Traditional flag etiquette prescribes that before an American flag is stored or presented, its handlers should twice fold it in half lengthwise; then (from the end opposite the blue field) make a triangular fold, continuing to fold it in triangles until the other end is reached.

This makes a triangular “pillow” of the flag with only the blue starred field showing on the outside, and it takes thirteen folds to produce: two lengthwise folds and eleven triangular ones. Additional traditions have, over the years, emerged from different quarters regarding the meaning of the thirteen folds, some political, some religious, some simply ceremonial.

David Mikkelson of snopes.com., upon researching the tradition, tells us “the American flag isn’t folded in this manner because each of the folds has a special symbolic meaning; the flag is folded this way because it provides a dignified ceremonial touch that distinguishes folding a flag from folding an ordinary object such as a bed sheet, and because it results in a visually pleasing, easy-to-handle shape.

The thirteen-fold procedure was a common practice long before ceremonial “meanings” were assigned to each of the steps. The elaborate flag folding ceremony incorporating these meanings has since been devised for special occasions, i.e., Memorial Day, Independence Day, Veterans Day.

However, as Mikkelson says, “These associations (special meanings attached) are ‘real,’ in the sense that they mean something to the people who participate in the ceremony, but they are not the reason why a flag is folded in the traditional thirteen-step manner. An invented (religious) symbolism has become so widespread that it is now often mistakenly assumed to have been an integral part of the origins of the item it is associated with.”

Whatever special meanings the folding of the flag may have for you, it is a good thing for parents and grandparents to “show and tell” your youngsters. There is nothing like passing along values, reminding the generations following of the things you cherish, maybe even fought for, in order for them to have a homeland and the freedoms we enjoy.

It is pretty obvious that I love the American flag, with all its traditions and symbolism. I love removing my cap out of respect, placing my hand over my heart and pledging “allegiance to the flag … One nation, under God, with liberty and justice for all,” at rallies, sporting events, and other appropriate occasions.

I am the proud holder of a US flag, that has flown for a day over our nation’s Capitol in Washington, D.C. It was presented to me by the US Representative of the district where I lived and served at the time, honoring years of spiritual, social and cultural leadership.

The truth is, this flag really belongs to the hundreds of dedicated followers of Jesus comprising the church I served at the time. It was given to me, but it was the collective influence and selfless witness of all our ministry team and the countless volunteers who shared their time and resources to make something great happen.

Celebrating the 4th of July in America is a celebration of freedom. I believe it is an athlete’s right to kneel in protest and refrain from reciting the pledge; at the same time, loving what my nation’s flag represents, I believe disrespecting our flag in any way is an inappropriate way to protest whatever one wants to speak out against.

So, to the followers of Jesus who are also citizens of this great country, stand tall, be respectful, protest wrong, and work for the right. Love God, your neighbor, and all that our beloved flag represents.

And when the 4th of July is over, fold the flag with appreciation, dignity and respect and store it safely until the next time.

May God give you a happy and safe Independence Day celebration!