SOMETHING ELSE

Just when I was sure I had this article all figured out, I decided to focus on “something else”. Let’s just say this past month was filled with a whole lot of “always somethings”. Along every path, there was always something lying in wait. I was going to eloquently detail the latest onslaught in this month’s post, but would always hit a snag when pursuing this angle. This specific always something snapped me out of the funk as I was gently reminded, by you know who, that these somethings are God’s somethings first, and I can take comfort knowing He’s got this if I’m willing to trust in and have faith in His long game. As our pastor noted on Sunday, “be in dependence of the Lord, not independent.”

Now, on to something else as we celebrate our 250th Independence Day, July 4th, 2026. This was when the thirteen colonies were no longer subject and subordinate to the monarch of Britain, King George III. We were now united, free, and independent states. All of which would not be possible without God’s amazing grace and guidance. But, as back then and especially now, we have much work to do and progress to be made.

That leads me to the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance. A loyalty and commitment to the flag for the republic and one nation for which it stands. This oath spoken to the U.S. flag was first written in 1885 and was revised four more times until we eventually reached a fifth and current version in 1954, where “under God” was finally added. I remember starting every day in elementary school with the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance. “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under god, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” And to be quite honest, I did not remember the entire pledge today. But the one part I never forget is “one nation under God.”

As I work to a finish on this Wednesday morning following a late Tuesday push, I’ve been enjoying the FIFA World Cup and Breakfast at Wimbledon. About 75% of the 2026 World Cup matches are being played in the US, with Mexico and Canada sharing the remainder. Along with great play on the pitch, fans of the 48 teams have arrived and are loving our United States of America along with the hospitality that comes with it. We are, and always will be, “one nation under God,” who is the greatest host of all. Paul notes in Romans 12:12, NKJV, “rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer…” Paul is encouraging believers to let love be the primary motivation in everything we do.

On Saturday, July 4th, 2026, we will celebrate our 250th birthday. I will also celebrate a one-year consecutive streak in my verse of the day on the Bible app; God willing, of course. Another funny guy moment from our amazing God. This is a first for me as I’ve missed streak-breaking days, for seemingly no reason at all, in years past. It’s not about the streak. It’s about continually turning towards God, not because I got to, but because I am already His. And I have no doubt that all our guests from abroad can feel His loving kindness and that they, too, are already His.

In closing, I realize we all have our own flaws, faults, and issues as Americans. But let’s continue to grow closer to Him and each other, and let love be the primary motivation for all we do as the United States of America. One nation under God!

Until next time,

Much love and be blessable,

Larry