How do we teach littles the difference between Patriotism and Nationalism?
And why is important to do so??
Patriotism:
Love or devotion of one’s country
Nationalism:
A core identity with the belief of superiority
Patriotism is a love for country not completely unlike a parent’s love of their child. It shows pride in accomplishments and good behaviors while recognizing imperfections and need for growth and change.
Nationalism is blind loyalty. Their nation is who they are. And they consider their nation the only one of value.
We must teach our children that their value is found in Christ, not in their country of origin. Nationalism excludes the truth that God loves all people. It makes an idol out of a nation.
Pride in country while ignoring its flaws is dangerous. An identity outside of Jesus is harmful. Kids need to understand that celebrating your country and your heritage is wonderful, but it doesn’t take the place of our identity in Christ.
Celebrate our country this season. Put on your red, white, and blue and wave your flag high. But remember that God loves everyone from every nation of every ethnicity of every background of every gender, age, height, weight, skin color, physical and mental ability and that is worth celebrating every day!
The poor will eat and be satisfied; those who seek the Lord will praise him—
may your hearts live forever!
All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the Lord,
and all the families of the nations will bow down before him,
for dominion belongs to the Lord and he rules over the nations. Psalm 22:26-28
Thank you for your ministry, your dedication, your spirit of service. Praying you have a fantastic holiday!
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