The World Cup continues in South Arica with a noteworth drop-off of interest in the United States. When Team USA advanced to the title round, the FIFA World Cup was the lead story for local and national sports programming. By appearances, millions of Americans instantaneously converted into soccer fans. Reality surfaced, however, when Team USA was eliminated. Heightened World Cup interest is not passion for the sport of soccer, but instead an opportunity for rallying together as Americans There are certainly many very rabid soccer fans in the USA, but flag-wavers far outnumber true “football” fans.
Similar to patriotism’s link with this sports spectacle, there is a July 4th temptation to marry allegiance to USA with love for God. It is certainly appropriate to pray God’s blessings on America. Patriotism is not however equal to worship of God. Christians in America must not be guilty of a “World Cup/soccer” model regarding relationship to God and our church. Instead, be as passionate for Jesus as the true soccer fan is passionate about the game. Flag-waving is appropriate at soccer games and gratitude to God for our nation ought to always be expressed. Do not however equate patriotism with worship.
This Sunday, USA again celebrates Independence Day. It is an historical fact that the founding fathers sought direction from God. For example, Benjamin Franklin wrote, “Sin is not hurtful because it is forbidden, but it is forbidden because it is hurtful. Nor is a duty beneficial because it is commanded, but it is commanded because it is beneficial.” The Christian heritage of the USA is well documented. Prayer and patriotism are in harmony. Relationship with God and nationalism are not however equal. A believer’s primary allegiance is to Jesus! Christians are citizens of the Kingdom of God, and thus all believers are aliens on this planet. Prayer for USA begins with personal repentance & commitment to join God in His work. Words are hollow if Americans sing God Bless America but do not live with fervent faithfulness to God. Thus our gatherings at First Highlands are primarily celebrations of allegiance to Jesus. All other reasons for gathering, including patriotic ceremonies, are secondary to worship of God. The first & foremost commitment is that Jesus is Lord. He is above all else, including your USA freedoms. On this holiday weekend, pray that God will be glorified by all gatherings at FBCH. As you worship with other believers, pray for God’s direction personally & for the USA. Celebrate independence in your 2010 July 4th observances, but freedom in Christ must be your passion in life. Your 1st priority as a believer is to bring glory to God!