July 3, 2026 – Daily Devotional
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” -Philippians 4:8
One of the most important practices of our faith is gratitude. The intentional work of giving thanks allows us to see beauty in our world that is often overshadowed by the constant stream of negativity around us. Our practice of gratitude begins first with giving things to God. Secondly, our practice of gratitude allows us to see the many blessings we have. This week, as the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, I have taken some time to remember and give thanks for the blessings of this country.
I consider myself a student of history. I’ve read the writings of Thomas Paine, Benjamin Franklin, John and Abigail Adams, and many other leaders who helped bring our nation into existence. I hope you will take time to read some of these founding documents. They are powerful in both passion and logic. However, it was not history that gave me the best sense of gratitude this week, but visitors from around the world.
The World Cup has arrived in the United States. Soccer fans have taken over several of the cities. People from all over the world are in the United States to cheer on their teams. While they are here, they are experiencing our culture. I have truly enjoyed the reactions from fans in places like Germany, England, France, Portugal, Scotland, and Japan. They have been visiting places throughout the country and expressing their joy. They are trying brisket sandwiches at Buc-ee’s, shopping at Walmart, and visiting Bass Pro Shops. I have loved reading about fans from around the world interacting with people from the United States. It has truly become an event in which people from other countries remind us of what we have to be thankful for.
One great interaction took place in Boston (a fitting location as we celebrate the birth of our country). Sebastian is here in the United States to cheer on his home team, Germany. After he attended the match in Boston, Sebastian was looking for a way to get back to his hotel. He met a local man named Bob. Bob was attending the match with his family. They made quick friends with Sebastian and offered him a ride. Sebastian shared his thoughts on NBC. He made it clear that being in America helped him see past many stereotypes. Through tears, Sebastian said, “Americans are not rude, Germans are not rude, if we are together, we can achieve great things.”
As we celebrate our Nation’s birth, let us take time to be intentional about our gratitude. As we enjoy fireworks, hamburgers, hot dogs, ice cream, and more, let us give thanks, first to God who loves and sustains us, and secondly, for the many blessings each of us has. As the Apostle Paul wrote so long ago, “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
