Editor, Gazette-Journal:

In a Catholic catechism lesson, young children were/are asked “Why did God make us?” The answer is “God made us to know Him, love Him, and serve Him.” That’s the meaning and purpose of life. With the Fourth of July coming up, we can ask: “Why did God make the United States?”

God has given our country many blessings and has made us the most powerful nation on Earth. He didn’t raise up this country for our glory and purpose, but for His. I believe He intends, with our consent, to use our wealth, resources, military, etc., to bring freedom to oppressed people throughout the world.

One freedom could be freedom of religion, which would help to fulfill the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19, 20: “Go therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit …”

In the past, the United States has been the example for the rest of the world. But regrettably, we are now failing God’s purpose for us. ...