A Great Hisorical/Education Tool From Vision Forum

I’ve long had the desire to take our children to the East Coast and visit some of the historic sites connected to our nation’s founding and battle for independence. Unfortunately, we haven’t been able to do that yet. And with the economy the way it is, taking a trek across the country for an historic holiday isn’t in the near future.

But let me suggest a much less expensive alternative. Each year the folks at Vision Forum host what they call a Faith and Freedom Tour. According to the Vision Forum Ministry site, these “one-of-a-kind trips will give you a panoramic perspective on God’s providence in establishing the foundations of our liberty and will grant you a greater appreciation for the faith and sacrifice of our forebears who helped to forge the freedoms we enjoy today. You have read their stories — now breathe them, smell them, taste them, and watch them come alive again.”

But wait a minute, you say. I thought you were offering a cheaper alternative to travel. Well, here it is.

The folks at Vision Forum recorded the tour in 2005 and are now making it available in a set of 13 CDs called “Let Freedom Ring: The Philadelphia Faith and Freedom Tour." While certainly no where near as exciting as being there, this is still an entertaining and educational adventure.

Recorded on site during the actual tour, these 13 CDs contain a wealth of information about the early days of our nation’s struggle for independence. It features tour messages given by Vision Forum founder Doug Phillips and historian William Potter. Both speakers pepper their addresses with numerous quotes from the principles involved in the story, and bring to light many little known and interesting facts about the events discussed.

Here you’ll learn about the early days of our nation’s official birth. You’ll visit Independence Hall and listen in on the discussions there. You’ll visit battlefields as well as educational institutions. Go with George Washington to Valley Forge and across the Delaware. And throughout, the faith and devotion of our nation’s early leaders is emphasized. The focus is always on God’s providential hand in our nation’s history

It’s not perfect. The lectures can run a little long sometimes, especially when you’re not able to see the things being talked about. And being on site, there are times when the audio isn’t perfect (being recorded outside at times, etc.) But overall, I think your family will enjoy the trip. And quite honestly, the price is pretty reasonable for 13 CDs.

I still hope to one day take that trip out East. Who knows, maybe we can actually take the Faith and Freedom Tour. But until then, we appreciate the chance to be reminded of the centrality of faith in the lives of our forefathers and the journey they took.