Imagine a moment when the American flag, battered but resilient, stood as a beacon of unity. From the tragic ashes of 9/11 to moments of national triumph, this enduring emblem has symbolized resilience, hope and a shared identity. Today, as cultural divisions deepen, can the flag again inspire us to unite as one nation?
The U.S. State Department’s “One Flag Policy” mandates that only the American flag — except for specific instances, such as the POW/MIA flag — be flown at U.S. embassies around the world. To ensure a unified identity, this policy prohibits additional flags, including the Pride flag and the Black Lives Matter flag.
While the policy invites debate, its purpose is clear: to promote unity over division. In an era when division permeates our culture and churches, this policy encourages us to reflect on unifying principles and the significance of raising one banner high.
Red, white and blue: symbols of freedom
Flags signify a common identity and set of values. The red in the American flag represents sacrifice, white denotes purity and blue signifies justice. Together, these colors capture the essence of liberty and unity.
From its adoption in 1777 to its iconic presence at Ground Zero after 9/11, the flag has brought Americans together during both crises and celebrations. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. marched under this banner, urging the nation toward justice and reconciliation grounded in biblical truth. He proclaimed, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
The “One Flag Policy” emphasizes unity over competing agendas, reflecting the Gospel’s call for oneness. Ephesians 2:14 reminds us that Jesus “has broken down the dividing wall of hostility.” Just as a flag unites a nation, the gospel unites believers, transcending the labels that divide us.
This article was originally published to Townhall and has been republished here with the permission of its author, Dr. Stephen Cutchins.