Listen, I'm tired of this story, too. I really, really, REALLY am tired of this story. But, an intriguing thought occurred to me yesterday which, in my opinion, must be shared.
I've observed Colin Kaepernick and other NFL players taking a knee during our nation's anthem. Kaepernick stated at the very beginning that he refuses to acknowledge the flag of a country that has so much racism and social injustice. He says his actions aren't about disrespecting the flag or the men who fought and died for America.
I've observed American patriots (not the New England ones...see what I did there?) cry foul, boycott the sport, and complain loudly about the disrespect shown to the flag and the military.
It's been intriguing, if nothing else, to see just how passionate people can get when someone starts disrespecting something they care about.
What's interesting is witnessing folks passionately defending the American flag who have defended a lack of passion in worship with the excuse "I'm just not an emotional person". You know who I'm talking about - those folks that look judgmentally across the sanctuary at the people who worship a little too boldy for their taste. Not the ones who have physical limitations; I'm talking about the ones who claim their style of worship - sitting in the pew emotionless - is acceptable because they "just aren't emotional".
Now, let's get something straight before the lynching mob heads to my front door. I am thankful for the sacrifices made by our soldiers to secure and defend our freedoms. I am thankful I live in a country where I am free to worship God without government interference. I respect our flag and those who have fought for it. We truly are blessed to live in America.
But, I'm afraid some in the church go a little far with their love of country. Listen, I love my earthly home, but it is not my eternal home. This world, this country, my state, my city...they are all temporary. I don't belong here; as the old song says "I'm just passing through".
Should Christians be patriotic? Sure! Should Christians be proud of our country's accomplishments? Yes! Should Christians hold the American flag in higher regard than the banner of the gospel? No!
I respect the American flag, but it cannot compare to the cross, an even greater symbol of what I believe and who I am. I don't want it to come across that patriotism is the enemy here, because it's not. Idolatry is.
Lately I've seen many Christians get fired up, emotional, and defensive over disrespect of Old Glory. More, in fact, than I've seen get fired up, emotional, and defensive over disrespect of God by our culture.
How many people have you seen on social media demanding others to respect the American flag? How many people have you seen on social media demanding others to cease cursing God with their lips and their lifestyle?
I'm guilty of getting lackadaisical, too. Sometimes I'll see a self-proclaimed Christian living an openly sinful lifestyle, with no regard to holiness or any concern for living a life pleasing to God...and I'll say nothing. I don't want to hurt feelings or appear judgmental...so I usually keep my mouth shut.
Why is it that a picture of an NFL player kneeling on the sideline moves us to action/correction, but not a Christian abusing the name of Jesus?
Why is it that disrespect for the American flag sends us into a frenzy, but not disrespect for God, our Father, our Lord?
It appears some folks who "aren't emotional" actually are emotional, they just aren't as passionate about their God as they are their country's flag. This is what we call idolatry.
What's your identity? Are you an American? Or are you a child of God whose home is not built by human hands? One is temporary; one is eternal. I warn anyone offended by this message to closely consider which has more value to you: your earthly citizenship or your heavenly citizenship. When this earth and everything within has passed away, God's word will remain. When our country ceases to exist, our eternal kingdom will remain.
So, love your country, respect the flag and what it represents, thank a veteran, and be thankful for your earthly citizenship within a country where this beautiful experiment in freedom has allowed us more opportunities than the rest of the world has been afforded. But you should push yourself closer to God if He isn't getting more respect, more love, more attention, more passion, and more affection than a flag.
Take note of what pulls out your deepest emotions. This will reveal the thing which is most valuable to you. If that isn't God, it's time to reorganize the priority list.
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