Dear Christian singles: As we approach the 250th anniversary of our nation’s birth—July 4, 2026—I find myself reflecting deeply on what it means to be an American. I’m celebrating not because our country is flawless, but because, despite our imperfections, the United States remains the greatest beacon of hope, opportunity, and freedom the world has ever known.
Like any family, America has its flaws and struggles. We’ve wrestled with division, injustice, and mistakes throughout our history. Yet time and again, we rise. We confront our shortcomings with the very principles our founders inscribed in the Declaration of Independence: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. While not all our Founding Fathers were Christians, they certainly embraced the Judeo-Christian morality and ethics that shaped our laws, our sense of human dignity, and the moral framework that made our country what it is today. These ideals, rooted in a profound belief that every person bears the image of God, have guided us through wars, economic trials, and social upheavals. They remind us that we are a work in progress—imperfect vessels carrying an extraordinary promise.
I believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, and I believe deeply in American Exceptionalism. This isn’t arrogance; it’s gratitude for the unique experiment in liberty that has lifted more people out of poverty and oppression than any other nation in history.
That promise is why people from every corner of the globe still dream of coming here. They come seeking safety for their families, freedom to worship and speak their minds, and the chance to build something better through hard work and ingenuity. America is a melting pot unlike any other—a vibrant tapestry woven from countless cultures, languages, and stories. Here, a pastor like me can stand alongside neighbors from Latin America, Asia, Africa, and Europe, all pursuing the American Dream together. Our diversity isn’t a weakness; it’s one of our greatest strengths when united by shared values of faith, family, and freedom.
I get tears in my eyes and goosebumps every single time I hear “America the Beautiful.” The lyrics stir something deep within me—the amber waves of grain, the purple mountain majesties, and the shining sea—all symbols of the God-given beauty and promise of this land. I proudly wave the flag and the principles it stands for: liberty, justice, opportunity, and equality under the law. These are the same principles my daddy and so many others fought for at Omaha Beach and countless other theaters in wars and in daily life, sacrificing so that future generations could enjoy the blessings of freedom.
I truly believe, as Theodore Roosevelt did, that anyone can become an American—as long as they assimilate and put America first. It’s that spirit of loyalty to our shared ideals that has made us strong for 250 years. It’s not about erasing where we came from, but about embracing what unites us here. True American patriotism and Christian faith are about love of country, love of neighbor, and a humble recognition that our blessings come from God—not supremacy or exclusion.
Look no further than the excitement surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup on our soil. Players and fans from around the world have poured into our stadiums and cities, celebrating not just the beautiful game but the spirit of America itself. American fans have lit up venues with red, white, and blue, singing “Take Me Home, Country Roads” in thunderous unity, waving flags, and showing the world what heartfelt patriotism looks like. Visitors rave about our barbecue, our neighborhoods, our welcoming energy, and the vibrant life we share. It’s a powerful reminder: people don’t flock here by accident. They come because America offers something rare—room to dream, space to succeed, and a people who, at our best, extend open arms and second chances.
It saddens me to see some choosing to boycott these celebrations simply because of politics—particularly disagreements with leaders or policies. In my humble opinion, this isn’t about any one person or party. It’s about the United States of America and the millions of incredible, everyday people who make her extraordinary: the teachers shaping young minds, the small business owners grinding to provide for their families, the first responders running toward danger, the veterans who sacrificed everything, and the faithful servants in churches and communities lifting up the hurting. It’s about honoring the blood, sweat, and prayers of generations who built this nation under God.
As a pastor who has spent years ministering to diverse singles and families, and the “hurting and hungry” at Oasis Church, I see America’s heart every day. We are a land where grace can abound, where second chances are real, and where ordinary people do extraordinary things. We are the country that rallies in crisis, innovates in adversity, and sings anthems of hope even in stormy seasons.
So this 250th anniversary, I’m choosing celebration over cynicism. I’m waving the flag high, thanking God for His blessings on this land, and recommitting myself to being part of the solution—to love my neighbor, serve my community, and pray for our leaders. America’s best days aren’t behind us; they’re ahead if we remember who we are: one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
To everyone reading this—whether you’re a lifelong American or someone who just arrived with dreams in your heart—happy 250th, America! You’re still the best place on earth. Let’s honor her by living out the values that make her shine: faith, freedom, hard work, and love for one another.
God bless you, and God bless the United States of America.
— David Butler, Lead Pastor, Oasis Church NJ and Founder of Oasis Singles.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” John 3:16
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