Fireworks

This week, I’ve been thinking about all the things I genuinely love about living in this country. Now, don’t worry—I’m not about to start singing “Proud to Be an American” from the church rooftop (though I might hum it a little too loudly while grilling burgers). But I do think it’s worth pausing to say: I’m grateful.

I’m grateful for the freedom to worship openly, to gather as a church without fear, and to speak our hearts and our faith out loud. I’m thankful for small-town parades and over-the-top fireworks, for cookouts and front porch conversations. I’m thankful for the rich spectrum of people, stories, and ideas that make this nation what it is—maybe not always perfect, but full of promise.

Loving your country doesn’t mean pretending it’s perfect. In fact, part of love is wanting the best for something, and doing your part to help it grow. As Christians, we’re called to seek the shalom of the places where we live (just like in my recent sermon on Jeremiah 29:7), to be peacemakers, bridge-builders, and light-bearers in our communities. That kind of love—humble, hopeful, and active—is something worth celebrating.

So this week, whether you’re lighting sparklers in the driveway, flipping hot dogs on the grill, or just enjoying a well-earned nap in a hammock, I hope you’ll take a moment to give thanks: for freedom, for family, for the chance to do good where you are, and for a God who blesses us not just for our own sake, but so we can be a blessing to others. Have a safe, joyful, and restful Fourth of July!

Rev Chris Hester