It was hot in Philadelphia, 87 degrees with a wind from the southwest, according to Jefferson in the film 1776, as the 56 men, the cream of their colonies, continued to deliberate on the Resolution for Independency proposed by Richard Henry Lee.
Other colonies now favored cutting the ties. During this time General Washington was off fighting the overwhelming number of British and Hessian troops, sending messages daily to the men who were about ready to pledge their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor, not knowing what would transpire.
Unlike certain elected leaders today, they were not raking in billions from questionable deals made due to their positions. Many would lose their homes, and although none were executed by the British some died as a result of imprisonment or from illness while on the run. Each one of them took risks unthinkable to us today, but did so because they believed in what they were doing, not just to become even more wealthy.
Prayer or the Day
Searching for direction in our lives, we come to you, O God,
Burdened by the cares we have, we turn to you;
For we long for the peace that only you can give.
Be in our midst, Holy One, as we seek new paths
As we move toward a future that we cannot see.
In the name of the One who gives us vision,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Our ancestors ... possessed a right, which nature has given to all men, of departing from the country in which chance, not choice has placed them. Thomas Jefferson, 1774
Great necessities call out great virtues
Abigail Adams (1744-1818)
One generation shall laud your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.
On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I meditate;
I shall proclaim the might of your awesome deeds, and I will declare their greatness;
They shall celebrate the fame of your abundant goodness,
And sing aloud of your righteousness.
Psalm 145: 4-7