Patriotism is a form of love because one valuable element of true patriotism is the overcoming of the fear of sacrifice. God's calling of the Gentiles, from the time of the establishment of the New Testament Church until now, is an event which precedes the reconciling of all Israel with God. The level of sacrifice demanded in Romans 12 resembles the sacrifice of life, honor and wealth demonstrated by the signers of the Declaration of Independence. In terms of patriotism to God's Kingdom, Jesus Christ set the standard higher than anyone else, sacrificing His life for everyone, even before His father had called them. The intensity of love Christ bears toward His Father and His people sets the standard for the intensity of love God's people should bear toward their brethren—as well as those God has not yet called. In order to attain this level of patriotism to God's Kingdom, His people must develop a close relationship with the Captain of their Salvation, who has mandated that they love their brethren as themselves, being willing to sacrifice their lives for them. Expressing this level of love is tantamount to doing God's will, glorifying Him and demonstrating patriotism to His Kingdom. Just as the American patriots made great sacrifices, realizing that the prevailing world powers outnumbered them, so God's people must stand ready to sacrifice all, mutually pledging their lives, fortune and honor to God, trusting in the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Though God's people's struggle is more spiritual than physical, the stakes are just as high.