Why is the Declaration of Independence Important Today?

Let me count the ways! There are many reasons why the Declaration remains the most important document in the history of the United States of America. I will address one answer today, and follow with more answers later.

At the time of the ratification of the Declaration, on July 2, 1776, John Adams, signer of the Declaration and second president of the United States, wrote these words to his wife Abigail:

"I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding generations, as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward, forever more."

"You will think me transported with enthusiasm but I am not. I am well aware of the toil and blood and treasure that it will cost us to maintain this declaration, and support and defend these states. Yet through all the gloom I can see the rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the end is more than worth all the means..."

With these words, John Adams tells us why the Declaration is still important. It signifies the Day of Deliverance -- the separation with Great Britain. That is why we still celebrate the 4^th of July some 231 years later! Without independence in 1776, how could America have become the world power it is today? Without independence, how could we have the freedoms we have today? Without independence, the world would not have seen a nation conceived in liberty and a government based upon Biblical principles. Without independence, the world would not have seen how God will bless a nation based upon His Word. By the way, I know that it is popular to celebrate the 4^th with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, bells, bonfires, and illuminations. But when is the last time we celebrated with solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty? I, for one, will celebrate that way this year!

Adams jubilant words in the first paragraph above are tempered by the second paragraph. Adams reminds his wife that he truly has pledged his life, his fortune, and his sacred honor to this cause. He was well aware of the sacrifice needed to accomplish the task at hand. He was now a marked man, uncertain of what his personal cost would be. However, he was willing to sacrifice all for the cause of independence. He was able to see the long term goal of a free and independent nation, and not get distracted or frightened away with short term circumstances, even when all odds were against him.

So, why is the Declaration of Independence important today? One reason is that it represents the deliverance of America from outside rule. It is the basis and foundation for everything that has come since. There would not have been a Constitution or Bill of Rights had it not been for the Declaration of Independence.

Next time, I'll give another reason why the Declaration is still important today. In the meantime, if you want more information on the Declaration of Independence and the founding of America, see my website at www.1776web.com.