Jesus is Not American But He Knows All His Sheep

  When a church has turned from sola scriptura, the journey can go in any direction. This is where I find myself.

  I penned a letter, a plea for the church to open its eyes. It addressed my concerns for sound doctrine in the pulpit, biblically sound worship, and unity. This plea garnered very little response and as much as I desired for the church to turn around, I knew my feeble cry would be more about my obedience than a David versus Goliath victory. However, one response was quite interesting. 

  Apparently, my stealth ninja skills are amazing because even though I have been at this church for almost 6 years, some people do not know me from Adam (excuse the cliche). One older gentleman (who I was in a theology class with) asked a friend of mine if she knew this letter writer. He wanted to know my status as an American citizen. Was I an illegal immigrant? Was I anti-American? 

  Here is what I said that got him in such an uproar:
 "Is not the Creator worthy of being worshiped in Truth above country? Above holiday? Above everything?"

  It should be a concern when we use time that is supposed to be dedicated to worship of our mighty, holy, awesome God to glorify other things but all that he heard was, "America stinks." That was a huge leap especially when seen in context with the rest of the letter.

  Most certainly we are to give honor to whom honor is due but does that mean we do it in worship time? Is God not a jealous God?

  I am blessed beyond measure that God put me in America. Just one step outside of this country and it is clear that there is freedom and abundance here. My family members have served this country as well, some still suffering the wounds from it. No one can discount that. But, understand this, God is God and He is first above all. His hand is protecting all His sheep, American or not, and all His sheep are one in Christ. Submitting to that can only result in making me a better American, a better woman, a better wife, a better mother, a better anything (except sinner).

  How can one not glory in a Shepherd that loves His flock so dearly? He knows us by name when others even in our own city or church do not. He knows our every concern right down to the number of hairs on our head. He even knows the smallest, weakest, and least valuable in the world's eyes, listens to her every cry, and answers. He does not forsake us. That is above and beyond any wealth or freedom and all my soul knows to do is pour out praise to Him.