President Obama has planned a day like many of us as we celebrate the 4th of July. We look forward to fireworks, BBQ, pool parties and time with friends and family. President Obama honors military families by providing them a unique glimpse at the White House. You can actually watch a livestream of the events.
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6:00 p.m. ET: The President and First Lady attend the "Salute to the Military" July 4th celebration at the White House; the President delivers remarks
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8:10 p.m. ET: USO concert for troops and military families featuring recording artist Pitbull
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9:10 p.m. ET: Fireworks show on the National Mall
President Obama's day didn't start there however, following in the footsteps of previous presidents, he also took part in one of many naturalization ceremonies happening across the Country. In his speech from today's ceremony Obama recognized how many people want to be able to celebrate with us.
" Today, on this Fourth of July, all across the country-- from Thomas Jefferson's Monticello to the Alamodome in Texas-- immigrants from around the world are taking the oath of citizenship. And many of them have worked and sacrificed for years to get to this moment. All of them have done it for something none of us should ever take for granted: the right to be called an American, from this moment, and forever after."
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The President's words should echo in our hearts, and we should ask ourselves, have we lost sight of the true meaning of Independence Day? Have we as a nation forgotten the edict of preceding generations and biblical commands? Have we forgotten why we as a nation should be united celebrating the dream of our founding fathers, their courage and bravery, and that of every member of the armed forces that has served our nation?
In 1970 Billy Graham challenged the American people to be proud to be Americans, but as Christians Billy Graham's words are a call to action, similar to Paul's encouraging instruction to TImothy. Paul urges
"that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus" 1 Timothy 2:1-5 (ESV)
Graham called us to honor America, as she has always stood for liberty, protection and opportunity, and certainly not take these ideals for granted, as the president warned. We should bond as Americans, and we should celebrate and honor our unity in these pursuits, in the face of our myriad differences.
As Christians, Remember God in your celebration, who gave us the need for these pursuits and ideals, and pray that God Blesses all Americans.
(Melissa Pittman Contributed to this Article.)
