Waving the Flag of Jesus
Article written for the missoulian.com
Imagine a Missoula Fourth of July celebration in Caras Park with American flags waving high in the warmth of the summer. Some cheer with pride and reverence for their country, while others feel pain, alienation, or even disgust at the sight of the flag. For some, the flag symbolizes hope; for others, it represents loss.
A flag is not just fabric at the end of a pole. It is a symbol of identity and allegiance. It shows who we belong to and where our hope lies. People gather under flags for unity, but these earthly symbols can only go so far. They may inspire you, but they cannot save you. Only one banner leads to everlasting life.
The truth is, we all place our trust in something — people, politics, relationships, health, wealth, or even our own strength. Yet every earthly thing we trust in will eventually fail us, bringing disappointment, grief, or sorrow.
But there is a better flag to wave! A banner that brings hope for life, true peace to your heart, strength to your soul, and eternal joy. That flag is the banner of Jesus Christ. It is the good news for all who are hopelessly lost, walking in darkness.
The Bible tells us: “God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” Romans 5:8 ESV. Jesus, who is God, lived the perfect life we could never live. He died on the cross to take the punishment for our sins. He rose from death to give us life proving that death is not the end. It is the guarantee that all who trust in Him will rise again and live forever in His kingdom.
His flag is forgiveness. His standard is hope. His banner is love. His colors are mercy, peace and salvation. Jesus calls all to believe in Him and what He has done offering us His grace, not as something to earn, but something we receive.
You may ask: how do I receive it?
By faith—believing in Jesus Christ alone for salvation and trusting in His finished work. When you put your trust in Him, He forgives you, saves you, makes you a new creation, and gives you eternal life. He walks with you through every trial and renews your mind with truth. He fills your heart with eternal joy that cannot be taken away.
If you are tired, searching, or wondering if there is more to life than what this world offers, look to Jesus. His banner welcomes the brokenhearted, the burdened, and the lost. He offers rest for your soul and peace that lasts.
This summer, and every day after, don’t put your hope in earthly flags or fading promises. Wave the flag of Jesus Christ—the only banner that saves. Declare His forgiveness, hope, love, and mercy, so others may look to Him and find eternal life.
In Missoula, flags wave, but only Jesus’ flag saves.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Paul