This week we will celebrate the 4th of July!  That is our country's birthday.  This morning I have a flag.  The flag of the United States of America.  As you know, our flag is red, white, and blue.  Have you ever stopped to think what those colors mean?

Red:  Red stands for courage.  Many men and women have had the courage to stand up and fight for our country.  They have defended our country against our enemies and many have died in the service of our country.

White:  White stands for purity.  Purity means to do what is right.  We hope and pray that our country will always stand for what is right.

Blue:  Blue stands for justice.  When we pledge allegiance to the flag, we end with the words:  "With liberty and justice for all."  That means that in our country, everyone should be treated fairly and with respect.

The colors red, white, and blue remind me of our country, but those colors also remind me of Jesus.

Red reminds me of Jesus' blood that was shed when he died on the cross for my sin.  That is very important, because the Bible says, "Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness."  (Hebrews 9:22)

White reminds me that when I give my heart to Jesus, he washes me and I become as "white as snow." (Isaiah 1:18) The Bible says, "you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians 6:10)

Blue reminds me of God's faithfulness.  The Bible tells us that "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and make us clean."  (1 John 1:9) God is faithful to keep His promises.

Red, white, and blue.  Yes, I am reminded of our great country, but more importantly, I am reminded of our great Savior, Jesus.