And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in. Isaiah 58:12

This past Friday, we witnessed a powerful demonstration of a family who stepped out by faith to raise up the spiritual foundations of the United States. The Matich family has worked hard over the past several weeks preparing food, putting together meaningful speeches, and organizing events for a full day of patriotic fun.

Deocrated and ready - anyone notice a problem with something in this picture? Find out below in the post.Our van rounded up the quaint little driveway to the Matich’s stately home all decorated in red, white & blue banners. In full uniform and waving a colonial era sword, Master Samuel Matich waved our vehicle in. A spacious tent had been erected with tables, chairs, and a full stage complete with sound equipment overlooking the beautiful Shenandoah mountain range towering over the Shenandoah river.

Our band of true American patriots stood resolute and readyBut something was amiss. For upon the high pole, clearly visible to all, an English flag waved fearlessly in the wind. With wonder, all gathered together. A formidable force of true American patriots rallied to the West of the tent not more than 40 paces The color guard - front and centerfrom her royal majesty’s flag. In 3 straight columns, lead by 3 fine American flags, more than 20 prepared to march with the zeal befitting a band of loyal patriots. The music began to rumble across the valley and Master Samuel gave the call to which all responded with a forward march. The ceremony had begun. With stomachs full Mr. Matich opens the ceremony with words that kindle the Patriotic spiritof delicious food so diligently prepared by the Matich ladies and spirits lifted with the music of patriotism, all sat back in eager anticipation for a season of remembering.

Under the command of Mr. Matich, the English colors were Treasure removes the English flag to replace it with the beautiful American colorsrapidly withdrawn and replaced by the majestic red, white & blue. This was followed by a powerful reading of the Declaration of Independece written by a committee of five (Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Roger Sherman, and anyone know the final one?). The audience joined together in song remembering why our freedom was won and upon who our nation was founded. A Father & son team present a powerful bio on John AdamsThere were dramatic speeches on the real meaning behind ‘separation of church and state’, Betsy Ross, John Adams, the reasons for American independence, and more. The ceremony ended with everyone joining into sing a rousing version of The Star Spangled What an inspiration it was to watch Samuel disciple our midst with words of Christian patriotismBanner accompanied by a father and son trumpet/violin duet.

The Matich family were an encouragement to us. How inspiring it was to see the result of a family diligently working together in one accord. They discipled all who were present as they took the initiative to build up the foundation of our Christian nation, the United States of America.