Dependence Day

Yesterday we got to experience the 4th of July in a different country, the first time we've ever done this. Not only was it a different country, however, it was in fact the very country from which we declared our independence those 236 years ago. I personally wanted to run up and down the streets yelling, "Whooo!! America!!" (*in Patriotic/Redneck voice*), but Rebecca wasn't too keen (note: use of British word) on me doing that.

Nevertheless, we had an enjoyable Independence Day experience, complete with an American flag at lunch, as well as ice in our drinks (the ice itself a tribute to the American way). There was one thing about our day which was particularly different...and refreshing. You see, in churches across America, especially those in the South, people were singing songs about, and frankly giving glory to, the USA. For the past few years, I have watched and recoiled at people, who normally seem to care very little about singing with fervor, as they sing with unparalleled passion. It's actually quite sad to see people who are more passionate about singing songs about America than they are about singing to a God whose kingdom is eternal.

I can't tell you how much I enjoyed coming into church on Sunday morning and finding that the first song we were singing had these words:

Crown Him with many crowns, the Lamb upon His throne
Hark! how the heavenly anthem drowns all music but its own
Awake, my soul, and sing of Him who died for thee
And hail Him as thy matchless King through all eternity!

Jesus' kingdom truly is eternal. It will be here long after the grand ol' US of A is gone, and it's nice to be reminded of that every now and again.