Remembering 9-11
It was 25 years ago today, September 11, when everything changed. Two commercial airliners were hijacked and flown into the World Trade Towers in New York City. Another airliner was flown into the Pentagon. And a fourth plane, perhaps destined for the United States Capital or White House, was downed by brave passengers in a field in Pennsylvania. We will never forget that dreadful and disastrous day. Those of us alive at the time can still remember where we were when the news hit.
2,977 persons, including a 441 fighter-fighters, police, and first responders, lost their lives that day. Many more have since died of related diseases due to the toxic smoke and dust resulting from the crashes. 9-11 is regarded as the worst attack on American soil by a foreign adversary in American history. As we mourn the loss of those killed in the attack, including 8 Iowans, we are also reminded that evil is real. Unfortunately, people still plot death and destruction against their enemies.
Today is a sobering day. But it is not a day without hope. The Apostle Paul said: “We do not grieve like the rest of people who have no hope” (1 Thessalonians 4:13). As believers in the risen Christ, we profess that those who trust in Jesus will also be raised from the dead (John 3:16). We also recognize that God is ‘close to the brokenhearted’ (Psalm 34:18) and stands with those who grieve. Even in a troubled and broken world, our faith gives us hope. Death is not the end. God is with us!
And so we are poignantly reminded that this world needs Jesus! People of all walks of life, ethnicities, nations, social strata, and backgrounds need to experience the love of God for salvation. The transforming power of God’s Spirit is needed in everyone’s life. Without the grace and goodness of God, evil runs amuck and death and destruction reign. But God has a plan to restore the world. And guess what? We are that plan! Ordinary people like us are called to be the salt and light of Jesus!
Join us Sunday at Grace Church as we seek to transform ‘disaster into discipleship.’ It’s Discipleship Sunday and we will commission all leaders and teachers as we launch our Fall ministries, including Fish Net for children and The ROCK for youth. Worship begins at 10:00 AM. My message is entitled: “Salty Influencers.” A Children’s Church will be provided. Refreshments will follow the service. The Spirit will be moving. Let us keep the faith, keep the hope, and keep reaching others!