As an American patriot, I celebrate the Fourth of July with pride and gratitude. However, I distinguish this patriotism from Christian nationalism. My faith teaches me that Jesus transcends political affiliations and national boundaries. He is not the exclusive property of any party or country, but the Lord of all creation and all people.

Neither conservatives nor liberals, the “party” of right or the “party” of the left, can claim a monopoly on Christ’s teachings. In fact, Jesus himself came to be the “party” and embodies the ultimate “party” – one of universal love and redemption.

Christ’s mission wasn’t to establish an earthly political utopia. Rather, as Origen beautifully expressed, Jesus is ‘autobasilia’ – He himself is the kingdom. This concept invites us to seek the divine beyond temporal political structures. (For more on this, see Sweet & Viola, Jesus Manifesto: Restoring the Supremacy and Sovereignty of Jesus Christ, p. 104)

While I cherish my zip code (PNW), my Appalachian cultural heritage, and my nation – celebrating them with genuine passion – my identity as a follower of Jesus compels me to embrace an even broader love and loyalty. My ultimate allegiance lies with a love that knows no borders and a loyalty that extends to all of humanity.