By A. Ray Lee

In a few days, most Americans will celebrate Independence Day, which in my opinion is the greatest of all our national holidays. Churches, whose members treasure freedom of worship, will honor veterans in a special God and Country Service. Governmental offices and most private businesses will close for the day. Civic organizations will recognize those of all generations who paid the ultimate price in order that we may live free.  

Fireworks will light the sky. Families will celebrate with cookouts and picnics. I personally will watch “A Capital Fourth” as has been my custom for a number of years. Although programming has changed, it is my hope the event will continue to reveal the true meaning of the day and conclude with a stirring rendition of the “1812 Overture.”   

Yet some fringe groups with anti-American biases may march in protest to proclaim their agendas for drastic changes to our culture. Our nation is a land of people who strongly object when their freedoms are challenged. We do not sit idly by when our freedoms are eroding.   

Freedom always comes with a cost. It is never unchallenged. It must be defended by each new generation whether the battle is in cultural warfare or on fields of physical combat near or far. Some individuals may pay more than others but all of us have a part. The ultimate price has been paid by those who have responded to the call of their country in its defense. It is fitting that we give tribute to those of all generations who gave their all that we may be free.  

Some are justly exempt from military service but not from the challenges of maintaining freedom. I was in my third year of college when I received the “Dear Sir” letter from the draft board informing me my number had come to the top of the list advising me to report for a physical examination in view of being drafted. On the appointed date, I along with dozens of others endured the indignities which that required. I anxiously awaited the results to know how my life would be changed.   

My exemption from military duty came in the form of a notification. I had failed the physical because of a damaged knee and the two surgeries it had required. Others would have to fill my place. But that did not remove the obligation to live responsibly in gratitude for what others had done for me.    

America is not perfect but it remains the greatest land on earth. No other nation can come in as a close second. Let the bells ring out over all our land! 

Jesus said “Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free. If the Son therefore shall make you free, you shall be free indeed.” (John 8:32 and 36 KJV). Peter wrote live “as free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness.” (I Peter 2:16 KJV”).