Mourn with those who mourn. (Romans 12:15)
Today is known as Patriot Day, and it marks the 19th anniversary of what most Americans call “the 9/11 attacks,” when terrorists attacked the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, and hijacked United Airlines Flight 93, which was on course for Washington, D.C., but crashed in Pennsylvania because courageous passengers fought back. This life-altering event began at 8:46 am Eastern time, when the first plane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. When the attack was over, four planes had been crashed and the two towers collapsed, leaving nearly 3,000 dead. On this day we pause to remember:
- Those who lost their lives due to this tragic event
- Those brave first responders who demonstrated sacrificial heroism
- Those who continue to mourn the loss of family members and friends
Let us recall this day that, no matter what happens in this world, our God is still on His throne and in complete control of all things, including even these horrific events. Let us pray for peace in this world and let us continue advancing the cause of the kingdom of Christ by sharing the love of God in Christ Jesus to all those we come in contact with.
Remember, Christian believer, there is a day coming when there will be no more mourning, no more pain, no more tears, and no more death. Jesus is coming back, and when He does, the truth of this Gospel-saturated saying from Tolkien’s The Return of the King —
“Is everything sad going to come untrue?”
— will be “Yes” and “Amen” for all those who are in Christ. Every sad experience you have ever had, and all the bad that has ever happened to you in this life will come untrue in the next life because of Jesus Christ.
May that truth set you free to be all God is calling you to be in Christ.
This is the Gospel. This is grace for your race. NEVER FORGET THAT . . . AMEN!
Grace for the Race 