 Most of us will just enjoy the hot-dogs, parades and fireworks. If you are one of those folk, then maybe I should just wish a Happy Fourth and say good-bye.
For some, though, the place of patriotism in the life of a Christian is one that creates considerable tension. Trevin Wax recently blogged about this. Since he is probably taking the day off, and might not get around to reviewing my comment, you can find ithere.
You would profit from reading Wax's thoughts, but here are his "Moving Forward" thoughts, with some additions, in italics, from me:
- American believers should give thanks to God for the blessings of our temporary earthly citizenship, as long as we emphasize blessings of belonging to the eternal, multinational family of God.
- When people in our culture are celebrating the benefits of earthly citizenship, American believers should seize the opportunity to communicate solid, biblical teaching on the distinction between earthly and heavenly citizenship. We should use the privileges we have as earthly citizens to further the Kingdom of God.
- As American believers express gratitude for this nation, we should be careful not to diminish the value and worth of other nations. Even in a small congregation like Covington Bible Church there are representatives of other nations.
- Pastors and church leaders should make it clear that American believers have more in common with Arab believers in Iraq and Syria than they do with their unbelieving next-door neighbors. This is true not only across national borders, but concerning the various sub-cultures within our own nation.
- There is something beautiful about a congregation that shows respect and gratitude to people who have served their neighbors well. When we recognize veterans or law enforcement officers, we are lifting up ordinary citizens doing extraordinary things for the good of their communities. I have been profoundly moved in this regard, as I have visited places that US forces liberated from tyranny, Dachau, Normandy, Gettysburg. We can, and should be thankful, for those who served our nation, and accomplished much good. We should not allow wars that didn't turn out so well, to cause us to lose all respect for those serve, and have served.
As I write on this Fourth of July morning, my American flag is hanging on my front porch. I hope with the proper understanding, I'll wave.
It's STTA:
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