by: Kris Mineau (President Emeritus)

This long weekend we commemorate the birth of the greatest country on earth. With fireworks, parades and backyard cookouts, Americans will celebrate the stars and stripes and the values and freedoms for which we have come to be known around the world.

There is no doubt that America is still the greatest nation in the world and a country to be proud of, but like many other patriots, I fear the path we continue to accelerate down. Our first freedoms of religion and speech are being curtailed. The voice of the people is being silenced by arrogant elected officials and unelected judges. Our values are under constant attack, and too often the church is staying on the sidelines.

The United States of America is 238 years old on Friday, the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Our Founding Fathers and patriots of all ages, genders, religions and races committed their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor to secure our independence from an oppressive crown. Never forget that today we have patriots continuing that fight both here on our shores and overseas. The brave men and women of the United States Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard risk their lives day in and day out not only for our freedom but for that of oppressed peoples around the world. My wife, Lura, and I are particularly grateful that our son arrived home safe last week from a one-year military tour in Iraq.

The battle for our future rages on, and MFI will be there fighting with you, remembering first and foremost that this is a spiritual battle for the heart and soul of our nation. On Sunday, millions of believers around the nation will fall on their knees in humility, seeking God’s face in repentance so that He might forgive our sins and heal our land. We must continue to ask God to bless America, especially in these difficult economic and moral times.

Have a safe and most enjoyable Independence Day weekend, and as always, we salute the men and women who throughout history have fought to gain our independence, defend freedom and preserve the union.