To Whom Do You Belong?

I had the privilege of witnessing some 100 people get sworn in as United States citizens today. It was very cool, and life changing. Not only because one of those people was my husband Pablo, born in Argentina, but also because of the things that surrounded this whole experience. People were in tears during the ceremony. Some waiting over 20 years for this. People from all over the world, wanting desperately to become a part of this nation! I indeed take my citizenship for granted.

While studying for his test, Pablo had a hard time with the part that he must renounce his old country. His loyalties must now be with the United States of America. I have to admit I was a bit offended at first. Since I have known him, he has not put his hand on his heart during the National Anthem. It prompted me to think. What would I do in another country? Would it be hard for me? I then began to list some things I have given up in life. For example, when becoming a Christian there were things I renounced. It was my CHOICE to become a Christ follower, but it was still difficult to give up the old things that defined me. The behaviors I belonged to. Pablo has always explained to me that it wasn't a sign of disrespect, but that it simply wasn't his country...but today I saw him sing and pledge to his new country! I saw a new pride in him.

I have pride for our state. I think Colorado is the best state to live int. I love the sports, weather, mountains, sunsets...everything. I even still have loyalties to my high school! I like to see Cherry Creek H. S. succeed. Even my neighborhood growing up (Willow Creek, woo woo) triggers something in me. See? I felt the need to "woo woo"! We defend these things, fight for them. In a way belong to them, or them to us.

However exciting it is for my husband to now be naturalized, it also holds some sadness. He is changed. But he made this CHOICE because he knows the benefits this decision will have not only for him, but others. Plus at the end of the day he, and myself, know to Whom we really belong. We know that no matter where we live, what team we root for, what country our passport was issued from, that we belong to something bigger! We belong to Christ. So none of this matters really. It matters to our flesh maybe, and to the government, but not to God. We are His! I know for sure where I belong. I know for sure to Whom I belong! A choice I made, and happily make every day. I love you Jesus, thanks for making me Your own!

John 15:19 "If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world..."

1Peter 2:9 "...for you are a chosen people. You are a kingdom of priests, God's holy nation, his very own possession. This is so you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light."

"Daughter of the Most High King" From my mom, hangs by my bed :)