7 Ways to Focus on God this Independence Day
"…I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all those who are in authority." I Tim. 2:1-2a (HSCB)
It’s not just about celebrating our country. July 4th can focus our church’s attention on praying for our country. Looking for fresh ideas for your church to celebrate July 4th this year?
Christian Citizenship Sunday
Invite community leaders to attend a patriotic Sunday worship service. Ask them to arrive early at the pastor’s office for prayer and seating instructions. Briefly introduce them during the worship service and invite church members to stand to indicate they will continue to pray for the leaders. Offer a special prayer for them and, as a reminder of the church’s prayers, give each leader a memorial gift, such as a coffee mug, bookmark or desk clock, imprinted with the church name and 1 Timothy 2:1-2.
Ask God to Bless America
Take a moment during worship to invite worshippers to kneel and ask God’s blessings on our country. A flute duet or acoustical guitar could play “God Bless America” as His people pray.
Drum Cadence
Begin the Sunday worship nearest July 4th with a formal presentation of the American and Christian flags. Invite ROTC, scouts or Royal Ambassadors to wear uniforms, enter to a drum cadence, and lead the congregation in pledges.
Community Leaders
Invite community leaders or military servicemen to lead the prayer, pledge or read Scripture during worship near July 4th Sunday.
Pray for Government Leaders
Print a list of government leaders, from school board members to the President of the United States. Invite church members to select a leader, send an encouraging note, and commit to pray for him or her regularly for one year.
Children’s 4th of July Parade
Advertise it everywhere. All the kids in town are invited to dress in red, white and blue and be in the church’s July 4th parade. Kids may walk or ride a decorated bike or skateboard. Some may carry flags or banners. It’s an informal, small-townish parade, and can take place in the church parking lot. Alternately, you may be able to obtain permission to close a one-block section of the street in front of the church. Designate a parade route, and encourage parents to bring lawn chairs. Mark a staging area for kids to gather, then space them a few feet apart. A big “God Bless America” banner can lead the parade, and the pastor and his wife may ride a go-cart or golf cart as parade marshals. Children’s Sunday school teachers distribute invitations to viewers to bring their children to church next Sunday. Make it fun for everyone. Hokey? Oh yes!—but great family fun.
Fireworks viewing
If your church site offers a good view of local fireworks, post an outdoor sign inviting neighbors to bring lawn chairs and enjoy the fireworks with you. Serve popcorn and drinks and provide sparklers for the kids. Demonstrate Christian joy and include guests in festivities. Give each guest a verbal and written invitation to worship with you on Sunday.
This Independence Day, challenge your church to “make the most of every opportunity” (Eph. 5:16), and share Jesus during July 4th celebrations.
More "Fresh Ideas" for your ministry are available in these practical books by Diana Davis:
Also, check out Diana's official website at www.keeponshining.com
Diana Davis lives in Indianapolis, where her husband Steve serves as the Executive Director for the State Convention of Baptists in Indiana. A popular women’s conference speaker, Diana has ministered to women’s groups internationally. She especially loves encouraging pastors' wives and deacons’ wives.
Other free articles from Diana Davis on LifeWay.com:
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