The Day Independence Came

Summary

Focus on the Family with Jim Daly

Episode: The Day Independence Came
Date: July 3, 2026
Summary by Podcast Summarizer

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Episode Overview

This special Focus on the Family episode celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence by showcasing an Adventures in Odyssey audio drama titled "The Day Independence Came." Hosted by Jim Daly and John Fuller, the episode uses creative storytelling to help families reflect on the faith, courage, and sacrifice of America’s Founding Fathers, emphasizing the spiritual foundation of the nation's birth and encouraging a renewed sense of gratitude and purpose in listeners.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Setting the Stage: The Importance of Independence and Faith

• Opening Reflections on Freedom
  • John Fuller and Jim Daly discuss the origins of American independence and the deep faith that motivated the Founding Fathers.
  • Daly emphasizes the importance of remembering the sacrifices made for liberty:

    “Back in 1776, the founding fathers of this nation were literally putting their lives on the line… To the British, the Declaration of Independence was an act of treason and the original signers kept their names secret because otherwise they would have been killed.” (01:17)

• The Importance of Teaching History to Families
  • Adventures in Odyssey is highlighted as a creative medium to impart historical and faith-based lessons to children and adults.
  • Excitement is shared about a new animated Adventures in Odyssey film coming in early 2027.

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2. Dramatic Audio Journey: Irwin's Adventure to 1776

[Key Drama Begins: 03:18]

• Introduction at Wits End

  • Irwin Springer, a history-loving boy at Wits End, is offered a book on Benjamin Franklin. As he reaches for it, he falls and is transported into an immersive journey back to the Revolutionary War era.

• Meeting Revolutionary Figures

  • Irwin meets Nathan Hale (07:22), assists him in an escape from British troops, and soon finds himself in the camp of the Continental Army.
  • Notable dialogue establishes Hale’s famous courage and faith:

    "I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country." – Nathan Hale (12:54)

[Meeting General Washington: 09:45; Prayer Segment: 10:40]

• Encounter with George Washington

  • Irwin is awestruck by Washington’s personal Christianity:

    “I never realized how much Jesus really meant to you.” – Irwin Springer (11:20) “I’m a Christian, a patriot, and a Christian too. There’s no better combination.” – George Washington (10:40)

  • Washington entrusts Irwin with a message to the Continental Congress—to remember God in their deliberations.

• Mission to the Continental Congress

  • Irwin undertakes a journey to Philadelphia, advised by General Washington to carry the message that America’s independence should be rooted in God’s providence and guidance.

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3. Continental Congress Debates Independence

[Congress Scene Begins: 14:17]

• Key Historical Figures and Debates
  • Irwin delivers Washington’s message to John Hancock, with Benjamin Franklin (portrayed with a voice reminiscent of Mr. Whitaker) welcoming him.
  • The Congress is divided:
    • John Dickinson voices skepticism about secession and the viability of the union:

      “Better live Englishmen than dead patriots.” (16:24)

    • Adams and Franklin assert the necessity and righteousness of the cause:

      “The cause of freedom merits any price, Mr. Dickinson.” – Franklin (17:00)
      “We must all hang together, or most assuredly we will all hang separately.” – Franklin (17:18)

    • Washington’s message emphasizes faith:

      “I firmly believe that God is on our side as long as we are on his. And so my only request is that you seek the counsel of almighty God and humbly implore his providence...” (17:48)

    • Franklin’s affirmation of God’s providence:

      “I have lived, sir, a long time. And the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth. That God governs in the affairs of men.” – Franklin (18:19)

[Declaration Vote: 20:24; Declaration Passed: 22:05]

• Historical Vote and Declaration
  • After heated debate, Dickinson abstains, but the remaining colonies vote in favor—leading to passage of the Declaration of Independence.
  • The ringing statement:

    “Resolved: that these United States are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states…” (20:54)

  • Irwin, Franklin, and others recite the concluding pledge:

    “We mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor.” (21:38)

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4. Irwin’s Return and Reflection

[Dream Ends: 22:50]

• Awakening
  • Irwin wakes up back at Wits End, realizing it was a vivid, inspirational dream.
  • He eagerly shares his experience with Mr. Whitaker, who playfully shrugs off the resemblance to Benjamin Franklin.
  • Irwin reflects on the powerful lessons of faith, courage, and providence he encountered.

