Peruvian Independence Day 2010

July 28th is the day that Peru celebrates its independence from the colonial rule of Spain. Around the day there are a large number of parades. All schools march in a civic parade in their district. It is quite a day with a party air. The sun is shining and one can enjoy food and ice-creams befitting a holiday. As well as the school parades most institutions take part in a parade somewhere. The Police and Armed forces have big parades as well. In Lima there is a very big military parade where all the armaments of the nation are shown off. It is good that there is such civic and national pride. Sadly, however, like the world over the good can be marred by the bad as there are many parties where drinking to excess is the norm. The dead hand of the Roman Catholic Church also hangs over many activities at this time.

It would be good for us all to reflect what the Bible teaches about our responsibilities to those in authority over us. At the same time those authorities need to remember that God holds them responsible and will ask them to give account of how they have discharged their responsibilities He has given them. the Bible speaks of the need for justice and honesty as well as taking care of the poor, the widow, the orphan as well as others in need.