(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!
