THE TWIN TOWERS OF NEW YORK

Like myself, many of you watched the 25th anniversary of the bombing of the Twin Towers in New York.

For many of us, the memories remain remarkably vivid. The smoke rising over New York, the people who never came home that day, and the first responders running toward the danger, are the things I cannot forget.  

As Christians, we have an opportunity to reflect on what grief teaches us and the importance of forgiveness and hope. In Matthew 5:4, Jesus teaches us, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”  

Nearly 3,000 people died that day and many continue to die from the physical effects from that disaster.  We are taught that every human life has value because we are all created in the image of God. In Genesis 1:27 it says, God created mankind in his own image.

We remember those near and dear to my heart, which are the Firefighters, EMTʻs, Paramedics and Police Officers that ran toward the danger, in an attempt to help people escape the inferno, while others ran away from it.  John 15:13 says “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” During the filming of the incident, I witnessed many people putting the needs of others ahead of their own!  Heroʻs, every single one!

September 11th reminded me of the vicious, destructive power of hatred. I must admit I felt hatred that day, and am still very intolerant of those who want to hurt innocent people or strive to destroy my country. A Pastor once told me I must always guard my heart against hatred and vengeance.  Romans 1:21 says “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”  

As Christians we know that our security is not found in buildings, governments or our own strength. Our hope is found solely in God and Christ Jesus who gave His life for usl Psalm 46:1 says “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”

AMEN!

Kent Patton, Operations Manager