Tombstone Tributes
- Dan Bolin
- 5 days ago
- 1 min read
Nº 361
JuLY 1, 2025
If you have not chosen the Kingdom of God first, it will in the end make no difference what you have chosen instead. - William Law
The United States celebrates July 4th to commemorate the day in 1776 when the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence. Thomas Jefferson was its primary author.
Jefferson went on to be a powerful force in the newly formed United States, serving as the third president. Upon his death, exactly 50 years later, Jefferson left instruction that his tombstone commemorate what he considered his three greatest achievements.
On it are etched:
Author of the Declaration of American Independence
Author of the Statue of Virginia for Religious Freedom
Father of the University of Virginia
Stunningly, he made no mention of being president of the United States. The values that framed his life were not control, power, or prestige; rather, liberty, freedom of worship, and education.
The Apostle Paul also reflected on his life and noted three significant accomplishments, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)
Paul did not mention the letters he wrote, churches he founded, or mission trips he led. He simply reminded Timothy of the significance of wrestling over issues that matter, finishing strong, and clinging to the truth. These are great reminders and encouragement this Independence Day.
Excelsior,
Dan Bolin
