Sunday, October 14, 2001
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Sunday, October 14, 2001 |
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Folding the flag: What it means By DR. KNOX HERNDON
I wish to thank two patriots who have served their country and the cause of freedom. One I know and love quite well. His name is Dave Smith. The other I know only through an email. His name is Bob Kandler. God bless you both for your service to our country and the cause of freedom. Bob sent this to Dave and Dave sent it to me. I share it with you now. Please share it with those you love, especially your children. In light of recent events, this nation will soon bring closure to the thousands who have perished during this most difficult time and in the traditional ceremony of honoring these heroes, I would like to offer an historical point of view of this ceremony. The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life. The second fold is a symbol of our belief in the ETERNAL LIFE. The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veteran departing our ranks who gave a portion of life for the defense of our country to attain a peace throughout the world. The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance. The fifth fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong." The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we "pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all." The seventh fold is a tribute to our armed forces, for it is through the armed forces that we protect our country and our flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our republic. The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor mothers, for whom it flies on Mother's Day. The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, love, loyalty, and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great have been molded. The tenth fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born. The eleventh fold, in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen, represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The twelfth fold, in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost. When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our national motto, "In God We Trust." After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington and the sailors and Marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the armed forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today. The next time you see a flag ceremony honoring someone that has served our country, either in the Armed Forces or in out civilian services such as the Police Department or the Fire Department, keep in mind all the important reasons behind each and every movement. They have paid the ultimate sacrifice for all of us by honoring our flag and our country. If by chance you pass a veterans cemetery, pause for a moment and thank God for their sacrifice. All they ask is that we remember, nothing more. Dr. Knox Herndon is the pastor of His House Community Church (SBC). Rev. Greg Mausz is the senior associate pastor. Dr. Lydia Herndon is the Sunday School superintendent, Bible study coordinator and teacher. The church is just south of Senoia on Ga. Highway 85, a mile past Ga. Highway 16 and just below the fire station. Visitors are welcome. Church office and prayer line number is 770-719-2365.E-mail address is KHERN2365@aol.com.
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