This past week we celebrated Independence Day. This day is a special time, set aside to celebrate many gifts and opportunities that "Freedom" brings to the American citizen. It celebrates our independence from England and our dependence on God. I remember watching President Carter receive the distinguished Medal of Freedom in Philadelphia. It was an inspiring moment for me to see Jimmy Carter get the respect he deserves since his defeat in 1980.

The Fourth of July always sets me to thinking about the relationship of church and state, and God's will and providential care for both of these institutions that I am a loyal member of ” one by birth and one by a "new birth". I know Jimmy Carter also struggled with his commitment to the Christian faith, and his responsibilities as President of th…