Ten years ago this weekend, life as we knew it in America was forever changed by the tragic acts of terrorists. Yet, in the midst of the horror, Americans from all walks of life came together as one to grieve, to resolve, and to return to the roots of our nation's Christian foundation. A firm foundation of faith in God that was so prominent and evident in our founding father's vision for America. A foundation so firm that references to His guidance are carved into the walls of our national monuments and buildings. As a nation, as we sought to make sense of this horrific event, it seemed that we collectively turned to what we knew in our hearts to be right.

Many things were different in our everyday lives immediately following the attacks of 9/11/2001. Some of those things were good, even in the sorrow and pain of the events, and, as we pause to remember the tenth anniversary, we should again embrace those things that returned unity to our country. In the days, weeks, and months just after the attack, people were more patient, kinder, and sensitive to others. Churches were filled with those seeking answers and solace, as well as with those who felt a deep longing to return our nation to one that acknowledges and gives honor to God. Our lives were focused more on values and principles rather than attitudes of apathy, indifference or inconvenience.

Other good things rose from the destruction of that September morning. The existence of this bookstore for example, is an indirect result of the attack. For several years I had been working in Dayton, Ohio; spending the week in Dayton and coming home to my family only on the weekends. In Dayton that Tuesday morning, while watching the news accounts as the events unfolded, a deep conviction came over me that changes were necessary in my life. God seemed to be telling me that life was too fragile, and passes too quickly, for me to spend so much of it away from my wife and sons. After spending the next several months of unsuccessfully searching for employment in our local area, the call to open the bookstore came during some deep prayer for His guidance.

Don't let this anniversary of 911 pass without pausing to reflect on the loss, and sorrow, of those families directly affected; and of our nation, so desperately in need of a return to its' Godly beginnings. Let's surround our neighbors, near and far, with prayer for healing and encouragement. As we remember, let's also give thanks to God for the good that came as a result of tragedy, and pray that He would continue to guide and bless America.

Blessings, 

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Read Billy Graham's Day of Remembrance address - 9/14/2011 

 

Read President Bush's Day of Remembrance Address - 9/14/2011