Something to be thankful for on July 4th

It is July 4th week and as we prepare to celebrate, my mind often goes back to history.  On the news, there has been a steady debate regarding statues and whether various leaders with checkered pasts are worth our honor.  One thing that strikes me about this debate is that even the leaders who we most often respect, were very flawed beings.  In Psalms 14:2-3, the Psalmist writes, “The Lord looks down from heaven on all mankind to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God.  All have turned away, all have become corrupt, there is no one who does good, not even one.”  Even on our best days, we are sinful beings who have a bent toward evil.  I know that is true of me and it makes me very thankful for God’s grace.  Even though I am a mess worthy of nothing but judgment, God continues to forgive and show his love.  Looking ahead to this weekend, I will be remembering that as I breath in the clear Minnesota air and celebrate the freedom that God has given us.