Yesterday during church service, I really struggled to keep it together. My 6 middle children sang the special and the song they had been practicing was patriotic.
Last month as we were practicing, I had worried it was not good timing for a Patriot song, as the Fourth of July had already passed. We typically sing a hymn, but this song definitely reflected Christ and how much our nation continues to keep peace in this world.
I never want to focus more on our country than on Christ. For we are Christians first, Americans second. But I decided to go with it, praying that it would a blessing someone.
This week we have watched the events unfold in Afghanistan. It has been a week of concern and much disappointment. Most of us can conclude that the chaos was unnecessary and could have been prevented. It is shameful to watch what has been going on with so many American soldiers risking their lives to make sure there is safe passage for the ones that want to leave oppression and persecution, only to end like it has.
We have seen our fair share of heartache in this country and we understand that freedom does not come free. Yet, there is a bigger agenda going on here.
As our soldiers were coming home in coffins, my kids were singing The Patriots Honor in church.
As I am listening to my kids sing from my seat, I wept. I wept because my heart was breaking for the soldier’s families being awoken by a knock at their front door, and met by United States Marines reporting the dreaded news no one wants to hear.
I was overwhelmed knowing the men, women, and children were running for safe passage in Afghanistan, having to care for their hungry, dehydrated, and very scared children. I felt such heaviness for the people in America that still believe we serve a good God, but are riddled with fear by the world around them.
It was so much that I was tearful through the whole service. I couldn’t collect my thoughts very well. What kind of world are my children going to have to face? One of tyranny or one of peace?
We all feel the heaviness when we watch our soldiers fall and the oppression people experience. The only hope we have is Jesus. The peace He gives us surpasses all understanding in a day where persecution is at its best. We can not ever forget who we are and why we were born during such a time as this.
Let us raise warriors, so if and when we have to fight, then we will be ready. The chaos of this world should keep us motivated to continue memorizing the Word of God with our families. It is the best weapon we will ever have against the enemy.
Even though yesterday was a tearful one for me, my joy came in the morning. I can not forget to keep fighting for what is right, stand in Truth, and never back away from a demonic agenda. For we are Christians first, Americans second.
May God continue to protect and bless the United States of America, one nation under God.
In Christ,
Natalie