Ridgell's Originals

My Alma mater, Abilene Christian University, had opening day Chapel yesterday. It was well attended. It was broadcast on the web so lots of alumni and friends could watch. And it was different than in the past few years. Evidently, the unfurling of the giant American flag and the singing of the Battle Hymn of the Republic were omitted this year. It has been interesting to see the various reactions to this. Some decry the "lack and/or loss" of patriotism. Others applaud the decision to separate Christianity from nationalism.

So I have a few random thoughts.

I do not see ACU as the church. There were many non Christians in attendance as students and/or guests. For those that think patriotism and nationalism have no place in a Christian assembly -- and I am one of those -- I still do not see how ACU chapel is to be equated with the assembled church. If it is, I would submit that there are much greater issues to address than this one.

If the issue is about offending some who are not citizens here... what do they expect to happen at an assembly of an American university? And if the concern is over offending people, I would think many more people would be offended by the worship than by patriotism. But what a non believer to expect to happen at a University with Christian in its name?

If the issue is about presenting Jesus in an evangelistic context to non-believers, then there certainly is no place for any national pride or honor. The kingdom of Jesus does not have political borders or allegiance.

If the concern is about Christian worship, then the Battle Hymn of the Republic (connected to America) is weak theology and wrong. The army of the Lord is certainly not to be confused with the United States military.

And of course, if offending people is the concern, this cannot be resolved. Christians who pledge allegiance only to the kingdom of God will be offended by patriotic displays. Christians who are very patriotic will be offended by the omission of activities honoring America.

Next thing you know, there will discussion about women leading worship, or instrumental music, or... oh, never mind.

I think ACU is a place where Christians find ways to serve God. It is a place that may have much to do with kingdom business. But it not a kingdom business. It is not ordained of God. It is not the people of God. It is an educational institution in the United States that tries to adhere to Christian principles. And the leaders of ACU will decide what they believe to be appropriate within those guidelines.

Sometimes they have thought patriotism is appropriate. Yesterday they did not. As for me, if the intent was to more accurately reflect kingdom principles... then I think they got it right. But some will disagree. That's OK. We do not have to agree on everything. I don't think this is a salvation issue... or even a fellowship test. But then again, I didn't even care enough to attend, or even watch it.

Just my thoughts.