Mittens for the Children

At this point, I've completed ten pairs of mittens for my special project. The results of work are such a blessing. I can't say how very much I have enjoyed creating these mittens, stitch by stitch by stitch. So far, no two pairs are alike in color. I'll not bore you with the specifics this time -- yarn is only yarn, after all. (chuckle) I believe the pictures will be sufficient.

America

Devotional by Pastor Willard Thomas; from Baptist Bread

Psalm 33:12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen...

Much more exciting than a fireworks display is the untold story of the Christian influence on the Declaration of Independence and the Fourth of July. In 1773, a growing feeling about British domination erupted so that, as the news was being celebrated, in the colonies they began to proclaim, "Death is better than slavery! A freeborn people are not required by the religion of Jesus Christ to submit to tyranny," and the word went up and down the colonies, "No king but Jesus!" "No book but the Bible!"

In 1776, the Continental Congress was in the greatest debate of all about the rise of this new nation. The representative from Pennsylvania stood to speak against independence. John Adams sat in silence until the representative finished; then he rose and said, "Before God, I believe the hour has come. My judgment approves this measure, and my whole heart is in it. All that I have, and all that I am, and all that I hope in this life, I am now ready here to stake upon it. And I leave off as I began, that live or die, survive or perish, I am for the Declaration. It is my living sentiment, and by the blessing of God it shall be my dying sentiment. Independence now, and Independence forever!"

Leviticus 25:10a And ye shall... proclaim liberty thoughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof:...

Patrick Henry's Stirring Address

Patrick Henry, March 23, 1775

No man thinks more highly than I do of the patriotism, as well as abilities, of the very worthy gentlemen who have just addressed the House. But different men often see the same subject in different lights; and, therefore, I hope it will not be thought disrespectful to those gentlemen if, entertaining as I do opinions of a character very opposite to theirs, I shall speak forth my sentiments freely and without reserve. This is no time for ceremony. The questing before the House is one of awful moment to this country. For my own part, I consider it as nothing less than a question of freedom or slavery; and in proportion to the magnitude of the subject ought to be the freedom of the debate. It is only in this way that we can hope to arrive at truth, and fulfill the great responsibility which we hold to God and our country. Should I keep back my opinions at such a time, through fear of giving offense, I should consider myself as guilty of treason towards my country, and of an act of disloyalty toward the Majesty of Heaven, which I revere above all earthly kings.

Mr. President, it is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth, and listen to the song of that siren till she transforms us into beasts. Is this the part of wise men, engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty? Are we disposed to be of the number of those who, having eyes, see not, and, having ears, hear not, the things which so nearly concern their temporal salvation? For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth; to know the worst, and to provide for it.