Recently I had a conversation with a family member I dearly love and deeply respect, still. The topic turned political—my fault, since I voiced frustration about one of the figures in our current administration.

That opened the door to a discussion that revealed we were far more politically divided than I realized. At one point, I was asked directly if I had supported the current (Trump) administration. When I admitted I did—even knowing it could sever our relationship—the response was swift:

“You can’t consider yourself a patriot.”

That stung.

But rather than get defensive, I wanted to hear the other side. I asked for evidence. I asked where the information came from that supported such a claim against me. Because the truth is, I’ve been looking—and I haven’t seen it.

Here’s what I’ve realized: I’m not angry. People are entitled to their opinions. And just because that’s someone’s opinion of me doesn’t make it true.

What I’ve dwelled on most is this—while I am grateful to live in this country, and while I do believe America is a great nation (especially having lived in and visited other countries), I don’t actually care if people think of me first as a patriot.

My U.S. passport proves my earthly citizenship. My Texas driver’s license confirms my state residency.

I also recognize that my freedom to say this—to write, speak, and live out my faith—among many other freedoms-was safeguarded by the blood of countless men and women who gave their lives in service to this country. Because of their sacrifice, and because of the protections guaranteed by our Constitution, I still have the legal right to speak what I believe, even when people who think like me are ridiculed, silenced, or persecuted.

That same freedom also extends to those who don’t think like me. They, too, have the right to speak, write, and live out what they believe—even when we disagree.

I don’t take those soldiers’ sacrifices, past and present lightly. I honor their courage and the high price they paid. I believe that I have voted and will continue to vote in alignment with the beliefs I ascribe to in mind. That freedom points me to something greater…

My residency is in Heaven.

That eternal home was purchased for me in blood by Jesus Christ when He died on the cross for my sins—and yours too. He rose from the grave defeating death and has prepared a place for His followers in Heaven. That reality sets my priorities:

My first allegiance is to God. My second allegiance is to my family. My third and fourth allegiances are to this country and this state.

I am a citizen of Heaven, and I want my behavior here on earth to bear the weight of that truth, run through the filter of eternity. I’m not striving to be a great American or a great Texan. I’m striving to be a faithful citizen of Heaven—because if I live that way, then perhaps I’ll also be both a better American and Texan.

At the end of the day, that’s what I stand for.

I support the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the inerrancy of His Word found in the 66 books of the Bible, the complete and divinely inspired revelation of God. I believe we are all made by Him and in His image—whether we want to admit it or not—and we should treat each other accordingly.

That is my first allegiance. That is my identity. That is where my citizenship rests.

And I’m getting homesick for that perfect place.

👉 “I’d love to hear from you—where do you place your first allegiance? what does being a citizen of Heaven mean to you? Share your thoughts in the comments.”