I have one memory that I recall every June 14. It’s a memory of still being in school on June 14. For some reason, I don’t have a lot of vivid memories of elementary school, but I do remember this day. It was early elementary and I remember sitting and coloring flags. I can remember what the page looked like, I can recall my place in the classroom, and I still see the sun beaming in the windows – calling me to come out and play! I am pretty sure that the teacher was just trying to find work for us to do at that point. It wasn’t until later in my life after years of school ending around Memorial Day that I realized how odd it was for my school district to still be in school on Flag Day. I am pretty sure it was one of those winters where snow was prevalent and school was not.
So today, we celebrate Old Glory – the symbol of what is good about America. The one thing that all Americans look to for hope and the one thing that represents all that America stands for. What American isn’t proud when he sees that banner lifted high on the Olympic Track, or displayed on the shoulder of a soldier. And have you noticed that after every destructive weather event a picture appears with the American flag raised on top of the rubble, a symbol of hope and the ability to overcome! It’s just a simple piece of fabric, but it is a powerful symbol. One which appears to have magical powers that can unite people with a single wave. And so it is for us who live in America under that banner.
In the same way, we have a spiritual banner that is the rallying point of our soul. Take a moment on Flag Day to remember this banner as well as the Stars and Stripes.
10 In that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples; the nations will rally to him, and his resting place will be glorious. Isaiah 11:10 (NIV)
The Root of Jesse is a reference to The Christ, who to his followers becomes a banner, a powerful rallying point, and oh so every glorious.
Let Old Glory Fly high today, but may the Root of Jesse fly even higher – over all the nations!