We live in a country rich with blessings because there were those before us who understood the values mentioned in the pledge to our flag: I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands; one nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all.
A few thoughts:
- “I pledge allegiance to the Republic (all have a say through elected representatives) named the United States symbolized by this flag!” I am pledged to my country, not its symbol.
- “I pledge allegiance to the idea of a nation of people in an undividable unity with freedoms and rights under the rule of law (justice) for all her citizens.” I am about my fellow citizens.
- “I pledge allegiance to a nation who recognizes her place under the eye and hand of God.” We have been blessed and successful because of God’s favor – NOT our worthiness or goodness!
But what has happened to this noble country and the noble ideals noted in the Pledge? We have become a mass of individuals busy about self.
Just contemplate the verbiage we are daily subjected to: “you deserve”, “a trophy”, “you are a hero”, “you are amazing”, “you are a victim”, “pride month”, “take care of #1”… talk about “me.”
We have “community organizers” who seek to gather a group to stand against another group. Technology and media platforms like Facebook and TikTok have only accented or magnified our focus on self over “We the people”, “one nation” and “all”. We are now all about posting our experience, seeking praises and WOW’s for our adventures or doings. So, we pose for pictures with certain people or in special places that we can immediately post to show the world and receive acclaim. We are about self-glory!
Part of the demise of this country is that Christians are too much enveloped in this cultural mindset of self rather than living in a Jesus mindset.
Jesus’ life focus was “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). And “I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do” (John 17:4, 8:50). And “For I have given to them the words which You have given Me; and they have received them” (John 17:8).
What should mark the followers of Jesus? God being boldly and clearly promoted (one nation under God) and others served (freedom and justice for all), even sacrificed for. Others!
We are to love our God fully and passionately and love our neighbors much (Mark 12:29-31). Yes – One nation under God – undivided – liberty and justice for all.
In a world of pronouns – “me” and “I” – be an adjective! Be marked by “saved”, “redeemed”, and “forgiven”.
A verse I often used with the kids: “Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips,” Proverbs 27:2.
I asked the men yesterday if they could give their salvation testimony without using the word “I”? When standing before Jesus in judgment and if asked why you should be given entrance into eternal life with Him, what will you answer? Does your answer use the word “I”? If it does, you are likely not saved!!
a PK Musing 
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