In the year 1775, as our nation teetered on the brink of its greatest military conflict, the American Revolution, a profound spiritual undercurrent began to emerge. The British, then the world’s most formidable military power, occupied Boston, and tensions in the colonies were reaching a boiling point.

General George Washington, a man deeply devout in his faith, recognized the dire straits of the nation. He sought to intercept British supplies, but the Continental Congress, fearing further King George, hesitated. Undeterred, Washington took the initiative to commission six ships, effectively establishing a fledgling navy, sometimes even rumored to be at his own personal expense.

A flag was needed to fly proudly over these ships. Before the iconic stars and stripes were born, these vessels sailed under the banner of “An Appeal to Heaven.” This flag, a symbol of both defiance and divine providence, was also seen on floating batteries, riverbanks, in towns, on battlefields like Bunker Hill, and even in the nation’s capital, Philadelphia.

The phrase “An Appeal to Heaven” was inspired by the renowned English philosopher John Locke, whose ideas profoundly influenced the American Founding Fathers.  His concept of the universal law of nature was outlined in his Second Treatise of Government (1689-90), and states that when earthly justice fails, individuals have the right to appeal to a higher power.

The pine tree depicted on the flag held significant symbolism for the colonists. It drew inspiration from the Iroquois Confederacy, where six tribes united under a great pine tree, burying their weapons as a symbol of peace. This act was known as “burying the hatchet”. A bald eagle guarded the tree on the Iroquois seal.

This imagery foreshadowed the American eagle on the United States seal, clutching 13 arrows for the 13 colonies. Furthermore, the pine tree was a vital resource for the newly formed nation, particularly for the tall masts of its sailing ships. The British Crown’s desire to control access to these valuable trees made the use of the tree on the flag further symbolic.

As the American colonies embarked on their perilous journey toward independence, the phrase “An Appeal to Heaven” became a rallying cry. George Washington, a man of devout faith, recognized the nation’s reliance on divine intervention. The flag, emblazoned with this phrase, offered hope and inspiration to a people who, from a worldly perspective, faced insurmountable odds.

Today, as our nation grapples with spiritual and moral decline, the words and history behind this flag serve as a timely reminder. We have strayed from our reliance on God Almighty and have placed our trust in ourselves. Yet still through a renewed “Appeal to Heaven” can we find true healing and restoration for our land!

Just as the Iroquois Confederacy united under the pine tree, Christians today are called to unite under the banner of Christ in the unity that Jesus prayed for in John 17:21. Only then can we effectively answer His prayer and bring about the spiritual renewal our nation desperately needs.