If you have ever attended a professional sporting event, before each game begins the MC or Voice of the radio play by play makes an announcement. The words usually go something like this, “will you now rise, take off your caps and direct your attention to the flag as we honor America with the singing of our National Anthem.” This tradition would have likely continued. Yet, following the stance of Colin Kaepernick during 2 NFL preseason games by sitting down, then taking a knee, the National Anthem may become a thing of the past just like saying the Pledge of Allegiance in public schools.
Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, Psalm 1:1.
On any given Sunday, you will find most players standing, a few on one knee and perhaps a rebel sitting on the team’s bench. Yet, what does it really mean to stand, kneel or sit. Whenever someone stands it represents a few things. Standing symbolizes a willing participant, taking a stance or coming together for a common cause. To take a knee suggests someone is resting, to gather their strength before moving on. Meanwhile, kneeling is more of an act of worship, to bow down in humility to honor God. Finally, sitting has multiple meanings. Individuals can participant in sit ins, join others in protest or in the biblical context, sitting down refers to completing what you set out to do.
But whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night, Psalm 1:2.
Going forward, I hope that singing the National Anthem doesn’t turn into the ACLU’s attack on the pledge of allegiance. Nonetheless, how people live, the stances you take and the character displayed will be a greater factor than celebrities on television. In this day and age, people are starving for leaders, someone you can believe in and follow. In the absence of leadership, the Colin Kaepernick’s of this world will try to set new trends to follow. In the end, its up to you, to either stand, kneel or sit as America’s freedom’s are under siege by those who detest the Christian heritage of this country. What will you do?
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 