250 Years of Freedom: Gratitude, Prayer, and Hope

Dear Church Family,

As July 4th draws near, our nation prepares to mark its 250th birthday. This is a sacred mile-marker—an invitation to pause with grateful hearts and celebrate the remarkable story of the United States of America.

This is a time for patriotism. It is a time to honor those who sacrificed so we could enjoy the freedoms we often take for granted. Most of all, it is a time to thank God for His sovereign hand upon this nation through the centuries—through wars and peace, prosperity and hardship, progress and struggle. We have not been perfect, but we have been preserved. That is grace.

We especially cherish the religious liberty that allows us to gather freely, open God’s Word without fear, and proclaim the Gospel boldly. As the Apostle Paul wrote, “I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity” (1 Timothy 2:1-2 NLT).

The psalmist reminds us, “What joy for the nation whose God is the Lord, whose people he has chosen as his inheritance” (Psalm 33:12 NLT). And the greatest freedom we possess is not political—it is spiritual: “For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17 NLT).

As we celebrate, I invite you to join me in praying two specific prayers this week:

A Prayer for Gratitude and Celebration

Gracious Father, thank You for 250 years of Your watchful care over this nation. We praise You for the freedoms we enjoy and for the countless ways Your hand has guided, corrected, and blessed us. Give us humble, thankful hearts. Help us honor the sacrifices of those who came before us and live as faithful citizens who point others to the hope we have in Jesus. May this anniversary stir fresh gratitude in us and renewed love for You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

A Prayer for Those Who Will Try to Use This Time to Promote Other Ideologies

Heavenly Father, we lift up those who may attempt to use this national celebration to advance agendas that divide rather than unite, criticize rather than appreciate, or distract from genuine gratitude. Guard this moment, Lord. Soften hearts, open eyes, and redeem even these efforts for Your purposes. Give Your people wisdom, grace, and courage to respond with truth and love. May Your Spirit bring unity where there is division and draw many to the true freedom found only in Christ. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

Let these prayers guide your time with the Lord and your conversations with family and friends leading up to July 4th. Choose thankfulness. Choose unity. Choose hope.

I am grateful to serve Jesus alongside you in Ringgold, Frederick, and beyond. May the Lord bless you and your family with a meaningful celebration filled with joy and peace.

With a grateful heart,

Pastor Don Conley
Lead Pastor
Ringgold Church & GC3

LOCATIONS

Ringgold Location (10 AM Service time)

14416 Barkdoll Road

Hagerstown, MD 21742

Frederick Location (10:30 AM Service time)

2100 Rosemont Ave.

Frederick, MD 21702

Our mailing address is:

14420 Barkdoll Road, Hagerstown, MD 21742 United States

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USA 250 Celebration!