President’s Holiday

The U.S. celebrates the birthdays of two famous American presidents in February. Both of these presidents - George Washington and Abraham Lincoln - are connected to major wars.

George Washington led the army of the American colonies who were fighting the British over independence. Three years after the end of the war, with a new Constitution in place, George was elected to the presidency in 1789. He was known as an honest man that could be trusted.

Abraham Lincoln was president of the United States from 1861-1865 - the 16th president. He also was an honest man and had a nickname - Honest Abe. To Lincoln, the issue at the heart of the Civil War was

“that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

Both Lincoln and Washington led people who risked their lives for a cause. What are key events in the history of your country when people where inspired to risk their lives for a cause? Would you do the same if you were in their shoes?

Is there a cause you would be willing to die for - for your country? for your family? for a friend? for God? for someone or something somewhere in the world? Why or why not?

Are you personally acquainted with someone who risked their life or died for a cause? Explain.

Are you interested in politics? If so, what issues are important to you? Are there any government policies that you would like changed? Give examples. Is it possible for you to change government policy? If so, how?

Have you ever wanted to be the top leader in your country? Why or why not? Do you enjoy leadership roles in the family, school, work, volunteer work or hobby groups? What kinds of roles do you prefer? Give examples.

A man named Stephen told some people about how God came to earth in Jesus. He also told them that they were stubborn like their ancestors who had killed many Jewish prophets. What did the people do in response?

“They dragged him out of the city to stone him. . . . And as the murderous stones came flying at him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” And he fell to his knees, shouting, “Lord, don’t charge them with this sin!” and with that, he died.” Acts 7:58-60

**** What would you do if someone wanted to hurt or kill you because of your religious beliefs?