Did you know today is Independence Day #2? No joke! The first Independence Day we celebrate on July 4th (1776). Like usual we had a picnic at our daughter’s home, saw fireworks, finished off the snacks and headed home like millions of Americans. I don’t remember us talking about the historical meaning of that day. You probably didn’t think about it either. For most of us it was a good picnic and lots of fireworks.
But today in Ukraine it is Independence Day August 24th. It is the day that many Ukrainians are literally fighting for; we are too. Ukraine gained their independence in 1991 after the collapse of the USSR. Today it is a time of real war to keep their independence. We are glad we are here and can be an encouragement.
Every day for a year or more air raid sirens warn of possible incoming drones, bombs or missiles from Russia. Nancy and I have been in Ukraine before but not like this. Yet we have enjoyed fellowship with our children and many friends here. We have had opportunity to be with injured soldiers in a hospital. We’ve also been with soldiers on the front lines. We sought to encourage and pray for them. We’ve heard guns firing not far away and talked with pastors about what is happening after their churches and flocks were attacked. They are thankful we came. Since today is Ukrainian Independence Day, we know it might mean more attacks from Russia. Last night was amazingly quiet…but the day is not over yet.
When we think of our American Independence Day we might think of the statue of Liberty. I’ve been up to her head to look out the windows. Recently my son Ezra, an artist, completed a stunning painting of that statue in New York harbor. My grandparents first saw this statue when they came from Ukraine to America in 1902. I am sure it was an emotional moment for them. Their names as immigrants are inscribed in the stone near the statue. See more of Ezra’s incredible art at www.ezrasuko.com.
When I think of Independence Day in Ukraine, I think of the Motherland Statue in Kyiv. It is like our Statue of Liberty. It was created in 1981 and overlooks the Dnieper River here. Originally it was focused on Communism. The woman held a shield with a hammer and sickle on it. But today the Soviet heraldry is replaced with Ukraine’s new coat of arms pictured in the Trident with a three-pronged spear pointing downward. I have heard the symbol is a thousand years old and may picture a bird flying down into a field to catch a mouse. Today that newly placed symbol was officially revealed in Kyiv. In the other hand she still holds a sword pointed upward. That sword reminds me of our all powerful Lord who points toward heaven. I am sure the Soviets didn’t mean to imply.that. But it does!
Pray for Ukraine.
For pictures online look for Motherland Statue.
Pastor Mark