Editorial July 1, 1905 Issue

A Love-impelled Patriotism

John B. Willis

The sentiments and impulses which give character to a national holiday are not to be undervalued, even though upon special occasions they may reach a distressingly high tide of exuberance and enthusiasm. It would be conceded by all, save the big and little boys, that the fire-cracker, as it figures on the Fourth of July, is a symbol of nerve-trying and wellnigh unendurable racket. It stands, however, for other and better things; namely, the individual recognition of communal life and interests, and the joy experienced at thought of the welfare of the many.

Self-centeredness would identify man with the animal and so become his bane, and though the material sense which gives rise to this false individualism is escaped from only as we awake to spiritual life, conditions are vastly improved through the attainment of that self-forgetfulness to which patriotism conduces,—a self-forgetfulness which often makes both the high and humble heroic. Like many other things, this sentiment may degenerate under the influence of a narrow concept of personal interest. A fine high thought, which naturally expresses gratitude, unselfishness, and altruism, may thus become a mere physical exhilaration which is blaring, thoughtless, and morally debasing; and here, therefore, as everywhere, there is need of the redemptive Christ-idea.

The genuine patriot looks to a world-wide good. In keeping with his sense of brotherhood he is alive to the welfare of the race, the advance of true freedom in all the world. He may identify himself with local movements, but his influence is never limited or consumed by them. A Kossuth could give his entire physical strength and resources to the cause of his aspiring countrymen, but his hope embraced humanity and his appeal still moves men. When we realize that the possibilities of life's ministry are limited only by the breadth and intelligence of one's affection, we find the explanation of the fact that in being the world's greatest patriot, Christ Jesus became the world's greatest helper. Love is the universal benefactor, and the only true freedom is spiritual, hence the inclusiveness and adequacy of our Lord's Messiahship. Christianity claims as its own every comforting, healing, and saving impulse. The spirit of the Master begets the broadest sympathy,—interest in all men, their conditions, their aspirations, their needs; and this is the key which opens to Christ's true ambassadors the hearts and homes of their fellow-men. Love here finds its unbounded opportunity for service.

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