Patriotism and God ~
When I hear our National Anthem, it still brings tears to my
eyes. It was not that long ago that I spoke to an elder in
regard to the lack of patriotism among our youth. His response
was that every generation expresses such concerns. But,
something always happens to change it. September 11th might have
been just the horror to awaken patriotism in the hearts of this
generation.
Patriotism is a good thing, to recognize that each of us is
part of a bigger community (a people we cherish, honor, and
love); valuing life, freedom of religion, pursuit of happiness à
things that reach the depths of our soul (treasures money, power,
and greed can not buy or fabricate).
God is not against any of these. Though, we cannot hide our
heads in the sand; letting people think patriotism, alone, will
solve all that ails us as a nation.
Flying our country's flag is representative of our values; a
visible show of patriotism, emotional support for those we love,
an expression of our unity, honoring our dearly departed, etc.
But, doing so brings no power to change our future. If we truly
believed in God's provision for healing our land, we would come
near flying the Christian flag; to encourage all to give God back
His throne, within our hearts and lives (which is all He really
wants, anyway).
While we open our heart and door to opportunities to make a
difference, there is only one real solution to fixing the world's
problems. As long as we allow people to think there is another
way, our efforts are like striving against the wind.
God gave His terms for doing what is otherwise impossible ...
"If my people, which are called by my name,
shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face,
and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven,
and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."
2 Ch. 7:14
Changing the world begins by, first, changing ourselves.
Only then do we have God's promise that He will heal our land,
other's land, and the world. The lost are no to blame. To
continue to ignore that, to not face the truth of the condition
of the world, to not hold ourselves personally accountable for
our part ... times will only get worse.
God can not continue to bless America when we do not follow
His leading. Scripture does not even grant us the right to claim
the name 'Christian' except we are, first, His disciple (Acts
11:26). God does not ask us to be perfect or even good enough.
In fact, His requirements are really very simple.
"He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good;
and what doth the Lord require of thee,
but to do justly, and to love mercy,
and to walk humbly with thy God?"
Micah 6:8
Whatever flag you are waving, make sure God is given first place.
You have been given the power to change your world.
It is up to you what you do with it.
® by Joyce C. Lock
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About the Author:
Joyce C. Lock is a published author, poet, and columnist.
In addition, she founded and maintains the email ministries
"Heavenly Inspirations"
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/HeavenlyInspirations/ and
"Share a Smile"
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/smilesharing/ .
Joyce's writings encourage us in our relationship with God and
each other.
