July 4 is right around the corner, and I’ve been giving some thought lately to the issue of patriotism and the Christian. Before I continue, let me refer you to another new blogger’s post on the issue in which he quotes a couple of very thought provoking paragraphs from William Lloyd Garrison.
I raise the issue because many churches will no doubt celebrate the 4th with a worship service completely ordered around American flags and patriotic tunes. Hear me correctly in this: I’m not necessarily implying that there is anything wrong with patriotism. I am saying that I don’t think it is necessarily appropriate to have a worship service at church that is orinted in this way. Should we thank God for the ability to meet freely and openly? Yes. But draping a big flag down the middle of the church building? Just doesn’t feel appropriate. God is a God of all nations, and our ultimate citizenship is in heaven.
Feel free to debate this issue by using the comments section. I suppose this is my first foray into more controversial waters. Maybe I’ll follow Rick Bennett’s pattern by having one blog for routine updates and one to tackle more controversial issues. I’m still figuring all of this stuff out.