With hand over heart I love America and I'm grateful for the freedoms to end her gravest sins.

I'm also thankful for the military servicemen and women and law enforcement officers who protect 40 Days for Life volunteers around the world as we defend those who have no voice.

As America celebrates the 4th of July this weekend, we reflect on the countless Christian patriots whose love of God and country led them to sacrifice their lives and stand up against injustice.

Even as we commemorate our independence from Great Britain, the great British writer GK Chesterton reminds us that we don't love our country because it's great...

...rather because we love our country, we strive to make it great.

And America is at its best when Christians use their freedom of speech, religion and assembly in the public square to affirm the dignity of every human being--without exception.

This duty to peacefully and prayerfully stand against injustice now rests on our shoulders.

Abortion is the greatest human rights crisis in history, ending more American lives than any other cause of death--but your public prayer and witness can help end it.

It's not too early to find your local 40 Days for Life location for the upcoming September 23 - November 1 campaign. Local leaders are already assembling their teams and making plans for the fall vigil.

Find your local campaign and reach out to help your local leader by visiting:

40daysforlife.com/location

John Paul II said, "A nation that kills its own children is a nation without hope."

When you go out to pray at your local 40 Days for Life vigil, you're not just standing for life. You're also standing for the future of your country.

This Independence Day, we give thanks that we live in a nation that protects our God-given right to stand up for both our faith and for the future of our country.

Have a blessed and safe 4th of July!

Shawn Carney, President/CEO

In addition to co-founding 40 Days for Life, Shawn is one of the most sought-after pro-life speakers, addressing audiences coast-to-coast and internationally. He has executive produced award-winning pro-life documentaries. Shawn co-authored the #1 top-rated Christian book: 40 Days for Life: Discover What God Has Done ... Imagine What He Can Do and also wrote The Beginning of the End of Abortion.