LIFE, LIBERTY, AND THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS
Today our friends in United States celebrate their Independence Day annual holiday. It is now 244 years since they set up a new government and declared their independence. We all know from history that there have been high and low moments in US history. There are lots of things to admire and give thanks for the ways United States has demonstrated leadership and provided support to nations around the world. At the same time, there are numerous examples of actions based on values that promote self-interest more than care and concern for others.
During this COVID-19 pandemic, and particularly during these days, we watch with concern as case numbers surge seemingly out of control and hear not just everyday folks, but those who are giving leadership talk about inviting others to events where they do not need to wear a face mask and where social distancing will not be practiced. With daily records being set for those falling ill and with predictions that the current 50,000+ daily cases could easily surge to 100,000 daily cases, we know there is a need for strong and responsible leaders to stand up and guide people in a way that protects them as much as possible not just from the disease but from their own faulty thinking.
In 1776, as the nation was being established, it’s founders wrote these enduring words in the Declaration of Independence:
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created
equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable
rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of
happiness.
Jesus Christ had lots to say about life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Jesus clearly told us:
I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
John 10:10
Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
John 8:31-32
Then in the famous words of the Beatitudes, He describes how we can actually achieve happiness and fulfillment in life that is richer and deeper than anyone or anything can offer. Each of these blessings begins with the word “beati,” which translates to "happy", "rich", or "blessed." And so we use these words as a prayer to bless our friends in United States and for all of us so we can experience the goodness and joy God has planned for us today.
Heavenly Father, we’re so grateful that we can come to You needy and actually that’s the truth of our situation – we need You. Help us to live in that dependence on Your goodness and be sustained by You in every area of our life.
Blessed are those who are spiritually needy.
Matthew 5:3
We pray that those things that make Your heart sad will do the same for ours. And as we experience sadness, may we know Your uplifting and strengthening comfort.
Blessed are those who are sad. They will be comforted.
Matthew 5:4
Forgive us for the many ways we think we know best or that we are self-sufficient. Help us to live in the life-giving humility that all life comes from You and everything we need to sustain us is a gift from You.
Blessed are those who are humble. They will be given the earth.
Matthew 5:5
So many people live in ways that are not right in Your eyes. We pray that hearts and minds would be touched and brought to a realization that Your ways, God are right. Help us to speak up for and give witness to those things that are just and true.
Blessed are those who are hungry and thirsty for what is right.
They will be filled.
Matthew 5:6
There are so many people in so many places that need mercy. Help us to be those who reach out today to bring Your compassion to as many people as You bring across our path.
Blessed are those who show mercy. They will be shown mercy.
Matthew 5:7
We don’t want to live complicated lives. Help us to be simple and to filter out all those things that are impurities in thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. We want to see You, God because You are amazing and in You is the fullness of life we seek.
Blessed are those whose hearts are pure.
They will see God.
Matthew 5:8
In a world of anger and the pushing forward of personal agendas and personal rights, would You help us to be those who make peace. Help us to see all sides of issues and live and speak in such a way that we can help others tear down walls and build bridges.
Blessed are those who make peace.
They will be called children of God.
Matthew 5:9
And no matter what the opinions or actions of others is, we pray to persevere in what is right. You will ultimately work Your good plan for us and in the right time all things will come to those who love You.
Blessed are those who suffer for doing what is right.
The kingdom of heaven belongs to them.
Matthew 5:10
Your kingdom ways are so upside down to the principles that so many live today and we ask that You will help us be strong in Your word and You way even as Your people seem to be more and more marginalized by laws and customs of our countries.
Blessed are you when people make fun of you
and hurt you because of me.
You are also blessed when they tell all kinds of evil lies
about you because of me.
Matthew 5:11
And so today, we will live in joy and we pray that our friends in United States and around the world will experience the deep and lasting joy and freedom that You have for them. In You, and only in You, can we all truly find life, liberty and happiness.
Be joyful and glad. Your reward in heaven is great.
In the same way, people hurt the prophets who lived long ago.
Matthew 5:12
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