Being a Good Citizen
Life on the Pasture
With the help of two of our high school students, the worn out, weathered, and faded American, Wisconsins, and LCMS flags outside of our building have been replaced with new ones. In the case of the LCMS flag, it has temporarily been replaced with a Christian flag which, unfortunately, is a bit smaller than what it replaced.
As I was admiring the new flags, it didn't seem right to me that the Christian flag was the smallest of the three. First and foremost, we are citizens of the Kingdom of God before we are citizens of the United States and Wisconsin. As Paul puts it in Philippians 3, "Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables Him to bring everything under His control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like His glorious body." (Philippians 3:20-21, NIV)
But citizenship in the Kingdom of God brings with it the responsibility of being a good citizen here on earth. Paul writes in Romans 13: "Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor." (Romans 13:5-7, NIV) Those are challenging words, especially if we believe those in authority are not acting as they should. And because we live within a system of government which allows us to express our displeasure and vote for those we wish to be in authority, it sometimes becomes all the more challenging to give respect and honor.
Yet we are confronted with the words, "as a matter of conscience." Which brings us to a very important question: Who is guiding your conscience?
There will be a Day when one will no longer have to raise and lower flags of nations and states. The cross, which may seem insignificant to many now will continue to be lifted high, and all who are in the Kingdom shall rejoice as the King returns. As we pray almost every week during the worship service, "Help us to number our days aright, that when our Lord returns we will be found as good and faithful servants."
As a special addendum, please keep our police officers and sheriffs in your prayers as they continue to serve for the well-being of our communities in very trying circumstances. The following is adapted from a prayer in the Lutheran Service Book: Lord of all hosts, stretch forth Your almighty arm to strengthen and protect those who serve our communities. Support them and keep them from all evil, giving them courage and loyalty. Grant that in all things they may serve with integrity and with honor; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
– Pastor Schmidt