Although the day doesn’t hold the same meaning for those who choose not to share the Christian faith and annually celebrate the day of Jesus’ birth as it does for those who do, most still refer to the day itself as Christmas. And even though the secularization of our nation has led many to say phrases such as “season’s greetings” instead of Merry Christmas, and refer to social gatherings as “holiday parties” versus Christmas parties, the holiday itself has never been publicly marketed as the 25th of December. If it were, Christians would most certainly be up in arms over the commercialization of their holiday even more so than they are today.

As Americans, Independence Day is our holiest of days. It is the day on which we celebrate the founding fathers’ intent to separate the 13 original colonies from British rule. It is the day the United States of America was born.

When we think of Independence Day, we think of the Declaration of Independence, the Revolutionary War, George Washington and Valley Forge. We think of sacrifice and commitment. We think of all that makes this nation great.

For many, Independence Day has come to be known as the Fourth of July. The Fourth of July conjures up images as well, such as parades and fireworks, backyard cookouts and a day off from work. Wonderful distractions, all of these, from the normal day-to-day activities of our lives. But a distraction, nonetheless, from the real meaning of the day.

As Americans, let us remember this July fourth what the day is truly about: the day on which we celebrate our independence, our freedom, and the birth of the greatest nation on earth.