North of 49 | God Keep Our Land Glorious and Free

As July rolls around, both Canada and the U.S. turn their attention to patriotism and freedom. In Canada, July 1st is the day we celebrate Canada Day. In 1867, Canada became a nation through Confederation. In 1879, July 1st became a statutory holiday known as Dominion Day, and in 1983, Canadians celebrated their first Canada Day under the new name.

Like our neighbours to the south who celebrate Independence Day, we share many similarities. It’s a day to show pride in our country with barbecues, parades, special events, festivals, fireworks, and national, regional, and local celebrations.

One major difference I’ve noticed is that most of our fireworks displays are organized by local towns and municipalities rather than individual displays, which seem more prevalent in the U.S. And in our northern communities, we hold fireworks late at night because of our northern latitude. In July it doesn’t get dark enough until close to 11 p.m. to enjoy the lights.

Every Canada Day, I’m reminded of a song that Canada’s own Torchmen Quartet has sung for many years called I Love You Canada. The song speaks about the beauty of our country, “from countless sights like Northern Lights” to future generations growing up “so proud and strong and free.”

But it also acknowledges that life isn’t always easy:

“And even when times are bad and it’s hard to make it through,
This country together will stand on guard
and I always will love you.”

Those words seem especially meaningful today.

Canadians tend to have a more reserved, quiet patriotism. Although we show up on Canada Day to celebrate, and recent polls indicate that nearly 8 in 10 Canadians are proud to be Canadian, it doesn’t always show up in our day-to-day lives.

It’s always a blessing to be able to celebrate our country, our freedom of religion, our freedom of speech, and so many other things that are easy to take for granted. In today’s politically charged landscape, we know that these freedoms should never be taken for granted. It’s easy to become caught up in what’s happening around us and forget that Paul reminds us to pray for all those in authority.

“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people, for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV)

But the freedom that can’t be taken away from us is the freedom that we have in Christ. Because of His sacrifice for us, freedom is ours, and our future is secure. We are reminded that this world is not our home, but our true home is in Heaven, and that’s where our focus should be.

God Keep Our Land, Glorious and Free. Bless our American brothers and sisters, and may we all remember the One from whom all true freedom comes.