VISION

“I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. —Yet through all the Gloom I can see the rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means.”

—JOHN ADAMS, FOUNDING FATHER AND SECOND U.S. PRESIDENT, 1776 

MEDITATION

The cost of our freedom cannot be calculated. Our founders were aware of the toil, blood, and treasure that would be sacrificed to gain independence, but they couldn’t have known the degree. Because they had a divinely inspired vision in their hearts and minds, they entrusted the expense to God. He revealed to them the coming light, then imbued them with the strength and wisdom to ignite it.  

What a beautiful way for John Adams to describe his vision for America in a letter to his wife, Abigail, on July 3, 1776. President Adams, along with the majority of the colonists, believed the glory at the end of the sacrifice was more than worth all the means. Sacrifice, with a heart intent on the will of God, produces hope and light. What a poignant reminder of the path of our Savior. “For it was fitting for Him, for whom are all things and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings” (Hebrews 2:10).

Leaders and citizens of the thirteen colonies chose to stand as a united people, willing to risk their lives and livelihood. The signing of the U.S. Declaration of Independence took courage. This decision was proof of a deep commitment to trust God and look ever forward. Adams saw “rays of ravishing Light and Glory”. The founding fathers maintained a vision and a hope that was anchored in faith, humility, and the fear of God. 

Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. Proverbs 29:18 KJV

(excerpt from GOD BLESS AMERICA, Scriptures, Devotions, and Prayers for Our Nation)