June fourteenth is Flag Day here in the United States. We fly this colorful banner to show our love and devotion to our country. It flies over many homes and businesses every day of the year, but on Flag Day others join in honoring this national symbol. It is a symbol of freedom and of triumph over tyranny and oppression. It is typically carried into battle, draped over the coffins of our fallen heroes, and used to decorate their graves to show our appreciation for their sacrifice in our fight for freedom. Whenever the National Anthem is played, our eyes automatically shift to that fluttering banner and our hearts swell with pride. It reminds us of what our country stands for.
May it also remind us of another special symbol and what it stands for — the cross of Jesus Christ – a symbol of His sacrifice when He died on the cross to save us from our sins. A symbol of freedom from, and triumph over, sin and death for those who accept Him as Savior and Lord. A reminder that someday He will return for us and take us to live with Him forever. Oh, what a glorious day that will be! “He brought me to the banqueting house, And his banner over me was love.” Song of Solomon 2:4, NKJV
Heavenly Father, just as our flag is known and loved all over this country, may we be faithful in sharing the banner of love offered to everyone by Jesus through His death on the cross, so that He, too, may be known and loved all over this world. Amen.
Donna J. Howard