The success of any nation is no greater than the patriotic commitment of its citizens. The accumulated power of people for law and order creates a civilized mentality. When majority opinion rules out divisive and subversive elements, our country can function as a united people. "One nation under God" gives our nation a rallying point. Not that we all have the same concept of God, but together we recognize a power bigger than our own legislative bodies. Our search for God in relation to government enables us to dream for whatever divine reasons we have to exist as a nation.

Although, correctly we must separate church and state, we must not separate religion and government. Perhaps we cannot separate the two. We bring to the processes of government of the people, by the people and for the people all the influences of our faith. Belief in a supreme being, however we express it, gives us a strong appreciation for that which is above and beyond our frail attempts to govern ourselves. If we can understand and accept the greater government of the universe then we can implement its principles into the lesser government of humankind. Without some grasp of God we lose the inspiration for the political process.

From the Christian perspective we are encouraged to pray for our leaders and strive to be law-abiding citizens. Jesus taught us to render to our government the things which government requires and to render to God the things which God requires. God and government are not the same, but they require a similar commitment. If we are obedient servants of God we will be loyal citizens. We will stand for the things which make our nation strong.

Religion in America is like a patchwork quilt. Each piece must be sewn together to make a proper covering. Without betraying our own convictions we must hold hands with people of other persuasions if we are ever to be "one nation under God." It seems that the nations of the world who are most cruel and unjust are those who seek to impose a radical belief system upon their citizens. Religion has a terrible capacity to become intolerant and abusive. When it has the power of government to force its rigidity, people become puppets of the state. Conformity is the goal of such countries while freedom of thought is severely punished.

Perhaps our most patriotic prayer in America is one of thanks. We express gratitude for our land of the free and home of the brave. Of course we pledge our allegiance to the flag and stand for our national anthem. In a profound sense, however, we also pledge our allegiance to God and sing "Standing on the promises of God our Savior."