GOOD THINKING: AMERICA CELEBRATES ITS FREEDOMS

"I pledge my allegiance to the United States of America."

An American flag stands at the front of the church sanctuary. This flag reminds us of the greatness of our nation, of the rights and privileges we enjoy as its citizens, and of the great debt we owe to our country.

Independence Day is the time we set aside to pay tribute to all those men and women who gave of themselves, under the guidance of God, to build a great nation where every person might live in freedom. In this country, we have certain freedoms:

Freedom of religion: We can gather to worship our God in any way we choose, without fear of harassment or imprisonment.

Freedom of speech: We can speak about and debate any issue. We are free to speak, even critically, of our government and it leaders.

Freedom of the press: We are free to express our beliefs and our opinions through the media without fear of reprisal.

Freedom of assembly: We are free to gather in groups: business meetings, rock concerts, community forums and religious services. No one can disperse us without due process of the law.

Freedom and rights: We have the right to privacy, the right to have our day in court, and the right to... "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness."

We owe our loyalty to our nation: We owe our country our best thinking, our most creative ideas, our best talents and skills. We owe it to our nation to participate in the process of government as Christian citizens.

As Christian citizens, we look at our nation as being under the rule and authority of God. A Christian citizen treats others with compassion and love, and offers forgiveness and mercy to those who hurt us. A Christian citizen brings a new and different approach to government, and to all of life!