don't give up on America
04 - 07/23 /11:46
American Christians sometimes do unusual things in pursuit of patriotism.
During WW1, many Lutheran congregations raised American flags in their sanctuaries and hung patriotic bunting. It was a sensible display since many Lutherans still worshiped in their religion’s native language at a time when the USA was at war with Germany. Brandishing patriotic symbols was a plausible way to deflect charges of disloyalty.
During WW1, many Lutheran congregations raised American flags in their sanctuaries and hung patriotic bunting. It was a sensible display since many Lutherans still worshiped in their religion’s native language at a time when the USA was at war with Germany. Brandishing patriotic symbols was a plausible way to deflect charges of disloyalty.
~ Adapted from an article by Prof D.G. Hart, Hillsdale College ~
Thirty years ago on Independence Day weekend, a famous Baptist congregation in Atlanta sang “The Battle Hymn of the Republic.” How uniquely patriotic to watch Americans in Atlanta sing a tune that inspired the destruction of their city.
In certain sectors of the Christian world, such patriotic excess is in marked decline. For Christian critics of the American experiment, patriotism is misguided if not corrupt. Our nation no longer honors God through its ceremonies and institutions. These critics also abhor the tendency to define the USA as a redeemer nation—as a city on the hill.
In the Founders’ version of American greatness, if Christians complain about the nation’s religious decline, we have only ourselves to blame. The American founding assigned government a limited role, anticipating many social functions—including religion—to be met by local non-governmental organizations. One founding principle we have abandoned was the founders ideal of a nation that relied on civic associations, private organizations and virtuous citizens who learned morality at church, in the home and in school.
Good reasons remain for Christinas to celebrate Independence Day—not because the country is carrying out a divine mission but rather because it makes room for people like us to practice our faith. Instead of American “greatness” stemming from conformity to Christian norms, America is “great” because churches can thrive here.
American patriotism distinguishes the functions of government from the substance of faith, which is why it can unite believers of diverse faiths in celebrations of the founding.
Christians may not wish to sing the national anthem during worship. It’s possible to mix expressions of religious faith with patriotic fervor in ways that are unwise. And as happened in the name of Covid, the government can make demands that violate religious liberty. Believers then should, as the apostles did, “obey God rather than the emperor.”
Still, giving thanks to God for the USA is noble. Gratitude is a Christian virtue. It’s entirely appropriate to express it in backyard barbecues, with fireworks, and during worship. ~
Blessings,
Dan Nygaard