

Read John Adams’ Independence Day messages here
by Michael Medved at Townhall.

In a prior letter to (his wife) Abigail (in 1775), Adams went even further in emphasizing the association of patriotism and religiosity – a connection maintained with interruption from his time to our own. “Statesmen may plan and speculate for liberty, but is Religion and Morality alone which can establish the principles upon which freedom can securely stand,” he wrote. “A patriot must be a religious man.”

With his words in mind, it makes sense for so many churches to sponsor special July 4 th programs, and to emphasize the always appropriate messages of “God bless America” and “America, America, God shed his grace on thee.” The last verse of “The Star Spangled Banner” contains the lines – “And triumph we must/As our cause it is just/And this may our motto/”In God is our trust.”

May we observe our nation’s founding in the spirit of our founders – combining celebration with solemnity, and expressing our devotion to God and to country.

Also, Rick Moran is ‘liveblogging’ the Continental Congress! starting July 2nd, 1776, and he has a second post up from July 3, 1776. I enjoy Rick’s blog, particularly when it comes to historical remembrances such as Washington’s birthday, the 4th of July and other memorable dates throughout history; he reminds us of things we should more often remember.

Have a pleasant 4th of July, but while doing so, remember those who’ve stood and today are standing in harm’s way, who’ve sacrificed so much for the noble ideas of our predecessors that we celebrate today. God bless. Have a happy and safe 4th of July.