At this time of year when we celebrate our nation’s freedom, I thought it might be a good time to write down a few thoughts on the rights and privileges that come with living in a free country. Just as our forefathers understood that the freedom of the governed came first from the Creator, but also would need to be upheld by the courage and steadfastness of their actions as citizens, so we too, would be wise to call these things to mind. I have taken the liberty of ‘borrowing’ some terminology from our nation’s original Declaration of Independence (US 1776), and wrote creatively from my own viewpoint of the Christian faith. In that light, and in the spirit of celebration, here is my own personal Declaration of Dependence:
In the course of human events, it sometimes becomes necessary to remind ourselves of what it is we truly hold most dear and to proclaim again, with utmost conviction and boldness of voice, those things that are the key components of our life here in this place.
Every person is equal in value and has certain rights and privileges endowed to them by their Creator. Every individual has the right to life and liberty, and the right to pursue happiness. I hold these truths to be self-evident; along with the one vital truth that, apart from Him, I would not have abundant life, or genuine liberty, and my selfish pursuits of happiness only serve to prove my unfitness for the task.
As our forefathers declared their intent to separate wholly and completely from the King of Britain due to laws that they deemed unfair and unconscionable, I put forth the following declaration:
The history of the present king of this world is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute tyranny over this world. To prove this, let facts be submitted to a candid world. (US 1776)
He has refused the authority of Jesus Christ as the Son of God, and the proclamation of His holy Word.
He works constantly to discourage, defeat and otherwise cause to despair, the children of God in this world. Indeed, apart from the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, this world would be a place of continual unhappiness and loss.
He wages war against the children of God and has plundered our churches and destroyed the lives of our people.
He plots deception and infiltrates the highest offices of our land, wreaking havoc and causing confusion and conflict wherever possible. If it were possible, even God’s elect would be led astray by his deceptions.
He specifically seeks to destroy the pillars of our communities, the very institutions which bring life and fellowship and healing — marriages, schools, places of worship — as he introduces new ‘laws’ and manner of lifestyle that seem right to men, but ultimately will lead to death.
Because of these and so much more, today I again declare that I am completely dependent on the grace and mercy of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
He is the true and living King who brings abundant life, freedom from the tyranny of sin and death, and more than happiness: lasting joy, even in the midst of unthinkable oppression.
This King I commit myself to daily, under whose rule I labor gladly, to bring His message of peace and hope to a world longing for life and freedom.
He has proven Himself worthy of my loyalty and trust by His expression of indescribable love and faithfulness: the giving of His own life, for my sake, in fact for the sake of anyone who will believe.
This is the King to whom my allegiance is due and to whom I will gladly lay down my life in order that His truth is proclaimed throughout our land.
This is my Declaration of Dependence, this day of July 3, 2019.
What do you think?
Is this a document you would be willing to sign?
What can you do that is of eternal value today?
Until next time, grace & peace to you, dear reader!
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