I Believe

Days before I posted my July 4th post, I had put up my "red, white and blue" decor'. Patriotism is a big deal to me. My dad and my brother served in the armed forces, my brother-in-law did, and my oldest grandson serves now. I am proud to be an American, and I'm proud to say so. I loved seeing American pride throughout my city.

Yesterday, my day started with posting my "God Bless America" message and blog. I wanted my words to emphasize gratitude AND praying for our nation -- taking our cues from our Founding Fathers who prayed, often spoke of God and our need for His favor.

So that I'm not only a speaker of my words, but also a doer of my words, I made sure to attend a morning church service. It was complete with patriotic songs, (i.e., "My Country 'Tis of Thee", "The Battle Hymn of the Republic") and a beautiful message about our Founding Fathers' intent and first priority -- that we have freedom of religion. The right to freedom of religion is so central to American democracy that it was the first priority in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Largely because of the First Amendment's prohibition against government regulation or endorsement of religion, diverse faiths have flourished and thrived in America since the founding of the republic. On street corners, throughout our great land, you'll find synagogues and churches of every denomination. No matter where we go, we'll find a place to worship God. I love that. Oh, I know there are many who are patriotic, but don't hold to the need to add God to the equation. But, since this is my post and my blog, I get to exercise my "Freedom of Speech" (also in the First Amendment), to share that:
I believe in God the Father
I believe in Jesus Christ
I believe in His Virgin birth
I believe in the Holy Spirit
And He's given me new life
I believe in the crucifixion
I believe that He conquered death
I believe in the resurrection
And He's coming back again, I believe.

And, because I BELIEVE, I have faith and hope for today and tomorrow that our God cares more about our nation than we do, This is the ONLY nation in history that was formed by people who loved God, for the purpose of being free to worship Him, and I BELIEVE, He will NEVER forget it! Let's not forget HIM in the process!

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord!" Psalm 33:12