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5. Host Reflection and Application

[Jim Daly & John Fuller Wrap-Up: 24:18]

• Christian Foundations of America
  • Daly underscores the real spiritual depth of many Founding Fathers, noting both their historical impact and personal imperfections.
  • He affirms the ongoing mission of Focus on the Family and Adventures in Odyssey:

    “Our goal with this drama series is to introduce children and families to godly truth and the good news of Jesus Christ. That’s at the core of what we do.” (24:28)

• Resources & Testimony
  • Listeners are encouraged to explore the Adventures in Odyssey resources and upcoming projects.
  • A listener testimony is shared:

    “Thank you...which led me to accept Christ when I was 8 or 9 years old. I’m 16 now...They always provide a message to keep my head above water.” – Jeremiah (25:56)

• Invitation to Support
  • Daly highlights the impact of the ministry (22 children make salvation decisions for Christ every day) and invites listeners to support and get involved.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “Where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” – John Fuller (00:35)
• “To the British, the Declaration of Independence was an act of treason…” – Jim Daly (01:17)
• “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.” – Nathan Hale (12:54)
• “I’m a Christian, a patriot, and a Christian too. There's no better combination.” – George Washington (10:40)
• “God governs in the affairs of men.” – Franklin (18:19)
• “Resolved: that these United States are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states…” – Congress (20:54)
• “We mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor.” – Franklin & Congress (21:38)
• “Our goal...is to introduce children and families to godly truth and the good news of Jesus Christ.” – Jim Daly (24:28)

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Important Timestamps

• 00:35: Spiritual foundations & American independence introduction
• 03:18: Adventures in Odyssey audio drama begins
• 09:45: Irwin meets General Washington
• 10:40: Washington leads prayer and discusses faith
• 14:17: Arrival at the Continental Congress
• 17:18: Franklin’s iconic “hang together or hang separately” quote
• 20:54: Official vote and passage of the Declaration of Independence
• 22:50: Irwin’s dream ends; returns to the present
• 24:18: Hosts reflect and recap lessons; testimony shared

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Episode Tone & Style

The episode maintains a warm, family-friendly, and inspirational tone. The audio drama portion is imaginative and educational, mixing historical facts with creative storytelling. The hosts provide thoughtful spiritual reflections, reinforced by testimonies and invitations to engage more deeply with Focus on the Family’s resources.

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This summary captures the heart of “The Day Independence Came”—a call to remember and celebrate both American liberty and the godly heritage underpinning it, inspiring families to cherish faith and freedom together.

Transcript

[Focus on the Family Announcer]

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[John Fuller]

In his second letter to the Corinthians, the Apostle Paul wrote, where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. Well, freedom and liberty were pressing needs felt by the leaders of the 13American colonies 250 years ago. They had a deep faith in God and decided to take a stand against the mightiest empire in the world when they signed the Declaration of Independence. We'll hear more today on FOCUS ON THE FAMILY with Jim Daly. I'm John Fuller. And Jim, many people are obviously planning time together as family and friends as we celebrate the 250th. I wonder, though, how many Americans really understand the significant events that led up to this very special holiday?

