OPINION:
September not only welcomes the much-anticipated fall season but marks several other important remembrances as well, including one of my favorites: Constitution Week. This annual observance from September 17-23 invites us to reflect on and appreciate the foundational document of our nation, the United States Constitution. Constitution Week, although little known, is an important reminder of the vital roles our public servants play in upholding the tenets of the Constitution still today.
For Christians, Constitution Week provides a unique opportunity to explore how the principles embedded in this founding document resonate with our faith.
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Back in 1955, The Daughters of the American Revolution petitioned Congress to dedicate a week each year to the observance of the Constitution. This resolution was adopted by Congress and signed into law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956.
The Constitution is both the oldest and shortest written constitution of any major national government. Drafted over a period of about six weeks and framed in 100 days, it replaced the Articles of Confederation and established a republic — a form of government where power rests with the people and is exercised through elected representatives.
The Preamble of the Constitution reads:
“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”
The Constitution is rich with moral language and principles and helped establish a nation where Christians can live out our faith. While the Constitution can be amended, one thing that can’t be changed is the Word of God. Even though the Bible was written even longer ago than the Constitution, both are still relevant to our everyday lives. Let’s take a closer look at the Preamble of the Constitution and see where the Bible guides us here as well.
1. Form a More Perfect Union: The Framers sought to create a better government than what existed under the Articles of Confederation. In the same way, Christians strive toward renewal and growth through Christ, as 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
2. Establish Justice: Creating a fair legal system was a core aim of the Constitution. God’s Word also charges its readers to be righteous, judging fairly and defending those who need help. Proverbs 31:8-9 says “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” Isaiah 1:17 reads, “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.”
3. Ensure Domestic Tranquility: A peaceful society is one of the Constitution’s goals. The Bible urges believers to lead peaceful lives. Proverbs 17:14 warns that “Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.” In Romans 12:18, the author, Paul, writes “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
4. Provide for the Common Defense: The Constitution aims to protect citizens from external threats. While Christians face both earthly and spiritual threats, a warning to stay alert and protected appears in 1 Peter 5:8: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
5. Promote the General Welfare: Ensuring a certain standard of living for all is a constitutional and biblical principle. The Bible teaches that the prosperity of the community directly impacts the flourishing of the individual. Jeremiah 29:7 reads “Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.”
6. Secure the Blessings of Liberty to Ourselves and Our Posterity: Protecting freedoms for current and future generations is a shared goal of the Constitution and the Christian faith. Calls for freedom from sin and freedom to serve well ring throughout God’s Word, especially in the writings of Paul, including Galatians 5:13 which says “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”
As we celebrate Constitution Week, here are some ways Christians can engage with and appreciate this important time:
1. Study the Constitution: Take time to read and understand the Constitution. Reflect on its historical context and its impact on our current governance. Discuss its relevance with family and friends.
2. Teach the next generation: Share the history and principles of the Constitution with children and young people. If you don’t, who will?
3. Participate in community events: Join local events and activities that commemorate Constitution Week. This could include attending lectures, participating in discussions or visiting museums and historical sites.
4. Reflect on personal responsibility: Consider your role as a citizen and a Christian in upholding the values of the Constitution.
5. Pray for the nation: Use this week to pray for the country’s leaders, lawmakers and citizens. Pray for wisdom, justice, and peace to prevail in all aspects of governance. If you are looking for a structured way to pray for elected officials by name, check out Project K.E.E.P., an initiative by Medi-Share that provides calendars and resources to lift up elected officials in prayer!
Constitution Week offers a valuable opportunity to deepen our understanding of the nation’s founding principles and how they intersect with our Christian faith. How will you be observing Constitution Week?
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Lindsey Swindle is the Director of Government & Policy Affairs at Christian Care Ministry, the not-for-profit organization which operates the Medi-Share program. Project K.E.E.P. is the non-partisan initiative encouraging Christians to actively and specifically pray for elected officials.
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