It’s true. I could be a better American.

I am guilty of only reflecting how wonderful it is to live in America when 1) I am traveling outside of the United States or 2) when I am with family and friends watching Fourth of July fireworks. Unfortunately, other than during those times, my freedoms, and how they allow me to live, seem to be “out of sight, out of mind” for me. I would like for that to change.

I am blessed to be a citizen of the United States of America.

But, I rarely pray for those who hold a high position of leadership in our government, even though the Bible tells me to do it.

I have never asked a governing official what I could do to serve them. I suppose I assumed they were put in place to serve me.

While I have come across soldiers in airports throughout the country, I have failed to stop and shake a hand to say “thank you.” These young men and women put their lives on the line , saying thanks is truly the least that I can do.

Pray, serve and be thankful — a few things that come to mind on how I can be a better American.

In a recent Facebook post, I asked for ways a person could be a “better American” and here are some of the responses:

• Pray for our leaders–at all levels of government.
• Be Gracious.
• Strive to care for the poor universally as the Bible mandates.
• Stand firmer on the truth and the light that is the word of God.
• Smile at people.
• Seek justice, love mercy, walk humbly with your God.
• Travel to foreign countries. A nice dose of reality helps.
• Put the needs of others first!
• Take time to volunteer and expect nothing in return.

These are all wonderful ideas and truly should come out of a heart of gratitude and a life that hopes to resemble Christ. I am grateful for grace that reminds me I don’t have to follow a “list” of things to be “better,” but, as a Christ-follower, I should follow the example of Jesus and improve how I live in the world. In fact, my actions as a Christian should truly set the bar!

Scripture reminds us:

“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Romans 13:1

“Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.” I Peter 2:17

Pray, serve and be thankful. Be a better American.

Thanks for reading my post. What do you think a person can do to be a better American?