Rep. Omar seems confused and/or dismayed by my being a Christian. Perhaps some history might help; the sentiment I expressed goes back to the very founding of our Nation. Indeed, the motto of the American Legion is “for God and country.” 1/x
2/x George Washington wrote in 1778, “While we are zealously performing the duties of good citizens & soldiers, we certainly ought not to be inattentive to the higher duties of religion. To the distinguished character of Patriot, it should be our highest glory....”
3/x “... to add the more distinguished character of Christian.” This devotion to God AND country inspired the Declaration of Independence (“We hold these truths to be self-evident....”); gave force to the mighty Abolitionists; and drove the civil rights movement.
4/x Here’s how Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. put it in 1956, “The Christian owes his ultimate allegiance to God, and if any earthly institution conflicts with God's will it is your Christian duty to take a stand against it.”
5/x Dr. King—who was also Rev. King—continued, “May I say just a word to those of you who are struggling against this evil [of racism and segregation]. Always be sure that you struggle with Christian methods and Christian weapons....”
6/x MLK: “...Never succumb to the temptation of becoming bitter. As you press on for justice, be sure to move with dignity and discipline, using only the weapon of love. Let no man pull you so low as to hate him. Always avoid violence.”