[Jim Daly]

Well, I'm hopeful that many of us do, but we're so blessed to be living at this time in history where we can celebrate and enjoy the freedoms that we have. And I really do hope every one of us will take time this weekend to have fun with your family and express your love for each other. Those are important things to do. But it's also important to reflect on the great price that was paid for our freedom, because back in 1776, the founding fathers of this nation were literally putting their lives on the line. To the British, the Declaration of Independence was an act of treason and the original signers kept their name secret because otherwise they would have been killed. Those were the stakes at the time. And today we want to help you. You get a sense of the courage and sacrifice and profound faith that many of our founding fathers had. That's why we have a dramatic episode from our Adventures in Odyssey team that we'd love to share with you today. And I think you're really going to enjoy it.

[John Fuller]

You know, Adventures in Odyssey, of course, the audio drama series that we've been producing since 1987. It provides wonderful creative stories that feature faith and life lessons for children and for many adults as well. And we have more than 1000 adventures in Odyssey episodes. And we have a big new thing coming up in early 2027, a brand new animated film called Adventures in Odyssey the movie. It's our hope that millions of new families will be introduced to the world of Odyssey and Ultimately to the good news message of Jesus Christ.

[Jim Daly]

That's our goal. And we're counting on the prayers and financial support of friends like you to help us achieve this. But we'll tell you more about that later in the program. What we need to do right now is set the stage for today's drama titled the Day Independence Came. And it all starts in an old fashioned ice cream shop called Wits inn, run by Mr. Whitaker, or Whit, as we call him. Whit and his friend Tom are discussing trivia with a young history buff named Irwin Springer.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Okay, here's one for you. Who commanded the British forces during the revolution?

[Irwin Springer]

That's easy. General Charles Cornwallis.

[Nathan Hale]

Oh boy.

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

How do you know all that stuff, Irwin?

[Irwin Springer]

Oh, I love the Revolutionary War. There were so many great heroes like Washington and Adams and Nathan Hale. It's my favorite period in history.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Oh, speaking of Franklin, that reminds me, I have a book about him for you, Irwin. It's a big thick one too. I found it in a sale downtown.

[Irwin Springer]

Really? Where is it?

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

It's on one of the shelves in the Bible room. I didn't want any of the kids to handle it before you got to it.

[Irwin Springer]

Great.

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

Look at him go.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

You'd think he was looking for buried treasure or something. Well, what makes you think he isn't?

[Irwin Springer]

Great. There's nobody here. I'll be able to read it right now. Let's see. There it is on the top shelf. Now where's the step ladder?

[Nathan Hale]

Hmm.

[Irwin Springer]

Well, here's a chair. Mr. Whitaker doesn't like us to climb on chairs. I'll just do it real quick and nobody will ever know. There we go. Still pretty high. I think I can stretch up and get it though. Got it.

[Additional Voices]

Whoa. Oh.

[Irwin Springer]

Oh, my head. Ouch. Oh my head. The book must have hit it when I fell down. Hey, where is my book? Come to think of it, where's Wit's End? This looks like the old dirt road up to Trickle Lake. Except it isn't.

[Nathan Hale]

Boy. You boy.

[Irwin Springer]

Who me?

[Nathan Hale]

Yes. Follow me if you value your hide.

[Irwin Springer]

Uh, excuse me, but I was taught never to go with strangers. Uh oh, right behind you.

[Additional Voices]

Get out. Hold up. Rebel Dolan.

[Irwin Springer]

Did he say Rebe?

[Nathan Hale]

Yes. We have to get out of this clearing or there. Get behind those bushes.

[Irwin Springer]

Where are they?

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

I don't know. They run like rabbits now. They've gotta be about here somewhere.

[Irwin Springer]

Let's take a breather for a moment, shall we, Alfie?

[Additional Voices]

Right.

[Irwin Springer]

They look like red coats.

[Nathan Hale]

Yes, they are. Redcoats. And deadly ones too. We have to think of Some way out of this we could fight. But unfortunately, I have no more shot left. Still, there must be some way.

[Irwin Springer]

Hey, look up there above the soldiers.

[Nathan Hale]

What?

[Irwin Springer]

You see it? That big white looking thing?

[Nathan Hale]

Yes.

