(I have written this back in July 4, 2014 and I feel that this is still timely in what's going on in our country. I trust the Lord wants me to re post)...
The bright, already hot rays of the sun greeted my barely-opened eyes. I hugged my husband briefly, still asleep, and whispered for him to go back to sleep. As I started to wake up more to reality of facing another day to more depressing news. Day. By. Day.
My heart felt sad as I realized how the news about illegal immigration (and now, countless rioting of what was supposed to be "peaceful protests") had been constantly overpowering the other “what-should-be” news like celebrating the freedom we enjoy this very day. Like remembering those countless lives who willingly sacrificed, not only them serving in the military, but also the families behind them, to preserve the freedom this nation enjoyed.
My mind was clouded by then trying to reflect on my own journey. Of coming to America with a big dream of enjoying the freedom it had and knowing that it was a land full of opportunities to those of us who were not born here. A land truly blessed by God and as far as I knew, was founded on Christian principles.
“Good morning,” a soft greeting cut through my busy mind as my husband’s weary and rough hands tried to envelope me as I slowly got up, not forgetting for a minute where my mind was going. My heart becoming more sad. As I touched his hands, rough now from years of experiences. Of being in Iraq war. And other destinations wherever the military assigned him. And as we welcomed our child, he got out of the military to be more with his family and to fulfill a higher dream. If I had to write about each of our journeys, this space would not be enough. I just knew. We both came here, following the due process or law that this great nation had established. It was not an easy trek. But what great tastes of victory to be handed that “citizenship” that many aspired for.
And what even more joy to be able to profess your faith without risking your life in this place!
This morning, as I remember the white-haired veterans and those who might have lost a limb or more and the ones who died. All of those serving in the military, near and far. The families that also had to sacrifice. Facing each day, not knowing if their loved ones would be able to return. Those foreigners, like my husband and I, who came here the long way, but through the legal process. The Christians who still believe in God, the Holy Spirit and Jesus being One. I’m tired of hearing the laws. I’m tired of hearing God’s Word being thrown to those who try to oppose and show their courage to stand up for what was right. I’m tired of all the irresponsible actions the government and people must and must not be doing.
For as an American and as a Christian, I know we all have that duty to obey God first. I very well know His commandment to love Him first, then love others. But my question is…
“Are we loving others in the right way?”
We can all argue. But this place is becoming more tolerant of sins while yelling God’s commandment to love on my face.
As Christians, you and I know this is not our home. But as we are still living down here, we have responsibilities to obey God first and the government. Its laws. For God was the One Who put it there.
This morning, I would probably still turn on my t.v. though I already know what news to expect. But I want to shout “Hurray!” for those who are willing to stand up for what is RIGHT. And no! I don’t want to forget to say “Thank You” to those veterans who never get the treatments and respect they all deserve. “Thank You” to all of your families who sacrificed like you did. “Thank You” to all the military and law enforcement who give their all to preserve the freedom we enjoy and to protect this land against oppressors.
Most of all, “Thank You, God!” “Thank You, Lord”.
God Bless America!
Thank you sister Sandi. But glory be to God. God bless you.
ReplyDeleteAs I read your well thought out words about America and all the challenges you faced to enter legally, I feel sad, too, that so much hypocrisy extends to citizens. Our government is corrupt and it is so unfortunate because America is the land of freedom. The enemy has left a huge footprint over the years but our God is greater. I see the Lord leading so many of us to pray and not give up hope that it can change, maybe not all and not fast but if God hasn't given up on this place, I shouldn't either. Thank you for re-posting this beautiful piece with words from the heart that move me and encourage me. Praying tonight, sister, that all is well by you and that your family is doing well in all ways. Sending much love to you, as always!
ReplyDeleteIf I say things that are not heard from our media, they will all sound like "theories" sister Mary. But that's how our spiritual enemies do their work. Subtly. Even churches, they have penetrated. The corruption is so deep that it's sad that the Bible is right that our hearts get so calloused when we sin that men get so blind to see their evil doings.But I also know how faithful our Lord is and everything that is happening has significance in His timetable. It's also sad that our schools are changing histories so a lot of our younger generations don't know any but be brainwashed into believing that they can be independent from their families or parents and whatever cause being taught is the right thing to do.
DeleteOur will is always to remain joyful, giving thanks and be consistent in prayers. So I will always be agreeing with you (in Spirit) in your prayers. I believe in the transformative power of prayers because I know God is always watching and whether He answers or not, He knows what's best. I pray that I will always see through His eyes not through my own. By God's grace, even through this pandemic, my family and I are doing well sister Mary (Thank you for your prayers always). Time to time, I have the urge to pray for our friends and families, then my blogging friends and you're on top of my list :) I checked my blog (because sometimes, I like to read them to remind me of what God is telling me) and there you were, left some footprints here. God bless and strengthen you and thank you for always encouraging me throughout these many, many years we have been blogging. But most of all, thank you for the much needed prayers that help me to always be strong. Love to you.
As a believer in Christ I feel I can only be responsible for my own actions, and in the Lord we are taught daily by the Holy Spirit through the Word given to us. I see some terrible things going on all around the world but know that God is in charge no matter what happens. Here in the UK there is a group of people that go around restoring injured people's, including veterans', houses and it is beautiful to see it on the television sometimes. We have lived in many places in the UK and Australia, but what always comes to my mind is 'First seek the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all else will be added' The MOST IMPORTANT thing that each of us as a believer in Christ does is to do whatever we are given to do by the Lord. I have always said, and still do, that God is the master chess player, we are the pieces He uses to do whatever He calls us to do to spread the Word. God bless you for sharing and continue to do it as the Lord leads you.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with everything you said sister Brenda. What a difference it makes when others help veterans like what you mentioned. Not only veterans, but how nice it would be if many people help each other to lighten the load of those who are carrying heavy burdens. And that's how we must act as His children. TO be His instruments but do things for His glory. I like to remind myself that we are letters being read by others who don't know the Lord well (like what Paul said). Thank you for your encouragement. God bless you and keep you strong.
ReplyDeleteOUr freedom is such a precious thing and unless one has lived where there is no freedom we often take it for granted. I keep telling my grandchildren, listen to these older people when it comes to enjoying freedom. I don't get too upset over the election stuff because I truly believe God set up the Kings and takes them down when to fit His will.
ReplyDeleteThe Bible said "Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom..." Sad indeed when people here take it for granted. I don't watch the mainstream media. The news nowadays are biased or opinionated. Most of the time, the truths are not put out. I just pray and trust the Lord is in control anyway no matter what. But one thing I know, God is not mocked.
DeleteWell put, Rose, and I'm so happy to see you back.
ReplyDeleteNot all the time sister Sandra like I used to. But glory be to God. Thank you for visiting. God bless.
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