FOUNDER'S FRIDAY--THOMAS NELSON, JR.

Welcome once again to Founder's Friday on my blog--my little attempt to highlight the good and virtuous leaders of America's past. While lately all kinds of behavior seems to run rampant in this country--even among those in the public eye--I want to focus on the good character qualities of the patriots of the past. I hope you enjoy today's highlighted American.

Thomas Nelson, Jr. was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. He was from Virginia and stood for freedom and patriot's ideals from early in his career. Among many other legislative titles and distinctions, he was once a governor. At one point in his career he used his personal money to help raise an army. He seemed to be eager sacrifice his own property and lands to aid the cause of freedom. It is said that during one particular skirmish British officers occupied his home. He encouraged his home to be fired upon for the sake of his patriotic cause.

My goal in highlighting some of the incidents of this man's life is to bring up the question: What are we willing to sacrifice for our country? Some have given all. Some like Thomas Nelson, Jr., were willing to sacrifice their homes and fortunes. We have a rich heritage of freedom that was bought at a price by men and women who were willing to make sacrifices for causes they believed in. I would like to think that same patriotic fervor burns in my own heart.

On this "Good Friday" 2010, while remembering patriotic sacrifices, surely the sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the most important and monumental sacrifice in history. As we remember Jesus' death on this day, I think it is fitting to talk about sacrifices. It is a courageous act to give one's life for a friend. Jesus modeled the greatest example of this. He became sin for us when He was pure and innocent--totally sinless. Surely it is a noble thing to lay aside one's own agenda and benefits to serve others. May God receive much glory today as Jesus' death is remembered--for it gives us ultimate freedom, freedom from sin and eternal death.

We are not facing the kinds of sacrifices that the 'signers' and 'founders' of our nation faced. Surely we can make some simple sacrifices. May I suggest that we go to prayer on behalf of our nation?After all the Bible urges Christians to do so. When is the last time you prayed for your country? What about fasting? Are we willing to give up food and add that sacrifice to our prayers on behalf of America? These suggestions are small indeed. No one has asked us to give up our homes or fortunes. Surely we can pray, fast, write letters, campaign for righteous candidates, vote, and make the necessary sacrifices that will save this nation from destruction. Will you join me? Blessings, LORI