Patriotism is the exact opposite of nationalism: Nationalism is a betrayal of patriotism. In saying 'our interests first, whatever happens to the others,' you erase the most precious thing a nation can have, that which makes it live, that which causes it to be great and that which is most important: its moral values... Thank you, Mr. Macron. Words such as these are consistent with an overriding world view that I have embraced since my 20’s. I wrote an ESSAY on the topic of nationalism nearly 30 years ago from my vantage point as an expatriate and Christian pastor/missionary. It feels equally apropos today. The escalation of hate speech emanating from white supremacists and anti-Semites is one more affirmation that two world wars did not obliterate the roots of war. True Christianity is bigger than nationhood. No kingdom will outlast God’s kingdom. God’s kingdom work embraces the whole of humanity. Ours is a ministry of reconciliation through the shed blood of our Savior. He gave his life for the world (Jn 3:16… κόσμος kosmos). So should we. Let's not get caught up in things that are less. "And in the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that shall never be destroyed, nor shall the kingdom be left to another people. It shall break in pieces all these kingdoms and bring them to an end, and it shall stand forever," (Daniel 2:44)
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Yes...! As of July 5, 2020, my book is now available on Amazon.com. It's a new book about an old problem: the cross and the crown… the Gospel and politics… do they mix? Should they mix? If my words generate some reflection and healthy conversation—as in more light and less heat—I will be satisfied. For feedback or questions, feel free to use the email link below. Greg SmithGreg grew up in Menomonee Falls, WI. His ministry began in 1976: 5 years in Central America, 37 in Mexico. Church planting and discipleship have been his passion. CAROL'S BLOG
LivingTheJoy.net "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field." -Matthew 13:44 GREG'S other BLOG
BILINGUAL DEVOTIONAL
Concise devotions in Spanish and English, along with some lengthier essays… Designed for personal spiritual growth and to help anyone studying English or Spanish as a second language to improve their skills… Rev 14:6 Categories
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