I don't like it either 50. The Church transcends nations, tribes, tongues and an America flag in the sanctuary smacks of a civil form of 'Christianity' that frankly speaking at best ain't worth much in my book. That said, like you, I understand and it's not a hill, as a pastor, I am willing to die on. There's one in our sanctuary (there wasn't one in my first church). In a few years, I'm hoping it's removed, maybe to the fellowship hall or something. Will take some patient teaching though.