#  455  07/14/08  Teaching a higher allegiance

Patriotism is important to Christians.  In the past two weeks, I have written about teaching our children to respect the flag, the laws and the elected officials of our country.  That respect comes from the knowledge that God is supreme.  No law or elected official is there except that God has allowed them to be there.  Standing before Pilate, Jesus said, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above.”  John 19:11a.  Paul wrote to the Romans, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”  Romans 13:1.

I find comfort in those Scriptures.  I am glad that there is no conflict between my allegiance to God and to my country since I know that my first allegiance is to God and his Kingdom.  Worshiping God above all else does not keep me from honoring and respecting my country, its laws and its officials.  I can stand tall and proud with my hand over my heart when I say, “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America…”

Christians also have a higher allegiance.  Years ago, we began to say the Pledge to the Christian Flag as part of my church’s Independence Day service.  I was embarrassed that I needed to look at the printed pledge because I didn’t have it memorized.  Perhaps you would like to teach this important pledge to your children: 

"I pledge allegiance to the Christian Flag and to the Savior for whose kingdom it stands.  One brotherhood, uniting all mankind, in service and love."

I pray for our country to return to the Christian foundation upon which it was built.  It may get farther away before it does return, but I have one assurance.  God never changes.  His way is the right way no matter how the country is governed.  For that reason, we must teach our children that their first allegiance will always be to the King of kings, the Name above all names.