God is our Refuge and Strength

God is our refuge and strength,

an ever-present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear, though

the earth give way and the mountains

fall into the heart of the sea.

           Psalm 46:1-2 NKJV

 

     The horror of September 11, 2001, is forever etched in the memories of all who watched as planes flew into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Our eyes watched what our minds could not comprehend. For days, evil encroached into every corner of our lives.

 

     Along with the evidence of evil, we heard the story of strength and courage as passengers on yet another flight fought their attackers and gave their lives in order to save others as their plane crashed into a field short of its intended target.

     During the days and weeks following September 11^th, America came together and prayed. Broken hearts and ruined lives drew people to churches around the nation. Heritage seemed less important than camaraderie as people of all races and ancestry gathered to help others and pray for the families of those thousands who were murdered.

     But, with the passing of time, the spiritual energy faded and for most life returned to normal. Churches once again held empty pews and division by race and politics took on new life.

     Now on each September 11^th, we hold our collective breath waiting for the day to end and praying for the safety of our nation. We ask our government to protect us. We fear they cannot. But there is One whom we can turn to in every situation. As a nation, we remembered Him on September 11, 2001. I pray we will come together as a nation once again and remember.

     God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in time of trouble.

 

©Joyce Powell

9.11.13