[Irwin Springer]

So it's a wasp's nest.

[Nathan Hale]

So it is. How's your aim?

[Irwin Springer]

Not too good.

[Nathan Hale]

All right. Looks like it's up to me then. Hand me that rock over there.

[Irwin Springer]

Okay.

[Nathan Hale]

Now, we'll only have one shot, so it has to count. Are you ready?

[Irwin Springer]

Yep. Ready.

[Nathan Hale]

Hey, lobsterbacks. How about some company?

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Look out.

[Irwin Springer]

Look at him go.

[Nathan Hale]

Oh, we fixed them for fair, eh?

[Additional Voices]

Oh. Oh. Oh.

[Nathan Hale]

The wasps are journeying. We best beat a hasty retreat, or we'll end up with food for the wasps ourselves.

[Irwin Springer]

You said it. Let's get out of here.

[Additional Voices]

Oh. Ouch.

[George Washington]

Ah.

[Irwin Springer]

They're still coming.

[Nathan Hale]

There's a lake ahead. Can you swim?

[Additional Voices]

No.

[Nathan Hale]

Ah, well, there's no time like the present to learn.

[Additional Voices]

Whoa.

[Nathan Hale]

Well, now, don't struggle. Don't struggle. I've got you there. I have you now. That's it. Just move your arms and legs.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Yeah, that's good.

[Nathan Hale]

Oh, this way.

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

That's it.

[Nathan Hale]

Now, up under the shore. Well, we've had quite an adventure. And I don't even know your name or where you're from.

[Irwin Springer]

I'm Erwin Springer from Odyssey.

[Nathan Hale]

Well, Erwin Springer from Odyssey, I thank you for saving my life.

[Irwin Springer]

Likewise, I'm sure. And you are?

[Nathan Hale]

My name is Hale. Nathan Hale.

[Irwin Springer]

Nathan Hale? The Nathan Hale, huh?

[Nathan Hale]

You've heard of me?

[Irwin Springer]

Who hasn't heard of you?

[Nathan Hale]

Well, I don't know. Everyone, I would imagine.

[Irwin Springer]

Wait a minute. If you're Nathan Hale, then this must be. What year is this?

[Nathan Hale]

1776. July, to be precise. We're just outside of the township of New York.

[Irwin Springer]

New York?

[Additional Voices]

Oh, wow. Oh, wow.

[Nathan Hale]

Mr. Springer, are you all right?

[Irwin Springer]

Yeah, yeah, I. I just can't. You're really Nathan Hale?

[Nathan Hale]

Yes. I think I better get you back to camp. You seem a bit delirious. Can you walk?

[Additional Voices]

Oh, yeah.

[Irwin Springer]

Yeah, sure.

[Nathan Hale]

Are you sure? It's a good stretch of the legs.

[Irwin Springer]

No, I'm okay, really. Let's go.

[Nathan Hale]

Good fellow. All right, this way, then.

[Irwin Springer]

Wait a minute. What camp?

[Nathan Hale]

The camp of the Continental army, of course.

[Additional Voices]

Oh, wow. Oh, wow. Halt. Who goes there?

[Nathan Hale]

Nathan Hale and Master Irwin Springer from the township of Odyssey. Nathan, thank God you're all right. You're long overdue. If it hadn't been for this young man, I might not have made it at all. Well, you're to report to headquarters right away. Yes, I do have information that won't wait, Master Springer. Follow me.

[Additional Voices]

Oh, wow. Oh, wow.

[Irwin Springer]

I can't believe this. I'm in the middle of the colonial army.

[Nathan Hale]

Well, we don't have much, but we call it home.

[Irwin Springer]

This is everything I've ever dreamed about come to life.

[Nathan Hale]

I'm glad it meets with your approval. Ah, here we are. The headquarters tent. Wait here. There's someone I want you to meet.

