July 5, 2026

This morning … getting ready for our one service at 9:30 — to “celebrate America” … I guess we all can take a moment to say “thanks”—– for the humble blessings coming our way. In the midst of the struggles we all face … in the midst of the many divisions that surround us … yes: “thank-you.” To all the soldiers who serve or have served … so we may taste the gift of freedom today. To all the people in our lives … who have gone the “extra mile” … so we may may chase our dreams and go to work everyday. We will read these words today … inscribed on the Statue of Liberty: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free” We may be tired … we may feel poor … but we all yearn for that breath of freedom —– to follow that star, wherever it may lead us. And then in our closing song: “America, America God shed your grace on Thee.” My each of us … even in the toughest of times … live with a spirit of grace in our hearts. Reaching out to those in need … being a shoulder of strength for someone who can’t “go it” alone … allowing the spirit of a humble carpenter to come alive in the way we walk and care. Yes, the 4th of July is more than a day. It’s an invitation to walk with God’s spirit, in the steps we take and the words we share. Peace to all — Don