|
  Who
will ever forget where they were and what they were doing on the
morning of September 11, 2001, when terrorists onboard 4 high-jacked
airliners slammed into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a
Pennsylvania field? Some of those people who had not considered God
for years probably considered Him on that day. Some who were at
peace with God probably shared God with others in their final
moments. Many who ran into the burning buildings as others ran out
came face to face with the reality of eternity. Many who dug with
their bare hands at Ground Zero probably prayed more than ever as
they tried to rescue those buried. Many people prayed for those in
the military units who were sent to take the War On Terror to the
enemy’s front door. My youngest son lived in Queens near Ground
Zero on that day.
September 11th brought home the reality that
life is fragile and short, that evil is real and the human spirit is
resilient. The acts of courage and sacrifice committed by people
will be remembered throughout our lifetime. Ezra 10:4 says, “Rise
up; this matter is in your hands. We will support you, so take
courage and do it." There were many people that day that took
courage and helped save lives. Since then, many young soldiers
have taken courage in the fight on terror. Seal Team Six
took courage and took out Osama Bin Laden.
In the Old Testament is the account where David,
the young sheepherder, made a giant contribution in the
defeat of the enemies of Israel. As revealed in Acts 17:6 the
Apostle Paul met a big challenge and ‘turned the world upside
down.’ And of course, Jesus Christ taught us how to respond to
tough times when He said in John 16:33, "I have told you these
things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will
have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
September 11th changed the world. How did it
change you? Do you appreciate freedom more now? Do you have a fresh
appreciation for fire fighters, police officers and our
brothers-in-arms? If you are a Christian do you have a new urgency
to share Christ with those around you? All of us will have had to
come to terms with this unspeakable tragedy. Those who know Christ
as Savior have the assurance that Paul was right in Romans 8:38-39
when he said, “For I am convinced that neither death nor life,
neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor
any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all
creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is
in Christ Jesus our Lord.” ?
Common Sense Application
1. To really appreciate the freedom afforded by
America, reread the history of our country. If you haven’t been to
Washington D.C., plan to visit our country’s roots soon.
2. Take time to tell the fire fighters, police
officers and military in your community that you appreciate their
commitment and service.
3. Recommit yourself to spiritual
excellence. Attend church and Bible Study regularly. Tell your
religious leaders how much you appreciate their service. ”
| 