[Irwin Springer]

This is incredible. Incredible. The kids at Wit's end are never gonna believe this. I'm not even sure I believe it. Maybe I should pinch myself to see if I'm awake. No. If I am dreaming, I don't want to wake up. This is great.

[Nathan Hale]

Master Springer, come in.

[Irwin Springer]

What next?

[George Washington]

So this is the young man who saved my captain's life.

[Nathan Hale]

Yes, sir. This is Master Irwin Springer of Odyssey.

[George Washington]

I'm pleased to make your acquaintance, Master Springer. I'm George Washington.

[Additional Voices]

Oh, wow. Oh, wow.

[Nathan Hale]

Oh, wow.

[George Washington]

Is that some sort of Indian greeting?

[Nathan Hale]

I don't know, sir. He does seem to say it often, though.

[George Washington]

Well, in the interest of maintaining good relations with the people of Odyssey, I say, oh, wow to you, Master Springer.

[Irwin Springer]

Thank you, sir.

[George Washington]

In saving Captain Hale, you have done me a great service. I am in your debt.

[Irwin Springer]

You? In my debt?

[Additional Voices]

Oh.

[Irwin Springer]

Oh, no, sir. I just pointed out where the wasps were. It was Captain Hale who did all the work.

[George Washington]

And modest, too. Master Erwin, we were just about to retire for prayers. Will you join us?

[Irwin Springer]

Prayers?

[George Washington]

Unless, of course, you don't pray.

[Additional Voices]

Oh. Oh, no.

[Irwin Springer]

I do pray. Every day.

[George Washington]

I'm a Christian, a patriot, and a Christian too. There's no better combination. Let's to it then, my tents. This way. O most glorious God, I acknowledge and confess my faults. In the weak and imperfect performance of the duties of this day. Direct my thoughts, words, and work daily. Frame me more and more into the likeness of thy son, Jesus Christ. In his name. Amen. Amen. Master Erwin, you seem perplexed.

[Irwin Springer]

I. I just can't believe that I'm praying with General Washington. I never knew you were so. I mean, I've always read that you were religious, but I didn't realize how much Jesus really meant to you.

[George Washington]

And what of you, Erwin Springer? Do you hold those truths in your heart?

[Irwin Springer]

Well, I. I guess I never thought about it before. I mean, I've read about it and everything, but until now, I never realized how God really does rule countries. And he is in control of what happens to them. So I guess the answer to your question is yes, sir. I do hold these truths in my heart.

[George Washington]

Then Captain Hale was correct. You are the right man for the job.

[Irwin Springer]

Uh, job? What job?

[George Washington]

Listen carefully. Even as we speak, the second continental Congress is preparing a statement of independence from England. But I fear that some in that assembly do not feel as you and I do, that God must be first in our country. And so I have written a message to them, urging them to remember the ruler of nations as they ready the document. I wish you, Erwin Springer, to deliver this message.

[Jim Daly]

Me?

[George Washington]

I know the journey will be tiring and there is little time, but will you do this for me?

[Irwin Springer]

Oh, yes, sir.

[George Washington]

Excellent. Your horse is waiting outside.

[Irwin Springer]

Uh, horse?

[John Fuller]

Yes.

[Nathan Hale]

You do ride, don't you?

[Irwin Springer]

Well, there's no time like the present to learn. Are you coming with me, Captain Hales?

[Nathan Hale]

No. I'm afraid I must travel a different path. Back to New York.

[Irwin Springer]

But you'll be caught. I mean, if you're caught, won't you be hanged?

[Nathan Hale]

Yes, in all probability. But if that is the Lord's will, then who am I to stand in the way? I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country. Now, up you go.

[George Washington]

Godspeed, Erwin Springer. You carry our best hope.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Onward.

[George Washington]

To liberty.

[Irwin Springer]

To liberty.

