On this Sunday, July 3, we are all undoubtedly thinking about the foundation that our country was built upon, the freedoms and independence we enjoy, and the hope of prosperity and flourishing. We want to celebrate these things in our hearts, until we begin to consider how far we’ve drifted from this foundation, as our country truly struggles to find her soul. This brings disappointment to our spirits. Our scripture for today provides a word of comfort in the midst of this disappointment, which gives us a reason to rejoice. It reminds us of the loving, nurturing, care of God that can bring us the peace that we are longing for. It also casts a vision of a different kind of kingdom, that we are invited to participate in that offers restoration, hope, and new life.