This past weekend most of us celebrated our country’s 245th birthday with family gatherings, cookouts, and fireworks. Additionally, numerous Americans proudly flew their flag as a way of displaying their patriotism. According to legend, the first American flag was made by Betsy Ross, a seamstress in Philadelphia who was acquainted with George Washington. The first flag was raised near Washington’s headquarters just outside of Boston on Jan 1, 1776. It was originally flown to display our nationalism, as well as our rebellion against the tyranny of Great Britain. Our American flag is a symbol of our freedom, dignity, and independence. It has been proudly displayed at parades, above government buildings, and at private homes. It is placed on the graves of brave men and women who gave their lives in battle so that we might remain a free nation. It flies high during times of peace, as well as during times of war. It has been honored and respected by millions throughout its history. It has been despised and dishonored by our enemies, and sadly by many Americans, who according to them “are expressing freedom of speech,” by stomping on it, burning it, or turning their back on it when our National Anthem is being played. In spite of that, “Old Glory” still proudly stands, still represents freedom, and is the “banner” for all Americans.
There is another real freedom that needs to be displayed every day of the year. It is our freedom “In Christ” to live a life that brings glory and honor to Him. His banner of love, truth, hope, grace, mercy, and peace, desperately needs to be flown high for all to see. Thousands of Americans are living under the tyrannical rule of Satan. They are bound by the ropes of despair, sin, and hopelessness. They can be set free by the precious blood of Jesus Christ, sacrificially given on the cross of Calvary!
Romans 8:2 says, “For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.”
Jesus is a banner over us, He loves us, cares for us, and protects us. “But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; My glory, and the lifter up of mine head.” (Psalm 3:3)
As the flag represents freedom and protection in America, the cross and the empty tomb represents freedom “in Christ,” as well as freedom from sin and servitude. Be a proud American by displaying your flag, by standing at attention when “The Star Spangled Banner” is being played, by proudly singing patriotic songs, and protect those rights by being involved in the political system. Be a proud Christian by openly sharing the gospel with others, by praising Him through song and word, and wave the Christian banner high by living an obedient, Biblical life so that Jesus Christ can be seen in everything you do!
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)