Independence Day - America 230 years

Our country is 230 years old today. Gosh, I remember when we celebrated our 200th Birthday!
Could 30 years have passed this quickly? In thinking about our country the prayer that we opened service with on Sunday seems very appropriate to the thoughts I have today:

Prayer for 4th of July:

“In singing the old songs and celebrating our history, our hearts swell with emotion for our country and our home. We both love America and we worry about its future. We are thankful for our freedom yet reluctant to work actively to protect them. We are grateful for our prosperity yet concerned of what we do to those around the world who are not as privileged. Forgive us, God, for all the ways we fail to trust in Jesus’ vision of the Kingdom of God. Forgive us for being afraid and for losing hope. Give us courage and wisdom to live with justice, to do what is right, and to open our hearts to love that does not see borders. Shape us into your people as we put ourselves into your hands, O Holy One. Amen.”
Opening Prayer – Hope United Methodist Church, Duluth, MN
July 2, 2006 Worship. – Rev. Michelle Hargrave, Pastor