Each year, we remember 9/11/2001 as a “defining moment” in the history of the United States of America. A lot has changed since that fateful day eleven years ago. I still sense that we’ve lost something precious to us – security, peace, confidence?

We’ve heard a lot about those who died. Now there are stories from the survivors, amazing stories, hard to believe, and difficult for those people to share any sooner..
Whatever the story, I still feel a renewed pain and sorrow when I review the events of the day. I can only imagine the difficulty for those who lost loved ones, and those who witnessed the awful attacks. With sadness we recently heard of the death of a friend, who went to ground zero to counsel the first responders and others who needed spiritual and emotional support. He had contracted several heath problems due to his time there. Our hearts go out to his family and friends, even though we know Ray is with his Lord. The stories continue, and will continue for many years.

I thank God we are still here. We can still share the hope we have in Jesus Christ. No matter what our story, we can still make a difference. And we can still make the sacrifice of so many count by how we live and serve.

I hope we can remember the important things in life. After 9/11/2001, Americans reevaluated their priorities, we drew together in significant ways, we became more aware of other people and cultures. I hope we will grow through our remembrances, and not be caught in a web of anger and hate or in the trap of apathy.