I know many Christians who believe that Patriotism is un-Christian and that love of country is a form of bigotry, racism and xenophobia.  Xenophobia (pr. zeno-phobia) means a fear of foreigners.  While bigotry, racism and xenophobia are ugly and hateful, the love of country is not.  This idea that getting emotional over the stars and stripes is a spiritual sickness is wrongheaded and not consistent with scripture.   To categorize patriots as bigots is like saying, “if you deeply love your own family you hate all the other families in the neighborhood,” or “if you love your church it means you hate all other churches.”  That’s ridiculous.

What does the Bible say?

He makes nations great, and he destroys them; he enlarges nations, and leads them away. (Job 12:23)

Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king. 1 Peter 2:17

Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord … Psalm 33:12

So on this memorial day, remember it’s not only an American thing to appreciate the people who fought and died to defend our liberty, it’s a biblical thing.  I’m pretty sure we’ve had wars that were not about protecting national security as they were advertised, but remember we are all members of a fallen race. Globalism isn’t going to be anymore pristine and perfect than nationalism.  So go ahead, enjoy your barbecue but pause to respect our national heroes; it will do your heart good and you’ll be biblically correct, even if you’re not politically correct.