This week's sermon explored the biblical framework for understanding our dual citizenship—as Americans and as citizens of heaven. We examined how to live faithfully in the tension between loving our country while recognizing that our ultimate allegiance belongs to God's eternal kingdom. The message challenged us to be grateful for America's blessings while keeping our eyes fixed on our true home in heaven, and to live as faithful stewards of everything God has entrusted to us during our temporary time here on earth.

Takeaways:

• We are strangers and exiles on earth. Just as Abraham and the heroes of faith looked beyond their temporary circumstances to God's eternal promises, we must remember that America, like our bodies and even our marriages, is temporary. Our true citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20), and we should invest our lives accordingly—not pouring everything into what we're merely "renting" for a short time.

• We are called to both rejoice and weep. While we have much to celebrate about America—our freedoms, opportunities, and blessings—we must also weep with those who have suffered and continue to suffer. This includes acknowledging painful parts of our nation's history and present, from slavery's legacy to current struggles with addiction, injustice, and brokenness. Romans 12:15 calls us to both rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep.

• Our primary mission is making disciples for God's kingdom. As followers of Christ, our greatest calling is to fulfill the Great Commission—making disciples who make disciples (Matthew 6:10). This kingdom work is eternal, unlike the temporary nature of earthly nations. We must prioritize connecting people to Jesus and helping them grow in discipleship relationships, moving from rows to circles to one-on-one mentoring.

Spend time this week asking yourself: Where are my eyes truly focused? Am I living as a faithful steward of God's resources? Who can I pour into as a disciple-maker? How can I better love my neighbors who may not share my perspective or experience of America?

Let us love our country well while keeping our hearts set on things above, praying with the founding father Benjamin Rush: "Come quickly, Lord Jesus."

Join us for our Community Picnic immediately following the worship service! A sign-up sheet for side dishes, desserts, and other food items is available in the Welcome Center. The church will provide the meats. We're looking forward to welcoming families from the skate park, our volleyball and pickleball groups, and members of the community. Please invite your friends, neighbors, and family to come enjoy an afternoon of food, fellowship, and fun. It's a wonderful opportunity to connect with our community and introduce others to GCC!