July, 2007 Here’s My Heart... INDEPENDENCE is one of those words which can be negative or positive, depending on it's usage. WHEN SPEAKING ABOUT PEOPLE, it often has a negative connotation. You know, "Well, he's just showing his 'independence'!" Or, "She sure can be 'independent'!" Or even, "It's almost impossible to help someone who is so 'independent'!" BUT, WHEN SPEAKING OF OUR NATION, I hope independence is a word that will always be positive. Our blessed nation, with all of it's problems, is still the envy of the world. And, ironically, it is that very envy that often causes other nations of the world to look upon us with disdain, and if possible, some of them would take away our independence altogether. THE INDEPENDENCE WE WILL CELEBRATE during the early part of July did not come cheap, as you well know. The blood of many men and women has covered the ground of many nations around the world, and does to this day. It is that blood which allows us to celebrate our freedom and independence. IT REMINDS US of an even greater independence, and that was not "cheap" either. Our independence from the penalty of sin, death, hell, and the grave was also purchased with blood, the blood of Jesus, our Savior, our Lord, our King. PLEASE REMEMBER, as you and your family celebrate this Independence Day, those men and women who are guarding our freedom. And, remember also, the "Cross Of Calvary", our TRUE symbol of independence and freedom. Blessings. -Brother Jim