Being a Christian and a patriot can often feel like a delicate balancing act, especially when considering the social justice issues that the United States grapples with daily. For me, this balance is not just a theoretical exercise but a deeply personal journey, shaped by my faith, my love for my country, and the profound loss of my father, a Vietnam veteran, on the Fourth of July over a decade ago.

The Essence of Patriotism and Christian Faith

Patriotism, for me, is about love for my country and a commitment to its ideals of freedom, justice, and equality. It means appreciating the opportunities and freedoms afforded to us and striving to make our nation a better place for all its citizens. However, being a Christian adds another layer to this love—one that is rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, emphasizing love, compassion, and justice.

My faith calls me to recognize and respond to the injustices present in our society. Whether it’s racial inequality, economic disparity, or any form of oppression, I believe that my Christian duty is to advocate for the marginalized and to work towards a more just and equitable society. This perspective sometimes puts me at odds with the actions and policies of my country, yet it doesn’t diminish my patriotism. Instead, it deepens my commitment to ensuring that our nation lives up to its highest ideals.

Distinguishing Patriotism from Christian Nationalism

It is crucial to distinguish between patriotism and Christian nationalism. Patriotism is about loving and improving one’s country, whereas Christian nationalism conflates national identity with a specific religious identity, often to the exclusion and detriment of others. Christian nationalism can lead to a dangerous sense of superiority and a belief that the United States is divinely chosen, which can justify injustices and discrimination.

As a Christian patriot, I reject the idea that my faith gives me a monopoly on national identity or that it entitles me to impose my religious beliefs on others. My faith guides my actions and principles, but it does not dictate that my country must conform to a specific religious doctrine. Instead, I believe in a pluralistic society where people of all faiths and beliefs can coexist and contribute to the common good.

Personal Reflections: The Pain of Patriotic Holidays

Patriotic holidays like Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and the Fourth of July are particularly challenging for me. These days, meant to honor the sacrifices of our service members and celebrate our nation’s independence, are deeply intertwined with personal loss and sorrow. My father, a Vietnam veteran, passed away on the Fourth of July over a decade ago, a day that was once filled with celebration now shrouded in sadness.

While I am proud of my father’s service and the principles he fought for, the trauma of losing him on such a symbolic day has made it impossible for me to partake in the usual festivities. Decorating or celebrating on these days feels like an emotional minefield, triggering memories and pain that overshadow any sense of national pride.

Instead, I choose to honor my father’s memory in quieter, more personal ways. I reflect on his life and his service, and I engage in acts of kindness and service that align with both my faith and my love for my country. These acts, though small, feel like a more fitting tribute to his legacy and a way to channel my grief into something positive.

Conclusion: A Call for Compassionate Patriotism

In navigating the complexities of being a Christian and a patriot, I strive to live out a form of patriotism that is compassionate, inclusive, and just. It is a patriotism that acknowledges the flaws and failures of our nation while working tirelessly to address them. It is a form of patriotism that respects the various religious traditions that make up our nation while also being faith-based.

For those who, like me, find patriotic holidays triggering due to personal loss, know that it is okay to grieve in your own way. Patriotism does not require us to ignore our pain or force ourselves into celebration. Instead, it invites us to find our own ways to honor our loved ones and our nation, holding space for both sorrow and hope as we work towards a better future.