Can you define who you are without comparing yourself to others? Can you say “I am good” – even “great”- without saying “I am better than”?
When we can define who we are from our internal self-awareness, then we can take our place in a healthy way in the world. We move from competition to co-operative effort. Our goals change from domination to grace.
Nationalism carries with it a sense of superiority and privilege. It wants to be served rather than to be in service.
Patriotism is the feeling of connectedness to a place and community. It includes a healthy self-awareness and understands the need for interdependence among all peoples.
As Christians in America we have a place to be and a role to play. The world needs each person and each nation to take our place in appropriate and healthy ways.