Hello, God. It's me, Mara.

You know, Lord, just sharing what a friend shared about John Quincy Adams, the sixth U.S. President, in 1837, at the age of 69, in delivering a Fourth of July speech at Newburyport, Massachusetts. Here is a copy of what Adams said:

"Why is it that, next to the birthday of the Savior of the world, your most joyous and most venerated festival returns on this day (the Fourth of July)? Is it not that, in the chain of human events, the birthday of the nation is indissolubly linked with the birthday of the Savior? That it forms a leading event in the progress of the Gospel dispensation? Is it not that the Declaration of Independence first organized the social compact on the foundation of the Redeemer's mission upon earth? That it laid the cornerstone of human government upon the first precepts of Christianity?"

"Do not accept anyone's revision of America's history; do not be moved by ridiculous accusations against patriotism and love of country; and do not accept the heretical and ludicrous arguments that God would never raise up a nation for the primary purpose of trumpeting the gospel.

"The flag has played a significant role throughout American history, flying proudly during times of war, strife, and triumph. It is a symbol that unites Americans of all backgrounds and beliefs, representing the shared ideals and aspirations of the nation. The Stars and Stripes remind us of the values and principles the nation was founded upon, including liberty, justice, and equality for all.

"On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States. Its design consisted of thirteen alternating red and white stripes representing the original thirteen colonies, along with a blue field in the upper left corner containing thirteen white stars arranged in a circle to symbolize a new constellation."

"For many of us, it is also a day to recommit to sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world."

Thank You, Lord - and God Bless America!

Love, Mara