The Pastor’s Piece – Pastor Kevin Cernek, FCFI Chaplain

FCFI

June 21, 2026

Let Freedom Ring!

This year, the United States of America celebrates 250 years of independence, a milestone that will culminate in celebrations across the nation on July 4th. Freedom has always been the central theme of Independence Day. We often hear the phrase, “Freedom isn’t free,” and few would disagree. The liberties we enjoy today were secured through sacrifice, courage, and a commitment to principles that have guided our nation since its founding.

Inscribed on the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia are the words, “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof.” Those words are not merely a patriotic slogan, they are a direct quotation from Leviticus 25:10. In an age when discussions of faith in public life often generate controversy, it is worth noting that many of our nation’s founders spoke openly about God and the role faith played in shaping their understanding of liberty and self-government.

As we celebrate the blessings of liberty, it is worth considering several historical observations that highlight the influence of faith and Biblical principles throughout our nation’s history:

Did you know that as you approach the building that houses the United States Supreme Court, you can see a row of history’s great lawgivers carved near the top, with Moses prominently displayed holding the Ten Commandments?

Did you know that the large oak doors leading into the Supreme Court courtroom contain engravings of the Ten Commandments?

Did you know that as you sit inside the courtroom, you can see on the wall right above where the Supreme Court judges sit, a display of the Ten Commandments?

Did you know there are Bible verses etched in stone all over the federal buildings and monuments in Washington, D.C.?

Did you know that James Madison, often called the “Father of the Constitution,” emphasized the importance of self-government and personal virtue in maintaining a free society? Our fourth president made the following statement: “We have staked the whole of all our political institutions upon the capacity of mankind for self-government, upon the capacity of each and all of us to govern ourselves, to control ourselves, to sustain ourselves according to the Ten Commandments of God.”

Did you know that every session of Congress opens with prayer, a tradition that dates back to the earliest years of the Republic?

Did you know that Thomas Jefferson expressed concern that the judiciary might one day exceed its constitutional role by creating law rather than merely interpreting it, resulting in what he described as the potential for “the rule of few over many”?

It is encouraging to reflect on the Biblical principles that influenced our nation’s founding and the enduring impact they have had on our country. Today, the Bible is the world’s best-selling book and remains a source of timeless truth, wisdom, and direction for life. As we devote ourselves to reading and studying God’s Word, we grow in our understanding of His will and become better prepared to live out its teachings and apply its principles in our homes, our communities, and our daily lives. As we search for truth and direction in our lives, God’s Word remains the source of timeless wisdom and encouragement. In Jeremiah 15:19, God says, “If you repent, I will restore you so that you may serve me.” And in James 4:8 we are reminded, “Draw near to unto God and He will draw near to you.”

C S. Lewis, in his book The Screwtape Letters, describes a man who goes into a library to read and meditate. His mind is suddenly opened to deep thoughts of God. Confronted with his own standing before God, he starts thinking in terms of his eternal welfare. Then, Lewis says, the demons that are assigned to keep him from discovering the truth call his attention to the sounds on the street, to the newsboy (back when they had newsboys) calling out the latest news, and to the fact that he is hungry, ready for lunch. And that is all it takes. All thoughts of God disappear, and he is involved in the mundane activity of life. And, from the point of view of the satanic emissaries, he is delivered from this danger of thinking about God. That is what happens to the callous mind and heart.

This Fourth of July, my family and I will be giving thanks to God for the many blessings He has bestowed upon our nation and for the privilege of living in a country where we can participate in the process of self-government. We will also be praying that Americans will seek God’s wisdom, guidance, and truth as we face the challenges and opportunities of our time.

As we celebrate our 250th anniversary on Independence Day, may we be grateful for the freedoms we enjoy as Americans and for the internal freedom and hope God offers to all who seek Him. May God richly bless you and your family as you celebrate our nation’s heritage and the many blessings of liberty.

Kevin Cernek is Lead Pastor of Martintown Community Church in Martintown, Wisconsin.