Reflections on 9/11
0 Comments Published by Martin Nicholas on Tuesday, September 12, 2006 at 10:54 AM.
Yesterday was a sad and somber day for me as I reflected on the events that changed our world five years ago on 11 September 2001. Throughout the day, Americans and others around the world lifted prayers of remembrance to God for the thousands of innocent victims of the murderous attacks on our land and for the heroic efforts of others who willingly offered themselves to protect, defend and care for those at risk. The testimonies and memorials about the civil servants and the armed forces of our great nation were moving. Like so many I saw through the day, I was moved to tears.
Yet, I was also struck by the transition that continues to occur in our world due to the war on terrorism that was unleashed on that fateful day. Even now, it has become more difficult to travel on airlines. Racial prejudice still raises its ugly presence in the guise of suspicion. Our young men and women in the military are in harm's way, valiantly defending our nation and promoting freedom and liberty in the face of tyrannical violence. Change always brings a transition and a sense of loss.
The transition that follows change is even seen here at the church. The new Sunday morning schedule of worship and Bible study has produced dramatic transitions for people who are still trying to find their way. While the sense of community is enhanced and the worship has been strong, each and every person on the campus on Sundays still feels a sense of loss and uncertainty. Yet, through it all, there seems to be a deep, abiding certainty that God is in control and has great plans for the church to be His instrument to touch and transform lives through the grace of Jesus Christ. That is what provides our energy and enthusiasm.
I know that the headlines tomorrow will cause me saddness. It greives me to see the needless, senseless violence, death and cruelty that is inflicted on innocent persons throughout the world, often in the name of religion. However, my faith and trust is in God, whose heart and compassion for the world is beyond comprehension. I know and trust that God will use the church in the face of horror, oppression, poverty and strife. I know and trust that God will direct our paths through changes and transitions, if we are faithful and obedient.
Yet, I was also struck by the transition that continues to occur in our world due to the war on terrorism that was unleashed on that fateful day. Even now, it has become more difficult to travel on airlines. Racial prejudice still raises its ugly presence in the guise of suspicion. Our young men and women in the military are in harm's way, valiantly defending our nation and promoting freedom and liberty in the face of tyrannical violence. Change always brings a transition and a sense of loss.
The transition that follows change is even seen here at the church. The new Sunday morning schedule of worship and Bible study has produced dramatic transitions for people who are still trying to find their way. While the sense of community is enhanced and the worship has been strong, each and every person on the campus on Sundays still feels a sense of loss and uncertainty. Yet, through it all, there seems to be a deep, abiding certainty that God is in control and has great plans for the church to be His instrument to touch and transform lives through the grace of Jesus Christ. That is what provides our energy and enthusiasm.
I know that the headlines tomorrow will cause me saddness. It greives me to see the needless, senseless violence, death and cruelty that is inflicted on innocent persons throughout the world, often in the name of religion. However, my faith and trust is in God, whose heart and compassion for the world is beyond comprehension. I know and trust that God will use the church in the face of horror, oppression, poverty and strife. I know and trust that God will direct our paths through changes and transitions, if we are faithful and obedient.
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