It was a typical Tuesday morning. Dylan was playing with his toy trains. At 2 1/2 years old, life was uncomplicated for my little boy. Our peaceful morning was interrupted by a phone call, then another, and another. Call after call alerting me to turn on the news. America had been attacked.
I went into my bedroom and turned on the t.v. The shocking images of the World Trade Center on fire with smoke pouring out did not seem real. The grim reality set in at the horrific sight of the towers rapidly collapsing. Chaos, people covered in dust running, and crying. I was in complete shock like everyone else. Safe America was no more.
Our church filled up that night with people praying. Crying out to God. Looking for answers. Trying to make sense of what happened. Our false sense of security had been breeched. It was the first time I had experienced real fear living in a free and presumably safe country.
Almost 3000 people were killed in the 9/11 terror attacks on America. It’s the largest terrorist attack in world history. Four planes in total were hijacked. Two planes struck the World Trade Center towers, one plane struck the Pentagon, and flight 93 crashed into a Pennsylvania field.
Mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, husbands, wives, children, aunts, uncles, and grandparents were gone. Real people who were dearly loved. Those who lost their precious loved ones on that awful day never forget. They can’t.
There are countless miraculous stories from that tragic day. So many first responders ran into the danger to save people, to help. Many gave their lives. Ordinary citizens became heroes as well. Like those who helped bring flight 93 down. Sacrifice, honor, humanity, service, and love are what I think of when all these heroic people come to mind.
One of the most tragic days in American history brought us together. There were U.S. flags everywhere. A new sense of patriotism. Not because we were better than any other country, but because we were better together. What was meant to destroy us, made us stronger.
Churches were filled to the brim. Those of us with faith clung to Jesus, our only hope. Some who had ignored God, started seeking and searching Him out. We were a little kinder to each other, gave a little more grace, and hugged our loved ones a little tighter. Our human frailty confronted us all on that dark day.
May we never forget those cherished lives that were lost on 9/11.
The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;
my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge,
my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
Psalm 18:2
Father God,
Thank you for your grace and mercy. We lift up all the families and those hurting today as they remember their loved ones who’s lives were lost on 9/11. Comfort them, Father. Give them peace and surround them with Your love. Remind them of the good memories they have of their loved ones. Bring love, support, and encouragement to these special people. May they experience your deep abiding love.
We lift up all those who suffered injuries and trauma from those evil attacks. Give them peace, healing, and comfort. Draw each of them to you Lord. May they experience the life changing love from the Prince of Peace, Jesus.
Heal our land, Lord. As we remember 9/11 today, remind us of who we can be in Christ. We cry out to You, Abba, for mercy, grace and forgiveness. Turn our hard hearts back to You.
In Jesus Mighty name,
Amen
Meghan E White 