Happy Fourth! I pray everyone had a good fourth of July. For me, the fourth conjures up memories of gunpowder in the afternoon, picnics, hamburgers and hot dogs, and the best ideals of those that fought and died to help found this great country. What are the images that conjure up for you on the fourth of July?
This fourth I’ve read three great articles I want to share. One is from Time magazine (New Patriotism) on how Conservatives and Liberals need each other. Their best quote is the line, “Conservatives think patriotism is a tribute to the past. Liberals believe it’s a key to the future.” I can relate to this. I look back to see the great things this country has accomplished and I’m filled with pride, but I’m hesitant also because we’ve done some horrendous things to be ashamed about as well. Ultimately, for this country to reestablish itself into the global community we need to come together (all cultures, races, ideologies, etc.) and begin the conversation on what makes us distinct and great. Then we need to do the hard work that will be needed to remind and rebuild ourselves into what it means to be a part of the USA.
Another article is from the blog Orienteering about representing the flag in worship. I can’t agree more! I’ve seen too many pastors manipulate congregations into frenzied nationalism using religion in the mix and it makes my stomach churn. Many of the churches I served had the Christian flag and American flag displayed in the sanctuary. As pastor, I would slowly (education not trickery) move the flags outside of the sanctuary to either the fellowship hall or the Narthex doors just before entering the sanctuary. I did this not to disrespect the flag but to be honest in reflecting the symbols Christians are called to recognize in worship. Unfortunately, this hasn’t always been successful. I served one church in which someone who would always arrive early to move the flags back. This person even snuck into the church cut the pole on the Christian flag so that the American flag would take dominance.
—-Some people just don’t get it.
The last article is from Peter DeGroote describing some of the hard work that is still left to be done in this wonderful country.
I pray everyone continues the celebration of Independence.
peace and biscuits,
revslick
Tags: flag, Independence, July