Growing up, September 11th was always a known day in our house. It's my mothers birthday. I can honestly say I really don't remember any of my mom's birthdays except September 11, 2001. How can any of us forget? I remember having the news on that morning like I did every morning. I sat down on the end of the bed as the coverage started. I was watching as the second plane hit. It was a shock! I kept thinking, "not here, not on U.S. soil." I told Jon what was happening. We both stopped to watched.
It was a very different phone call that morning when I called to wish my mom a happy birthday. We talked about what we were watching on the news and how it was on every channel. One of the things I have thought about each year since was this: My parents were hosting an exchange student from Brazil. Her mom called and wanted to talk to her to be sure everything was OK. Mom went to the school and brought her home. I can't imagine what was going through her parents minds. When we got to the house, she sat and watched with great concern with us. I sat with my parents, my two little boys, and a dear friend from Brazil. We just could not believe what we were seeing. The news coverage just kept going from New York to Washington D.C. to Pennsylvania. The air traffic was stopped. The phone lines were all busy. We were unable to make or receive any international phone calls. From that day on, life, as we knew it changed. Backpacks are now searched at amusement parks and pro ball games. We now have to tell our loved ones goodbye before we reach the terminal at the airport.
I personally did not know anyone with a direct connection to those who lost their lives 10 years ago. I still feel a deep whole in my heart for them as if I did know them. I will never forget the rescue workers who so selflessly gave at all cost. True examples of what a hero is. I remember the way that this horrific tragedy united our blessed country. The feeling of pride every time I see our beautiful flag; the respect I have when I see any type of rescue worker; the way everyone prayed.
Today, my family was invited to minister in music at another church. Although my children are too young to remember 9/11 or a pre 9/11 world they led a patriotic medley. I cried as I saw them play and heard them sing in honor of this great nation on such a day as this. I had the responsibility of telling them about the history of today. With attentive ears they listened and even watched some of the original footage. They saw a re-enactment of what was believed to take place on Flight 93. So many heroes on that one flight.
May we always remember how blessed this nation is. May we always tell our loved ones that we love them. With no guarantee of tomorrow may we never let the sun set on our wrath. May we share with the next generation the Christianity upon which this great nation was founded. May we daily be looking for people to share the story of the greatest rescue worker, JESUS CHRIST, and how He gave His life so we could be rescued from this life.
With a thankful heart, take time to pray for this nation, the leaders of this nation, and the future of this nation. God has shed His grace on America and His truth is marching on!
Investing in Eternity,
Jenny
