The Two-Dollar Bill and the Declaration of Independence

The Two-Dollar Bill and the Declaration of Independence

Independence Day provides a time to watch fireworks explode and see the rocket’s red glare. As you ponder the significance of 4th of July, take time to be thankful we live in America, the home of the brave, and the land of the free.

Not long ago, I stepped up to a bank teller’s window and boldly asked, “Do you have any two-dollar bills?” I wasn’t optimistic.

The teller smiled, and said, “Yes, I do. We just got some.” She excused herself, and in less than a minute she returned.

As she looked through the bills to be sure the ones I was getting were crisp, I was getting excited. Then I recalled what a friend had told me a few days earlier. “They never have any when I ask. I think the tellers and the other bank employees must be keeping them for themselves.”

The ones I got were issued in 1976, America’s Bicentennial. The two dollar-bill beautifully commemorates the signing on July 4, 1776. The picture on the back is entitled Declaration of Independence. It was painted by John Trumbull and hangs in the United States Capitol.

I urge you to look closely at a two-dollar bill. Ponder the fact that by signing the Declaration, the founding fathers were risking their lives and property. And also recall that the freedom of religion was guaranteed by the Bill of Rights when it was ratified in 1791. Keep the faith.

Give away a two-dollar bill to a young person, and keep the flame of freedom alive for generations to come.

The two-dollar bill is the inspiration for one of my forthcoming children’s picture books. Sign up for my newsletter to get information about when it will be released.

Tell me what you think below, and Join me every day as we pray for wisdom by taking part in the Wisdom Prayer Challenge.