This weekend as a nation we observe Flag Day and then three weeks later we will celebrate July 4th!

I’m so grateful that my parents raised me to be patriotic … I love my country! My heart swells with pride when I see the American flag waving from the front porches of homes … flying atop buildings in the cities … and being carried by military personnel in the small town parades; and I get a lump in my throat when I hear a stirring rendition of the National Anthem.

There is another patriotic song that has literally touched millions of lives for almost 100 years – – “GOD BLESS AMERICA.”

In 1918 Irving Berlin wrote this song and then in 1938 he slightly rewrote it to reflect the tone of the country as war threatened Europe. “God Bless America” was heard from shore to shore in churches, town squares, and social gatherings. The American people, fearing the coming war, embraced the song as a unified prayer for peace and protection.

The lyrics captured the heart of our nation as with one voice the song was prayerfully sung…

“God bless America, land that I love.

Stand beside her and guide her

Through the night with the Light from above.

From the mountains, to the prairies,

To the oceans white with foam,

God bless America, my home sweet home!”

Now, in 2015, we continue to deal with war … terrorist attacks … Americans being beheaded by ISIS … and yet it is tragic that many segments of our society have lost touch with this song of faith.

So, as we celebrate Flag Day and July 4th … I challenge you to re-discover this classic song and lift it to God in prayer. Speak the words slowly and allow them to touch your heart.

Let’s join together in asking the King of all nations to continue to bless America!

God – – bless America.

And, America – – bless God!!