July Fourth marked the 232nd anniversary of the birth of the United States of America. It was on this date in 1826, that two of our former presidents died, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. History will also note the passing of another great patriot, former U.S. Sen. Jesse Helms.

Jesse Helms served five terms (1973-2003) in the United States Senate. During his first term, he authored a book titled, "When Free Men Shall Stand," in which he wrote the following:

"God has given us ample means and abundant grace in our work of restoring the rule of His law to our demoralized country. Our first priority ... must be to renew the honor and dignity and prestige of the family. The family has prior right to that of any government. Almighty God is the author of the family ... There can be no just social order which is not based on the Christian concept of the family and the rights pertaining to It."

I find these words to be especially poignant in light of the current assault upon the institution of the family, with the attempt of the courts to redefine the definitions of "marriage" and "family."

With wisdom and foresight, Jesse Helms boldly articulated the issues of the cultural war in which we are engaged. In the closing lines of his book, he extended this clarion call to his fellow countrymen:

"I call upon all those who feel within themselves the shackles of despair and unbelief to rise and be about our Father's business as our Lord Jesus Christ gives us the grace to do His work. Like Israel, we must turn to the Author of Liberty to enjoy again what once we had so abundantly."

A man who refused to compromise his faith and his values, Sen. Helms was often misunderstood and criticized during his tenure in Congress. Nevertheless, he persevered. I believe the following quote by Amy Carmichael describes how Jesse Helms lived his life:

"Our Master has never promised us success. He demands obedience. He expects faithfulness. Results are His concern, not ours. And our reputation is of no consequence at all."

As Americans, we are indebted to Jesse Helms.

Linda Anderson

Tarboro