We’re taught loyalty long before we understand what it really means—at school, in church, in politics, and inside our families. But what happens when allegiance to systems begins to replace devotion to deeper values?

In the first episode of our Allegiance series, Angela and Deanna explore the difference between allegiance and devotion—between the loyalty we inherit and the commitments we consciously choose. Together they unpack how belonging, fear, and power shape our loyalties and invite us to begin asking more honest questions about what we defend, why we defend it, and whether it still aligns with our conscience.

Timestamps

00:00 – Why we learn loyalty before we understand it

03:30 – Allegiance vs. devotion: defining the difference

06:00 – The surprising history of the Pledge of Allegiance

09:00 – What Christian nationalism actually means

13:30 – The Sermon on the Mount vs. loyalty culture

21:50 – Fear, belonging, and the systems we defend

Show Music: Just Like Me by, ThruLine

The Morning Share Podcast is edited and produced by Angela Boeckman and Deanna West.

Socials

Website: themorningshare.com

Instagram: @themorningsharepod

Substack: themorningshare.substack.com

Resources Mentioned

Jesus and John Wayne, by Kristin Kobes Du Mez

What Christian Nationalism is ACTUALLY About, by Skye Jethani