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Hello, this is Mark Hanson, ELCA presiding bishop. I have wonderful memories of our community Fourth of July celebration: decorating my bicycle with the red, white and blue crepe paper for the parade; afternoon children's races at the park; friends from out of town joining us for a picnic; the day ending with fireworks which, depending upon my age, left me either terrified or with a sense of awe.
Independence Day is a wonderful annual holiday, not only for the activities, but surrounding this day for many is deep gratitude for living in a democratic nation. We know that our country isn't perfect, yet we also know that it is a nation based upon ideals of human liberty, justice and the common good. Healthy patriotism is an important dimension of citizenship. Wise and active citizenship is part of our vocation in the world. It is in our citizenship that we have the opportunity no, more than that; the responsibility to defend human rights and work for freedom, justice, peace, environmental well-being and good order in public life. We recognize the vital role of law in protecting life, liberty and the welfare of all people.
Someone once said, "Patriotism is allowing others to love their country as much as I love mine." That being the case, perhaps it is now time we have a global interdependence day and not just national independence days.
I believe it is important for us to think about the distinct difference between patriotism and our Christian faith. Our faith center is Jesus Christ, our crucified and risen Lord. We live our lives striving faithfully to understand and embody the teachings of our Lord. We must not equate patriotism with our Christian faith. In fact, in our witness to Jesus as Lord there will be times when our journey in faith brings us in conflict with policies of the government. Think of the critical role of the Church in opposing unjust segregation laws in our country. Thus, with Martin Luther, this church understands that, to rebuke unjust laws and those in authority "through God's word spoken publicly, boldly and honestly, [is] not seditious but a praiseworthy, noble and particularly great service to God."
Let us robustly, but not blindly, celebrate our national recognition of American democracy. Healthy patriotism is a good thing, yet it is the living God we worship and adore. It is only this God who redeems, sanctifies and brings all creation to fulfillment in God's reign. A prayer in the Lutheran Book of Worship captures this moment well.
Lord, keep all nations under your care. May we as a nation be at peace among ourselves and a blessing to other nations of the earth. Help us elect trustworthy leaders, contribute to wise decisions for the general welfare, and thus serve you faithfully in our generation to the honor of your holy name, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Article appeared in the July 1, 2002 edition of Hotline.
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