Remembering, Reflecting, Responding

This week our nation once again paused to remember and reflect on the memories of 9/11.  Most of the students who are juniors in high school were not even born when the airplane crashes occurred in 2001.  Thus, the day is one for not only remembering, but also teaching another generation about the events of the day.  It has been encouraging to see school children and their parents and teachers honor, celebrate, and thank the first responders in their communities with notes, posters, treats, and words of thanks and encouragement for what they do to invest in their community.  First responders have also found ways to honor their own.

A post by Elizabeth S. Gray also caused a time to reminisce.  “I miss 9/12.  I would never want another 9/11, but I miss the America of 9/12.  Stores ran out of flags to sell because they were being flown everywhere.  People were Americans before they were upper/lower class, Jewish/Christian, Republican/Democrat.  We hugged people without caring if they ate at Chick-fil-A or wore Nikes.  On 9/12, what mattered more was what united us, than what divided us.”

And the churches were full on 9/11 and the months following.  This week we’ve remembered, reflected, and now it’s time to once again respond.  May we each choose to do our part in letting God’s love and light shine through us in all we say and do so that all people from every nation, tribe, and language are offered the opportunity to have a relationship with Jesus, the Prince of Peace.

Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.

Psalm 34:14

Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil, but those who promote peace have joy.

Proverbs 12:20

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.  He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever.  The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.

Isaiah 9:6-7

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

Matthew 5:9

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world.”

John 16:33

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

Romans 12:18

After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.  They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.

Revelation 7:9