September 11, 2001 was a day that changed the world. Most people, of course, didn’t realize what was happening when the first airliner hit a tower of the World Trade Center. In and of itself, it was a tragic occurrence in which many people died a horrible death. As word got out, and people tuned into the television reports, many witnessed the attack on the second tower, and as our minds were trying to sort it all out, we saw the buildings collapse. No one will forget, especially the eyewitnesses.
At the time of the attacks, I was at home, about eight miles or so from the Pentagon. As I watched the events in New York, I began hearing reports of what happened nearby, and wondered what in the world was going on. There was a lot of speculation, and we heard erroneous rumors of more attacks underway or that somehow were expected. Everything was in an uproar. People suddenly felt vulnerable and afraid. We all heard about the courage of the passengers on the jet who foiled a third attack, and who died in the crash in Pennsylvania.
In the days and weeks following the attacks, we heard the ominous sound of fighter jets patrolling over Washington. Anti-aircraft guns were installed and manned at various locations around the city. Shock, fear, grief, and anger were seen in the faces and felt in the hearts of people everywhere.
Our church held a prayer service, and with less than 24 hours notice, people flocked to our sanctuary and to others, turning to God and to the strengthening fellowship of people of faith. For a few weeks after September 11 church attendance soared in many places. But then, it dwindled back to normal, as it seemed no more attacks against the United States were imminent.
Solemn memorials justifiably are held each year on the anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Politicians use references to September 11 as a means to garner support for their policies or candidacies. Books and memorabilia are sold, movies and television specials play on our emotions.
Wars we initiated continue in Afghanistan and Iraq, related to the events of September 11, now lasting longer than U.S. involvement in World War II. Multitudes of people have died as a result, many times more than died in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania.
Where is everyone on Sunday morning when worship and prayer occur at the churches? It seems despite the killing, devastation, and destruction “over there,” life remains pretty normal here.
Pray today for the families of the victims of 9/11. Pray today for the members of the armed services who are deployed to places of war. Pray today for their families and for the families of those who have lost sons, daughters, husbands and wives there. Pray today for those whose lives, homes, businesses, schools, families and land are torn apart by war. Pray today for the innocent civilians caught in the middle of the various conflicts. Pray today for the children. Pray today for peace, asking that it begins with you.
Pray again tomorrow.