Another 4th of July and
local church sanctuaries become shrines for the flag.
In
observance we stand as the flag enters and is presented. Silent and
still and somber as the choir sings The Star
Spangled-Banner. The lyrics are periodically paused as a reader
provides details of the writer’s motivation. And we demonstrate our
religious heritage by pledging allegiance to the
Stars and Strips god that waves before the
Cross.
Forgetting that His word still stands, as one we
express allegiance in equal parts to Caesar and Christ recognizing
neither as jealous.1
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Exodus 34:14 (KJV) For thou shalt worship no other god:
for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God:
Joshua 24:20-23
(KJV) If ye forsake the LORD, and serve strange gods, then he will turn
and do you hurt, and consume you, after that he hath done you good. {21}
And the people said unto Joshua, Nay; but we will serve the LORD. {22}
And Joshua said unto the people, Ye are witnesses against yourselves
that ye have chosen you the LORD, to serve him. And they said, We are
witnesses. {23} Now therefore put away, said he, the strange gods which
are among you, and incline your heart unto the LORD God of Israel.