Flags & Faith?

Sighting:  Communion Sunday July 4th, communion cups neatly arranged on the narthex table over an American flag decoration?  Hmm, that's different.  Yup, that's dangerous, theologically speaking.  Because as we know, Christ's work on the cross was for all time, all peoples, living in all places.  

"God so loved the world that he sent his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Have you noted the latest publishing project, God Bless the USA Bible to be released in September 2021?  Why package the Bible plus U.S. Constitution, Pledge of Allegiance, and song lyrics "God Bless the USA?   Why conflate American nationalism and politics with the ancient, international Christian faith?  This too is dangerous drift, theologically speaking.  

No one country can claim Christ.  God's kingdom was ushered in at the cross where heaven and earth met in Christ.  

Yes, understanding basic Christian theology still matters, profoundly so.

Transitions

Have your life plans screeched to a halt?  Where is God in the midst of crisis?  

The 2020 pandemic has shaken lives around the world in ways we can't ignore:  health concerns, business closings and job loss, restricted travel, disrupted routines and ways we socialize or don't.  

Stress mounts.  Now American deaths nearly equal those from WWII.  Mental illness is on the rise and discussed in forums, publications, and broadcasts.  So many of us have been personally impacted by trauma, fear, and loss. 

There is no instant fix, no easy way to reset to "normal."  Is this what the serenity prayer means by "Accepting hardship as a pathway to peace:"

Coping styles differ.  Some deny realities and cry hoax.  They blame.  They attack. 
Others jump in to help essential workers and the hurting.  They raise funds, give away food, or help with childcare and housing.  Medical information, supplies, and care are given by many.  What does loving your neighbor look like?

In human history, many have suffered various trials, disasters, or "lifequakes" as Bruce Feiler refers to them in his book, Life Is In the Transitions:  Mastering Change at Any Age, 2020.)  Historian David McCullough reminds us in The American Spirit: Who We Are and What We Stand For, 2017 that character and conviction have enabled Americans to persevere, problem solve, and pursue life.  James 1 encourages us to ask God for wisdom and assures us trials are indeed the pathway to maturity. 

Walk with God, hold on to your faith, and meet the day.  Your life matters.  You are needed now.  

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

"The Hill We Climb"  Amanda Gorman, 1/20/21