I am not the flag: not at all. I am but its shadow. (Franklin Night Lane, 19th-20th century politician)
Today is Flag Day in the United States. While some people disrespect the flag today, Lane held it in high esteem, apparently very proud to represent the flag. It’s not the fabric with stars and stripes, of course, but what the banner represents: the nation’s unity and freedom achieved at high cost. The flag is a symbol worth acknowledging with respect.
Righteousness exalts a nation. . . . Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord. . . . “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. (Proverbs 14:34; 33:12; 46:10)