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A Blessed Independence Day
Even amidst the turmoil of this present moment USA Independence Day is an opportunity to thank God for how he blesses us through our Country and her leaders. Even through we are not in the US we do plan on having a small celebration as a family with some good old fashion American food: Cheese Cake, Macaroni and Cheese, and Chili Dogs (also with cheese). I think we will also take time to reflect on Hymn 966 in the Lutheran Service book, Before You Lord, We Bow. This is a great hymn that has it all. It recognizes that God is the King of this world, thanks God for the blessings he provides through through our nation, prays for the Gospel to be spread and for people to be brought to repentance, and looks forward to the Coming of Christ!
Before You, Lord, we bow,
Our God who reigns above
And rules the world below,
Boundless in pow’r and love.
Our thanks we bring
In joy and praise,
Our hearts we raise
To You, our King!
The nation You have blest
May well Your love declare,
From foes and fears at rest,
Protected by Your care.
For this bright day,
For this fair land—
Gifts of Your hand—
Our thanks we pay.
May ev’ry mountain height,
Each vale and forest green,
Shine in Your Word’s pure light,
And its rich fruits be seen!
May ev’ry tongue
Be tuned to praise
And join to raise
A grateful song.
Earth, hear your Maker’s voice;
Your great Redeemer own;
Believe, obey, rejoice,
And worship Him alone.
Cast down your pride,
Your sin deplore,
And bow before
The Crucified.
And when in pow’r He comes,
Oh, may our native land
From all its rending tombs
Send forth a glorious band,
A countless throng,
With joy to sing
To heav’n’s high King
Salvation’s song!
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