OK, I've seen this before, but I need to have it handy. I got it from this excellent article. I think it applies to patriotism as well.
Jesus explains how to pray: "And when you pray, do not imitate the hypocrites; they love to say their prayers standing up in the synagogues and at the street corners for people to see them. In truth, I tell you, they have had their reward. But when you pray, go to your private room, shut yourself in, and pray so to your Father who is in that secret place, and your Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you." -Matthew 6:5-6
no subject
--yansa!