The day we remember the words “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” and “endowed by our creator.” These were not written at the time by patriots but by rebels who had enough. Read the entire document to your children, and you will remember how often these same rebels tried and tried to get government to be responsive to these “inalienable rights.” Only when all else had failed did they declare “independence.”
The precious words “Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” have undergone change over the years, as most certainly have the words “all men are created equal.” But the fundamental concept hasn’t wavered. I am reminded that as followers of Christ were charged to “oppose evil and cruelty” in whatever form it takes whether it be meted out by governments or individuals.
Enjoy today’s celebration for what it symbolizes, but tomorrow put the classic words into action.
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