July 17: 14 Tammuz

On this day in 1776, a Jewish plantation owner from South Carolina named Francis Salvador, was killed in a skirmish with British regulars. The reason this is noteworthy is because it’s believed that Salvador was the first Jewish patriot killed in the American Revolution. There would be many more, Jew and non-Jew, who would give their lives for the cause. But its important to recognize that, from the beginning of the struggle, there were many Jews dedicated to the cause of liberty; some gave their lives and some gave of their worldly possessions. Hyam Solomon was one such patriot. Solomon was a significant financial contributor to the America Revolution as well as serving in other means.

One of the reasons for pointing this out is to emphasize the unique link that has always existed between Israel and the United States. There are so many parallels between the two nations that it defies happenstance; it is obviously by design. Consider that, in Hebrew, the United States is called Artzot haBrit, or “lands of the covenant.” But the more pressing reason for pointing out the role of Jews in the struggle for American independence is to call attention to those who were so dedicated to a cause that they were willing to surrender everything, including life and treasure.

So, that begs this question: what is our cause? What are we so committed to that we would be willing to surrender life and all of our worldly possessions in order to attain the goal? As believers, this is an important issue for us to consider and especially if you believe we are living in the last days. It’s important to consider because the reality is, if we are not completely committed to the Messiah, we aren’t going to make it. According to Revelation 12, there will be a group of people who are totally committed to the Kingdom, and it will cost them everything.

“They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.” (Revelation 12:11)

At the end of days there will be a group of people who overcome every all because they overcome the Adversary. To overcome the adversary means one must be willing to surrender all – property, life, etc. If we’re honest with ourselves, most would have to wonder if we’re truly there, yet. But I’m sure that all of us want to be among those who overcome all that the world has to throw at us. So let us start our day by asking the Father to help us to dedicate ourselves to Him and be willing, like so many who have come before us, to surrender all. Whether it’s country, family, fame or fortune, may we abandon all that is required in order to follow the Messiah all the way so that His will might be performed in our lives.

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