This year’s Fourth of July will be one of the most memorable celebrations in our nation’s history as we mark 250 years of American independence.
I have to admit, when it comes to the Fourth of July and being an American, I’m all in. I love hot dogs, baseball, fireworks, and gathering with family and friends. There is much about our country that I deeply appreciate.
But there is one aspect of being an American that I value more than all the others combined: religious freedom.
The ability to gather when and where we choose, to worship according to our convictions, and to share the message of our faith without fear of government interference or persecution is a remarkable gift. May this always remain true of America.
For Christians, patriotism can sometimes be complicated. There is often pressure to choose between being a committed Christian and a proud American. I don’t believe those two things are mutually exclusive. I love my country and am grateful for the freedoms it provides. But my highest allegiance belongs to a greater Kingdom – the Kingdom of Christ.
There is a danger, however, in confusing faith in God with faith in America. When that happens, Christianity can become little more than patriotism with a little Jesus sprinkled on top. We begin to elevate our democracy, our history, and our freedoms to a place they were never meant to occupy.
The founding documents of the United States are important and worthy of study. One of the most famous lines in the Declaration of Independence affirms our rights to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
Those are wonderful principles for a nation. But they are not the pillars upon which the Church of Jesus Christ is built.
I am grateful to live in a country that values life, yet Jesus calls me to die to myself. He reminds us that unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains alone. But if it dies, it produces much fruit.
I enjoy the liberty we possess as Americans, yet I willingly surrender my life to Christ. Scripture describes believers as servants of Jesus, and I gladly place my life in His hands and in His service.
And while happiness is a wonderful blessing, it is not my ultimate pursuit. Happiness rises and falls with circumstances. Joy is different. Joy is rooted in the unchanging reality that I am known and loved by God. It is the confidence that no matter what happens in this life, my future is secure in Him.
So while I love our country, I am wholly devoted to Christ. I am thankful that America allows me the freedom to live out the faith God has called me to follow. But my Christianity must always shape my patriotism – not the other way around.
So this Fourth of July, enjoy the fireworks. Eat a hot dog. Sing the songs. Celebrate the blessings of our nation.
And as we say, “God bless America,” may we genuinely pray that God would bless our country – and that our country would seek His blessing.
Andy Addis | Lead Pastor