[John Fuller]

This is Focus on the Family with Jim Daley. And today we're celebrating the July 4th weekend with another Adventures in Odyssey drama episode. We've got more than a thousand of these episodes for kids of all ages to enjoy. And you can learn more about the series and about the Adventures in Odyssey so you can access all thousand shows and our new upcoming film project, Adventures in Odyssey. The movie. The details are in the show notes. And now let's turn to the conclusion of today's episode of Focus on the Family with Jim Daly.

[Irwin Springer]

Oh, why did I ever think riding a horse was fun? But this is it. The Pennsylvania state house.

[Additional Voices]

Oh, wow.

[Irwin Springer]

I'm sorry. I. Mr. Whitaker?

[Additional Voices]

Who?

[Irwin Springer]

Oh, nothing. You just look like someone from my hometown.

[George Washington]

Really?

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Poor fellow.

[Irwin Springer]

Yeah. Is this where the second continental Congress is meeting?

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Well, indeed it is. That's them in there. Come have a seat, Master Erwin Springer.

[Irwin Springer]

Thanks, but I've been sitting too long already. Besides, I have a message for the congress from General Washington.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Oh, well, we can't keep that waiting, can we? Here, help me up, then, and we'll deliver your message.

[Irwin Springer]

But they're talking.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Oh, that's merely Adams and Dickinson. They're always talking. Come on.

[John Dickinson]

Now.

[George Washington]

Destroying our house in winter and exposing

[John Dickinson]

a growing family before we have got another shelter.

[George Washington]

It is Britain who has already destroyed the shelter.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

President Hancock.

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

Mr. Franklin, we're in debate.

[Irwin Springer]

Benjamin Franklin.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

I realize that, sir. And I apologize for the outburst, but this young gentleman has just arrived with a message from General Washington.

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

Oh, well, then, by all means, do read it.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

All right. Go ahead, Master Springer.

[Additional Voices]

Oh, wow.

[Irwin Springer]

Gentlemen of the Congress, I write you at a most delicate time. Our cause faces its most trying days. General Howe has gathered 30,000 troops ready to strike our position. As usual, we are short on ammunition, rations, and men, but we stand ready to fight, awaiting the outcome of your decision for or against independence.

[Nathan Hale]

There.

[George Washington]

What do you think of your precious king now, Mr. Dickinson? A king who has massed 30,000 troops to attack one of his own colony.

[John Dickinson]

A colony that rebelled against him, sir. Discipline where discipline is due. Discipline.

[George Washington]

Have you forgotten the causes for which we fight? Taxation without representation, the oppression of our citizens.

[John Dickinson]

Unlike you, Mr. Adams, I cannot so easily remove myself from the most powerful empire on the earth. We have no hope of winning. Better live Englishmen than dead patriots.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

There are many, Mr. Dickinson, who would say that to live under English rule is to be dead.

[Nathan Hale]

Hear, hear.

[John Dickinson]

Really, Mr. Franklin. And does this cause merit sending our small army to certain defeat against such overwhelming numbers?

[Irwin Springer]

But it's not certain defeat we'll win honest.

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

Master Springer, you are a guest of this assembly. Please remember that.

[Irwin Springer]

Uh, yes, sir.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

The cause of freedom merits any price, Mr. Dickinson.

[Nathan Hale]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

And as for myself, this great force only spurs my belief that we must strengthen our unity, not weaken it. We must, indeed, all hang together. Almost assuredly we will all hang separately.

[John Dickinson]

I think General Washington will not find his opponents so amusing.

[George Washington]

Of what concern is the size of the enemy. I feel no anxiety at the large army against us. Have we forgotten the remarkable interventions of heaven in our favor? God will not forsake a people engaged in such so righteous a cause if we remember his loving kindness.

[John Dickinson]

And are we so sure that God is with us?

[Irwin Springer]

General Washington thinks so, Master Springer. I'm sorry, President Hancock. I know I shouldn't talk, but I haven't finished the message. I firmly believe that God is on our side as long as we are on his. And so my only request is that you seek the counsel of almighty God and humbly implore his providence in this most solemn g. Washington.

