One Nation Under God

July 8, 2026

Leadership Notes

     What an amazing holiday weekend! On top of the booming displays from sea-to-shining-sea, nature put on quite a display in our little corner of God’s world. From what I’ve been hearing, we’re all recovering, in one way or another. God is good all the time…

     I do want to wrap-up a few odds-and-ends surrounding the celebration of America250.

     The first is the Mr. T quote I shared on Sunday:

“Since we are ‘One Nation Under God,’ let us continue to thank

and praise His Holy name for all blessings he has bestowed upon

America. Amen thank you Jesus.”

The guy is short, sweet, and honest.

     Next up, from former actress Justine Bateman. She is most remembered for her role on Family Ties:

“America is a place, merged with an idea. Americans are those

who agree to this idea. The idea is that anything is possible and

that you can live your life the way you want, so long as that way

does not impinge on others’ ability to live the way they want.”

“As the current custodians of America, we will keep this idea

sacred, so that it is healthy and alive for those who come after us.

Just like those of the past 250 years did for us. Happy 4^th of July.”

     Do you know what always brings a smile to my face? The fact that those who gripe and complain the most about America are still living here. You know what I like to say…some people only want others to be as miserable as they are. Not this guy…I resonate with the Apostle Paul:

“Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned, in          

whatever situation I am, to be content. I know how to be brought

low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I

have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance

and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

{Philippians 4:11-13}

     I close with two short but pithy observations.

     #1:

“Real men neither seek approval nor do they avoid disapproval.

Immune to other’s opinions, they chart their own course.”

     #2:

“Success isn’t found in perfect conditions. It’s built by imperfect

people who choose to show up anyway. Let your next step be a

step taken with heart, and keep stepping! What’s you next step

today?”

     Be of Good Cheer,

               Richard