By Betsy Ore Glass

And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” – Mark 16:15

Our country is having a birthday! In years past, we would celebrate with friends and families enjoying cookouts and fireworks together and maybe even a baseball game. We would offer a prayer of thanksgiving for our freedoms and be grateful for the opportunities this country provides. This year, there will still be get-togethers but now we must socially distance. Wearing masks on a hot July day will be the new normal, while worries of work, income and virus linger in our thoughts.

We know the real truth of the supernatural God we serve. He is our safe place. All of what is going on in our country and in our world is no surprise to Him. In the book of James, it says, “We can expect trials.” Maybe this is one of those times.

Our country has weathered many storms. Our forefathers wrote up the guidelines and rules for us to have a successful nation. We are to pursue happiness. Lady Liberty will survive this new storm too. As long as God governs our nation, we can enjoy a safe haven. It is when people turn from God that evil prevails. We have free speech in this country and that is good, but when it erupts into hate and destruction and more, we must take note. Our country needs our prayers now more than ever. Our law enforcers, healthcare workers, our local, state and national leaders and our first responders need us.

I have had many friends say, “What can I do with my time? I can’t go out in this pandemic, I have no resources as I lost my job and so on.” We have prayer. We have work to do if we take heed of today’s scripture. There are those that are lost. They don’t believe in anything. If we are willing, God will put us in situations where we can share His Word and hopefully bring another person to Christ. Bringing this world back to God one person at a time. Try making phone calls, write an email or pen a handwritten note to initiate a conversation. That’s what we can do. That’s how we can help. Prayer. Our country is depending on us and our prayers. Happy Birthday America! God Bless America!

Betsy Ore Glass has long-standing ties to the Outer Banks. From Virginia Beach, her family bought a vacation cottage in the 60s and her love of the area began. Later in the 90s, Betsy and her husband bought a weekend cottage and introduced the area to their children. Then Betsy’s parents retired to KDH where the family gathered often. Reach her at betsyglass1@gmail.com or read additional Reflections at www.betsyoreglass.com.

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