Remembering, Waiting, and Being: A Fourth of July Reflection on Faith and Patriotism

Created: JANUARY 27, 2025

The American flag stands as a powerful emblem of patriotism, its design echoing the nation's foundational values. The flag's symbolism, steeped in history and faith, serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom, the importance of seeking divine guidance, and the call to embody faith through love and service.

American flag

The red stripes call us to remember the cost of liberty, from the battlefields of the Revolution to the global conflicts that have shaped our world. Reflecting on the sacrifices made at Omaha Beach and other sites of conflict underscores the immeasurable value of freedom and the importance of gratitude. This remembrance should fuel our commitment to preserving the hard-won liberties we enjoy.

Taking a deep dive into the Declaration of Independence

100-year-old US flag made for WWI soldiers returns home

The white stripes symbolize the need to wait upon God's guidance. This involves actively engaging in faith communities and seeking spiritual renewal. The words of President George H.W. Bush and Abraham Lincoln serve as reminders of the importance of aligning ourselves with God's will, seeking His wisdom in navigating the complexities of life.

George H.W. Bush

When asked if he thought the Lord was on his side during the Civil War, Lincoln responded, "My concern is not whether God is on our side, but whether we are on God's side<i>."</i> (Digital restoration by Steven Wynn)

The blue field represents the call to simply be – to embody our faith through love and action. This involves loving not just those who are easy to love, but also those with whom we disagree. Transcending the divisions of a polarized world requires embracing love as the greatest virtue, fostering understanding and unity amidst differing viewpoints.

Flag Day fireworks

milwaukee american flag

On this Fourth of July, let us embrace the symbolism of the American flag – to remember the sacrifices made for our freedom, to wait upon God’s guidance, and to be agents of love and service in the world. By embodying these principles, we can truly proclaim liberty and contribute to a more blessed and united nation.

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