“Patriotism” is loyalty and love for one’s nation. The word is derived from Latin pater, meaning “father.” Patriotism is devotion to one’s fatherland.
There are several facets to patriotism. One is simply geography. To grow up on the open prairies, or green farmlands, or busy metro streets and shops—each with its own charm—provides a unique concept of “fatherland.” When someone finds similar surroundings later in life, the heart says, “This feels like home.” It is a blessing to feel comfortable in one’s surroundings; it brings a certain peace. When the people of Judah were captive in Babylon, they longed to return home. “By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept when we remembered Zion.” (Psalm 137:1)
Closely intertwined with geography is “way of life”—the way in which family and neighbors live and earn their daily bread, under the hand of God. “Way of life” includes the nature and characteristics of the people, and the language spoken (the “mother tongue”). “This is how my fathers lived and conducted themselves; so it is with me.” Such foundation in life is a great blessing and is a support system when problems arise—unless, of course, the example given was ungodly. Thus, in American history, Norwegians settled with Norwegians, Germans with Germans, and so forth. Even immigrants who came as infants later spoke fondly of the “old country.” It’s a patriotism to the old ways.
Finally, the most significant way of life involves faith in the Lord of forgiveness and eternal salvation—Jesus! “Our fathers trusted in You; they trusted and You delivered them.” (Psalm 22:4)
Patriotism naturally involves the government. Government is one means through which God provides blessings! In the United States we receive God’s blessings through several levels of government. The military protects and defends our land and our way of life, police provide law and order, “protecting you from me and me from you.” Fire protection is an invaluable service. Road construction and road maintenance is a blessing. Programs to serve the special needs of our people are helpful. Our government grants many freedoms. With patriotic hearts, on the Fourth of July we celebrate these blessings and thank the Lord.
Patriotism involves loyalty to a particular form of government. Is it a king or queen? Is it a democracy or republic? It is the Lord who grants and allows governments for each nation. “The powers that be are ordained of God.” (Romans 13:1) We enjoy our blessed Constitutional Republic form of government. The Old Testament people were blessed with the monarchy under King Saul and following. However, government is always subject to abuse and corruption. Satan connives to turn governments awry.
Patriotism involves honoring leaders. Whether the leaders always suit, the Lord expects us to honor His agents. “Fear God. Honor the king.” (1 Peter 2:17) If government or leaders direct us to disobey God, then “We ought to obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29) The three men in Babylon, refusing to worship the king’s idol, were willing to face the fiery furnace (Daniel 3). They are a prime example. God spared them.
Patriotism is for our own good. The Lord says, “Seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to the Lord for it; for in its peace you will have peace.” (Jeremiah 29:7)
There is yet a higher patriotism—patriotism to our eternal Fatherland above. Through Jesus, Who was punished for us and has risen for us, we have forgiveness, life from the grave, and eternity in heaven. These blessings supersede all. Jesus promised, “I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” (John 14:3) The writer to the Hebrews says, “We desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.” (Hebrews 11:16)
The hymnwriter puts it well, “Heaven is my fatherland, heaven is my home!” (TLH 660:4)
Patriotism involves honoring leaders. Whether the leaders always suit, the Lord expects us to honor His agents. “Fear God. Honor the king.” (1 Peter 2:17)
is pastor of Saint Luke’s Lutheran Church in Lemmon, South Dakota.