“AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL”
Katharine Lee Bates (1859-1929) wrote, edited and taught English in her native Massachusetts. Occasionally, she wrote hymns, too.
On a trip to Colorado, Bates was greatly impressed by amber waves of grain, fruited plains and purple mountain majesties. She believed that God had definitely shed his grace all across this land. A visit to the summit of Pikes Peak inspired Bates to write her most famous poem-hymn, “America the Beautiful.”
Bates also realized that patriotism was an important part of America. She was grateful for heroes “who more than self their country loved and mercy more than life.” She wanted all Americans to realize how God had shed his grace on them and had crowned what was good “with brotherhood from sea to shining sea.”
Bates embodied the spirit of thankfulness to God for all she had experienced and been given.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT HALF
An elderly clergyman chugging slowly along on a sidewalk was hailed by a middle-aged workman as they neared each other.
“Hi, Jerry,” said the workman cheerily. “How are you?”
The old pastor replied, “Oh, I’m about 50/50.”
“Well,” replied the worker, “take the better half and forget the other half.”
VACATION TIME
Someone has said, “Vacation is what you take when you can’t take what you’ve been taking any longer.”
There are good reasons to take a vacation every year: spending time with friends and loved ones, experiencing physical and mental refreshment, enjoying changes in scenery and routine, and preparing for another year of productivity.
Please enjoy your vacation! Try to be faithful to the Lord by attending church while you’re away, if you have the opportunity.
Just remember that during vacations and weekend getaways, you’re especially missed by your friends at church. The work of the church suffers because no one can fill your place of responsibility quite like you.
God’s work goes on all summer long. Your presence and gifts are needed to enable the church to be strong and vigorous throughout the entire year. When you’re away, please bring or send your offering before you go.
Have a wonderful summer!
PATRIOTIC TRIVIA
As we celebrate America’s birthday, it’s interesting to note that clergymen wrote both the Pledge of Allegiance and the hymn “My Country ’Tis of Thee.” Rev. Francis Bellamy wrote the pledge in 1892. Rev. Samuel Francis Smith wrote the hymn in 1831. Both men were Baptist ministers.
The pledge was first used in public schools in 1892 during Columbus Day observances. “My Country ’Tis of Thee” was used as a national song before “The Star-Spangled Banner” was named America’s national anthem in 1931.
A DOLLAR BILL’S MESSAGE
Look at the back of a dollar bill. On the left circle, which is one side of the Great Seal, are the Latin words Annuit Coeptis, which mean “He [God] favors our undertakings.”
The pyramid in the left circle represents material strength and endurance. Yet the open spot near the top of the pyramid means there’s more good work to be done in our country. The “eye” atop the pyramid represents the “eye of God,” watching and reminding us that spiritual matters are more important than material concerns. Under the pyramid, Novus Ordo Seclorum refers to a “new order of the ages.”
On the right circle is an eagle, our country’s national emblem, symbolizing strength and victory. The shield on the eagle’s breast signifies self-reliance. One of the eagle’s claws holds an olive branch, representing peace. The other talon holds arrows, referring to power and protection.
The center of the bill says “In God We Trust.”