The Pledge of Allegiance of the United States is an oath of loyalty to the national and the republic of the United States, originally composed by Francis Bellamy  in 1892. The Pledge has been modified four times since then, with the most recent change adding the words "under God" in 1954. The Pledge is predominantly sworn by children in public schools in response to state laws requiring the Pledge to be offered. Congressional sessions open with the swearing of the Pledge, as do government meetings at local levels, many organizations' meetings, and sporting events.

The current version of the Pledge of Allegiance reads;

I 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.

According to the United States flag code, the Pledge "should be rendered by standing at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. When not in uniform, men should remove any non-religious headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should remain silent, face the flag, and render the military salute"

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This is a holiday for us to thank our military, past and present, for allowing us to be an independent country with many rights, freedoms, and responsibilities.

Last night we celebrated the 4th with local care center residents and by attending a concert given by the 34th Iowa Army Guard band in Eagle Grove. We have the opportunity to welcome a Clarion hometown boy back from Afghanistan this morning when his unit rolls through town. Tomorrow afternoon we are going to seize the opportunity to see and hear several World War II veterans speak at our local museum. On both Saturday and Sunday, we can spend some time with friends and family...watching parades, worshipping at our church, and eating together and celebrating, because.....

How are you going to celebrate our nation and its independence this weekend? I'd like to hear from you!

God, You have blessed America in the past because we have asked you to and because You are God and You wanted to. Now sometimes we decide to turn our back on You and attempt to 'go it' alone; do things our way. Not choosing 'under God'. Forgive us. Guide us. We confess that there are places where we are lost. We need a Guide. We need Protection. We need to remember who we are and who You are. You are the answer; You are our answer. In the name of Your Son, Jesus. Amen