For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. – Romans 8:2 (NRSVUE)
As we celebrate Independence Day, some prayers for the day (taken from the Civil Air Patrol Book of Prayers):
Lord of the nations, you have blessed our land with the spirit of love and freedom. You have also blessed our ancestors with the will and strength to seek out and maintain that freedom, and we thank you for that. Keep that will and strength alive in us today, that we may continue to strive for true freedom for all people. Let us never fall into complacency simply because we have what we need, but help us always to remember that until all are well fed, until no one is homeless, until none live in fear, not one of us is absolutely free. Our prayer today is that you, O God, would keep us firmly on the path that works toward such true freedom for all. Continue to bless our nation and all nations. Hear our prayer. Amen.
Lord God Almighty, you have made all the peoples of the earth for your glory, to serve you in freedom and in peace. Give to the people of our country a zeal for justice and the strength of forbearance, that we may use our liberty in accordance with your gracious will. Amen.
God of our weary and silent tears, you have brought us this far on our way. We give you thanks for life, health and strength. We thank you for giving us this land and our heritage. Forgive us for the times we’ve thought only of ourselves and transgressed against ourselves, neighbors and you. Have mercy upon us. Bless the leadership of our nation at every level. Grant them the wisdom and courage to move our nation in a manner that will result in a productive economy, sound learning and a sensitive response to the needs of the populace. Grant us the wisdom and courage to always prove ourselves a people mindful of your favor and glad to do your will. Help us to rise above the human tendencies that oppress us and encourage oppression of others. Empower us to truly become “one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” In your name we pray. Amen.