Independence Day in the United States is commemorated on July 4th. There were fireworks, barbeques, plus the wearing of red, white, and blue everywhere. Many buildings, both private, and public were adorned with “Old Glory” this year. Where did “Old Glory” originate and why is it important for us today as we strive to live our best life?

According to Katrena Wells the name Old Glory was first used for the flag of the United States on March 17, 1824. A then 21 year-old military captain received a flag as a gift from his mother and a group of women. When presented he called it “Old Glory”. The historic flag traveled with Captain Driver as a treasure around the world twice and was later altered to reflect more stars. Today the flag is as pictured above, and can be viewed in the Smithsonian Institute located in Washington, DC.

That piece of cloth likely represented home, family, peace and the freedom that Captain Driver desired to maintain throughout his career. The legacy established by the common feelings the flag symbolized still resonates with people today. The flag itself represents something much greater than the threads connected to each other known as Old Glory.

Older and Still Relevant

That word Glory was recorded even further back in history. It was used From Genesis 31:1 to Revelation 21:26 in the King James Version of the Bible. It was used in the Hebrew language and the Greek. My favorite writer, the Apostle Paul used it in his letters.

The Apostle Paul’s memorable, dynamic encounter with the glory of God came while he was on the road to Damascus. The glory was in the form of a light, which had blinded the then murderous Saul on his way to persecute more of God’s people. Ironically, when that light hit him he was clear that it was from God. Whereas before he had denied and acted out violently against the very LORD he would later defend to the death, his death. This account is recorded in Acts chapter 22.

The Apostle would defend the word and will of God and His son Jesus the Christ throughout his many letters. He went on to write 13 books in the New Testament. Many of the letters written by Paul, also known as the Pauline Epistles, were written from prison, where he had been incarcerated for spreading the gospel.

He chose to make a dramatic change in his life, and the lives of others, by being obedient to the will of God. By his own admission in the book of First Timothy he was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man.

However, God was merciful to him when he had a change of heart. For about 32 years after his conversion he spread the news of the gospel and gave God glory.

In Second Corinthians he wrote about how we can go from glory to glory as we are being converted to God’s image.

This glory, was recorded at least thousands of years before Captain Driver’s statement. We all have the ability to treasure it and share it with others. It is a symbol of something much greater than us. God’s glory is expressed as we follow His commands. As you keep His commands you raise a banner for others to see. You pass on an inheritance and you are able to make connections with others because of that banner.

Patriotic or Familial?

Are you patriotic about anything having to do with your country of origin? Do you display the colors, or banner of your alma mater, favorite sports team or other organization? Do you keep abreast of the latest trends in pop culture or know all of the juicy gossip? Are you able to discuss politics, finance and market trends with ease? Do you know all of the latest tech products?

How much do you discuss, read about and study the Bible? Do you represent the family of God? Can you be recognized as one of His children?

The choice is yours, you can either be more like Saul of Tarsus or the Apostle Paul. Whenever you see flags now I hope you will think about the old glory, the glory of God! Reverence and celebrate Him often; wave His banner. Celebrate the freedom you enjoy because of your liberation from the consequences of sin.

Old Glory!

Take Inventory and Take Action!

Love,
Deborah
“Lighting the path to loving your neighbor as yourself.”