[John Dickinson]

Well, the general's faith does him credit, to be sure. But most military men believe that God is with them. It hardly makes it so. More likely God doesn't care at all about this conflict.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

He cares, Mr. Dickinson. I have lived, sir, a long time. And the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth. That God governs in the affairs of Men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without his aid?

[John Dickinson]

Speak of empires, Dr. Franklin, but I see no empire here. Only 13 colonies trying to bind together into a commonwealth. And what will happen to that Commonwealth in 20 or 30 years, gentlemen? Might not this great union itself become unwieldy and split into separate commonwealths?

[Additional Voices]

No, it won't.

[Irwin Springer]

It'll stay together and grow. What you're doing here today is the beginning of a great nation, the greatest

[Additional Voices]

in the whole world.

[Irwin Springer]

You can't give it up now. You can't.

[John Dickinson]

The idle dreams of youth. But what does reality say, gentlemen? Does it not tell us that this union you hold so dear will dissolve, and the many who have been sacrificed on the altar of freedom will have died in vain? I implore you, gentlemen, don't let that happen. Vote against independence.

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

Mr. Adams, have you anything to say?

[George Washington]

What can I say that hasn't already been hackneyed back and forth a hundred

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

times in this room?

[George Washington]

The issue is plain. Before God. I believe the hour has come. Live or die, survive or perish. I am for the Declaration. It is my living sentiment. And by the blessing of God, it shall be my dying sentiment. Independence now. Independence forever.

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

Gentlemen. Gentlemen. Order, please. It must still be put to the boat.

[John Dickinson]

Mr. President, may I say something?

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

Mr. Dickinson?

[John Dickinson]

I'm sure that my behavior today will finish off my popularity in this land. But I would rather be unpopular forever than vote away the blood and happiness of my countrymen. It's clear I can't stop you. But I also can't, in good conscience vote with you. Therefore, I respectfully take my leave.

[George Washington]

A noble fellow, indeed.

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

To the vote. Gentlemen. Resolved. That these United States are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states. That they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown. And that all political connection between them and the state of Great Britain. Is and ought to be totally dissolved. No. Hampshire. Massachusetts.

[George Washington]

It becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political ban.

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

Rhode Island.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

That all men and are created equaling

[Irwin Springer]

Judge of the world, do declare that united colonies are and of right ought to be free and independent states. And for the support of this Declaration, with firm reliance on the protection of divine providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor.

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

New York.

[John Fuller]

New York respectfully abstains.

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

That's 12 to 0 with one abstention.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

The motion passes. Ride, Irwin Springer. Proclaim the news that these United States under God are now and forevermore free.

[Irwin Springer]

The colonies have independence. The Declaration has Passed. The United States of America are free.

[Additional Voices]

Hooray. Hey. Whoa. Oh, boy. Whoa.

[Irwin Springer]

The United States are free. The United States.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Irwin Erwin. Oh, come on now. Wake up that. Attaboy.

[Additional Voices]

Oh.

[Irwin Springer]

Ow, my head. Oh, Mr. Franklin.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Franklin? No, it's Mr. Whitaker.

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

Easy now, easy.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

You took quite a fall.

[Irwin Springer]

I was. I was in Philadelphia with Benjamin Franklin and John Adams.

[Narrator/Additional Voices]

Oh, it sounds like he's gonna be okay. Well, I'll go check on the ambulance.

[Irwin Springer]

What happened?

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Well, your chair slipped out from under you. Looks like the book hit you and you hit the floor. You were only out for a couple of seconds, but we'll take you to the hospital just in case. Now, what were you talking about when you woke up?

[Irwin Springer]

Oh, I had this incredible dream. I was in the revolution with Nathan Hale. And I prayed with George Washington, and he sent me back to the Continental Congress with a message. And I saw them sign the Declaration of Independence.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa.

