Last Tuesday we celebrated our independence and the birth of our nation. As I think about what truly makes American great, I want to share these words from French writer, historian and political scientist, Alexis de Tocqueville after visiting America in 1831:
“I sought for the greatness of the United States in her commodious harbors, her ample rivers, her fertile fields, and boundless forests–and it was not there. I sought for it in her rich mines, her vast world commerce, her public school system, and in her institutions of higher learning–and it was not there. I looked for it in her democratic Congress and her matchless Constitution–and it was not there. Not until I went into the churches of America and heard her pulpits flame with righteousness did I understand the secret of her genius and power. America is great because America is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great!”
So how will we proclaim God’s righteous goodness today? Perhaps it starts not in some great deed but in the smallest acts of kindness like:
“And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.””
Matthew 10:42 NIV
(And by the way, Jesus, what’s up with this rewards program?)
Come and see,
Pastor Rob
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