I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO...
"...these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, one Jesus (Country)...He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me (Family)...And hath put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be the head over all things to the church (Church)...in all things He might have the preeminence (any person or thing)."~ Acts 17:7; Matt. 10:37; Eph. 1:22; Col. 1:18
My first allegiance has been, is, and always will be (by God's grace) to the Lord Jesus Christ! Not to my country, family, church, or any other person or organization, but to Him and Him alone! All others must fall into their proper order behind Him. The early Christians suffered indescribable torments by both the secular and religious world because of their loyalty and devotion to this Man, Christ Jesus. He alone was LORD of their lives!
Some 63 years ago on my knees I pledged my undying allegiance to the Lord Jesus Christ. I have not suffered as others who did the same in years gone by, but there has been a price to pay, nevertheless. This world hates the Christ of God; but there is another they will and do accept. Our Lord tells us if they hated Him they will us also who follow His teaching and in His steps.
I quoted a saying of Dr. Bob Jones recently in a phone conversation with a dear friend, "You can know who your friends are if you both have the same enemies." Amazing, is it not, that "they hated Him without a cause." The very epitome of all goodness, righteousness, godliness, etc., they detested, and without cause. They couldn't give a reason. And so will they us, if we follow Him.
I texted some loved ones recently on a thought I had while meditating. I don't remember if I passed it along to you, my readers. "I want to love the Lord Jesus to the same degree that Satan hates Him! " And that my friend, is with unfathomable love!
by an Old Disciple