[Nathan Hale]

Wait a minute, wait a minute.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Easy now. Sounds like you've had quite an adventure.

[Irwin Springer]

Oh, I know it was only a dream, but it seems so real.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Dreams are that way sometimes.

[Irwin Springer]

Yeah, but. But you know what was really weird, Mr. Whitaker?

[Nathan Hale]

What?

[Irwin Springer]

Benjamin Franklin looked and sounded just like you.

[Mr. Whitaker (Whit)]

Really? Poor fellow.

[Additional Voices]

Oh, wow.

[John Fuller]

This is Focus on the Family with Jim Daly. And we've been enjoying an episode from Adventures in Odyssey, the popular audio drama we have for kids and families.

[Jim Daly]

You know, we often forget or overlook the deep religious faith of our founding fathers, but it's so evident in the letters and articles that they wrote each other. Of course they weren't perfect people. They had their flaws and blind spots, as we all do. But the Lord brought together an incredible group of intelligent, blessed, bright, insightful people to form this great country. And we're still benefiting from the Bible based wisdom and guidance they put in place 250 years ago. I think our Odyssey team did a great job with today's history lesson. It was so creative and fun and thought provoking all at the same time. Our goal with this drama series is to introduce children and families to godly truth and the good news of Jesus Christ. That's at the core of what we do. And that's why we've created a special Adventures in Odyssey Bible for children packed with with more than a thousand engaging elements and beloved characters from Odyssey who can help bring God's word alive for young readers. When you make a monthly pledge of any amount to the ministry, we'll say thank you by putting this children's Bible into your hands.

[John Fuller]

Yeah, it really is a wonderful resource and your kids are going to love it. And it's just one of the many resources we recommend for your family. Now you can find our Odyssey drama series on most Christian radio stations, or you can purchase specific episodes from our website. And then there's the Adventures in Odyssey club, where for a monthly fee, your whole family can enjoy the entire library of more than 1,000 episodes.

[Jim Daly]

And as we mentioned at the beginning, we have a new animated movie coming out in early 2027, Adventures in Odyssey the movie. Pretty straightforward title it is, but it's full of action and mystery and fun for the whole family. You can visit our website to get a sneak peek and a trailer. You know, I believe Adventures in Odyssey is one of the the greatest outreach tools we have here at Focus on the Family. And here's a note from a young man named Jeremiah who confirms it. He said, thank you so much for producing Adventures in Odyssey, which led me to accept Christ when I was 8 or 9 years old. I'm 16 now and I'm walking with God still. I listen to your CDs every night. They help contain my thoughts and help me focus on God. They always provide a message to keep my head above water. Wow, just 16. That's really good.

[John Fuller]

That's a pretty strong testimony there and

[Jim Daly]

I hope that inspires you to become a friend of Focus on the Family with your ongoing support. So together we can reach even more children like Jeremiah and their families thanks to the generosity of friends like you. Our research shows on average, 22 children make a salvation decision for Christ every day. About 9,000 children a year. And I want to invite you to become part of that to enjoy the bounty of that spiritual fruit. Let's do this together. Let's reach another 20,000 children and introduce them to Jesus.

[John Fuller]

Yeah. Join us in this outreach with your monthly pledge or one time gift. In response, we'll send that Adventures in Odyssey Bible for children to you. And we'll have details about the Adventures in Odyssey club and also the upcoming movie all online. Our phone number is 800, the letter A in the word family or check the show notes for all the links. Thanks for listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly. I'm John Fuller inviting you back as we once again help you and your family thrive in Christ.

[Focus on the Family Announcer]

Pastors, if you're struggling to help couples in your church whose marriage is in trouble, we can help Marriage 911 by focus on the Family trains laypeople to mentor married couples. Each kit includes two training guides, four workbooks, and all the training necessary to meet with couples who need help, go to marriage911.com that's marriage the numbers911.com.