I am Thankful for the United States of America

The USA is the greatest nation in the history of humanity. No other country has given so much for the good of others. I am aware it is a nation with a long list of sins as well, sins against slaves, sins against minorities, sins against native Americans, sins against other oppressed people. It has assassinated the elected leaders of other countries because they held political philosophies contrary to its own. It is guilty of supporting dictators who persecuted their own people. But the list of America’s sacrifices in the name of liberty and justice far exceeds the list of its sins. No nation has given more financial aid to others. No nation has sacrificed more of its sons and daughters in behalf of others. No nation has sent more missionaries, fed more hungry, and built more infrastructures for others to prosper.

I am an American by the grace of God. I rejoice in the benefits of my citizenship daily. I have been blessed to visit other countries and observe the beauty and dignity of their peoples and cultures. I am reminded that God is not a respecter of persons. He loves all equally. Being an American does not make me better than anyone else; it does make me a debtor. To whom much is given, much is required.

Ours’ is a great nation, but let us not forget two facts. First, we are great because God Almighty raised us up for His purposes. Our collective greatness is not innate to us but is rather a gift from Him. Our society is good only to the extent we reflect His goodness. Second, all of the good we have done can never erase all of the evil we have done. Righteousness is not measured on a scorecard as if everyone with a score above zero wins. Only the blood of Christ can cleanse us of our sins. Without repentance this nation and its citizens will be judged and found wanting.

I am thankful for the United States of America. We are blessed materially and educationally. We are free people, at least more free than any other countries. Let us pray. Let us seek God for our leaders. Let us be thankful. Let us repent.

Cleveland, Tennessee
January 31, 2010
JDJ