Re: [Worship] Patriotic Events

[<MNaude@Taratec.com>]

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As a foreigner only recently (well, 8 years ago) having moved to the
USA, I must say that I concur with your concern.  It is very dangerous
to ascribe praise and worship that is due to God to a country, the
government, a flag, etc. - it amounts to a type of idolatry.  I have
noticed this sort of phenomenon to various degrees in various US
churches that we've visited.

That being said, I think there IS a place for recalling and remembering
veterans and forefathers, but mostly in thankfulness to God for having
instituted governments, for having protected members of the military on
the frontlines, and for thanking Him for jus laws, etc.  As such, this
can certainly be fodder for some good sermons, but only if it redirects
praise to God... which I can see many churches trying to do (i.e. trying
to redirect).

So, the solution ... If necessary, draw up a sermon for your pastor to
preach.  This IS a larger issue than that to be coped with by those in
charge of musical praise and worship, and smacks of a teaching issue.
If you face him with the "idolatry" concern, this may ring some alarm
bells and prompt further action.

Blessings,

Mark



-----Original Message-----
From: Kathryn Thuma
Sent: Monday, 30 May, 2005 23:03

] I need some input.  A segment of our congregation is really BIG 
] on celebrating every patriotic holiday during the worship 
] service.  I don't mind ending the service with a patriotic song 
] or including a short segment within the service, i.e., a reading 
] and/or some special music.  However, there is pressure on me to 
] make the praise and worship part of the service primarily 
] patriotic, PLUS have the readings, special music, etc.  I'm 
] uncomfortable with this.  I feel like God is being asked to share 
] His glory with the USA.
] 
] I love my country, but as a worship leader, I believe I'm called 
] to lead the congregation in worshiping God, not the United States 
] of America. I've expressed my viewpoint--with much more diplomacy 
] than I have here--but now there is a considerable amount of anger 
] directed at me.  Put bluntly, I'm in the doghouse.

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