Stewarding the Gift of Freedom

Today, on the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence, I’m simply grateful.

Grateful for a land that has given generations the opportunity to worship freely, raise families, serve neighbors, and pursue lives marked by faith and hope.

From the beginning of Scripture, God has been a God who prepares places for His people. He promised Abraham a land where future generations would be blessed (Genesis 12:1–3). He reminded Moses that He was leading His people into “a good and spacious land” (Exodus 3:8). Joshua stood before Israel and declared that not one of God’s promises had failed as they entered the land He had given them (Joshua 21:43–45). Even Jeremiah spoke to exiles, urging them to seek the peace and flourishing of the place where they lived (Jeremiah 29:7).

Throughout the Bible, land was never merely something to possess. It was something to steward. A gift from God to cultivate, protect, and pass faithfully to the next generation.

That’s why today shouldn’t be about politics. It shouldn’t divide us.

It should remind us to be thankful.

As someone whose family heritage runs through the Evangelical Friends (Quaker) tradition, I’m especially grateful for those who sought a different way. William Penn believed peace with Native peoples was not only possible but essential. Rather than conquering through force, he pursued friendship through fair treaties, shared meals, honest trade, and mutual respect. Pennsylvania’s early history became known for unusually peaceful relationships between Quakers and the Lenape people, demonstrating that faithfulness to Christ could shape the way we treated our neighbors.

I’m proud of those who helped build this nation.

I’m proud of those who have defended it.

I’m thankful for every veteran who wore the uniform before me and every man and woman who serves today. As a former Air Force Combat Camera photojournalist, I know freedom has always carried a cost. I’m equally grateful for our first responders who continue to stand in the gap for our communities every single day.

Freedom is never something to take for granted.

As followers of Jesus, we also remember that while we celebrate the blessings of this nation, our deepest freedom is found in Christ. Because of Him, we are free from sin, free to love, free to serve, and free to become the people God created us to be.

Today I celebrate both gifts with gratitude.

Happy Independence Day.

May God continue to bless America—not merely with prosperity or power, but with wisdom, humility, justice, courage, and hearts that seek Him above all else.