The American Patriot

I cannot really remember when I first had some idea what it was to be patriotic  as an American. Perhaps it was when I began to learn in school the pledge of allegiance and to be still when we said it or when as a boy I saw my Dad's brother, Colie Wall Jr.,  head off to serve in the United States Army.   Maybe it was in cub scouts when we learned the words to our National Anthem and  were taught to fold the flag into a nicely neat triangle shape.   Maybe it was that November day as a boy when I heard the mill whistle blow in the middle of the day and my Grandfather Wall told me it was Armistice Day, the day when World War I ended in the 11th month, on the 11th day, and at the 11th hour.

This week is one week when American patriotism seems to be everywhere as Independence Day parades pass by, flags are  flown, and  patriotic songs are played on the radio on stations that normally play another music genre.   I certainly would not argue that American patriotism is all of the above.   Yes, it is flag flying, patriotic music, and Independence Day parades.  Yes,  American patriotism is standing and saying the pledge of alleigance, serving in our armed forces, and singing the National Anthem.   However, I believe that American patriotism  is far more than that including the following:

--American patriotism is stating your beliefs even in the face of disgreement and doing it in a way that does not display a disagreeable spirit and allowing others to do the same
--American patriotism is affirming the right of people to worship in ways that are not your own and the right of people not to worship at all
--American patriotism is the ability to see a person of a different color, different national origin, or different beliefs as a fellow citizen
-- American patriotism is believing that it is right to help your fellow human being in need and using your money and action (or government money)  to do it

I am grateful to God for the priviledge to live in this country and be an American.   I am concerned about some of  the things I see being done and said  in the public arena in this country.  In the midst of whatever this 4th of July week is for you,  I invite you to give thanks to God for this country, pray for all its leaders, and consider what it means to be patriotic.   Have a joy-filled week.-  Pastor Randy Wall

Prayer:  Lord and God,   I give you thanks this week for the United States of America.  Bless its leaders to lead in wisdom  and compassion, justice and mercy.   Help us all to practice all that means to truly believe in God we trust;  through Christ our Lord.  Amen.