THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

Lord, almost certainly someone will ask today, “Where were you when you heard the planes hit the World Trade Centers?” Many remember in disbelief that such a terrorist attack could happen on our soil. In stunned silence, we watched events unfold, unable to fathom what were witnessing. Then came news of a plane slamming into the Pentagon. And then another plane crashed into a field in Pennsylvania. It all seemed surreal. Our righteous anger rose.

Our nation mourned these unjust attacks upon people who were merely going to work. Or perhaps taking that long-awaited family vacation. Or ironically, maybe some were flying to a funeral to say goodbye to a relative or friend. We will never forget seeing people, without hope of rescue, leaping from the towers into your eternal arms. Fearfully, yet courageously, firefighters and first responders ran into the buildings as terrified workers fled to safety.

One question must have been on everyone’s mind that day: “God, where are you?”

You were there. In a stairwell holding the hand of the lady confined to a wheelchair, trapped, knowing her time had come. You held close to your heart the trembling young millennial whose dream of marrying and having children would never come to pass. You directed the ordinary, non-descript office worker to perform heroic feats, sacrificing himself, helping others escape. You were there leading the firefighters and first responders, giving them supernatural courage, with them fully aware many would not come out.

You were there, Lord, offering mercy, giving comfort and peace to those who would soon step across to you. May we never forget, in our darkest hour, you promised never to leave us nor forsake us. And we believe you kept your Word.

Amen.