War sermons
Along with fireworks and barbecue, the fourth of July has traditionally been an occasion for speeches that blend thanksgiving for military sacrifices with some appeal to divine favor for America. Last year President Obama continued this tradition with his speech from the White House. In it, he welcomed representatives from all branches of the military and celebrated with the United States Marine Band and country music star Brad Paisley.
After saluting individuals for their military service in Afghanistan, Obama reflected on “this generation of heroes—this 9/11 Generation that has earned its place in history alongside the greatest generations.” Military personnel, President Obama said, “represent what is best in America.” They serve “under our proud flag,” and they sacrifice all “in defense of those God-given rights that were first put to paper 236 years ago: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” President Obama closed with “God bless you. God bless your families. And God bless these United States of America.”
Such statements stir patriotic convictions partially because of their association of military sacrifices with God’s blessing. In most cases, American patriotism includes religious overtones. The reasons have a lot to do with the American Revolution. “A true patriot must be a religious man,” said Abigail Adams. Most colonists agreed—even founders such as George Washington, who were more theologically liberal than the average evangelical.
