9/11 Like Rubble

Today, much like 11 years ago, has been a bright and sunny, fall-feeling, hope-inviting beginning to the day. On that day our family was up and at it with the normal daily routine. Music gathered for violin and piano lessons, breakfast done, preparing to leave, the phone rang."Turn on your TV, you are not going to believe what just happened," was the message.  It was 8 AM CST. What unfolded next was beyond immediate comprehension. At 8:03 AM CST the second plane flew into the second tower, another plane hit the pentagon, and if that wasn't enough a fourth plane went down in the fields of PA taking life, but sparing a gruesome attack on our nation's capitol.The towers fell in a heap of rubble. The rest is history.

I remember the days following the attack were full of confusion, uncertainty, and fear mingled with intense patriotism. American flags flew everywhere.  Candle light vigils were ongoing every night offering up prayers for missing family and friends as the country grieved and remained on high alert for another potential attack. Where would it be next, and how would it happen?

Many times, when life's trials and afflictions swirl around us, much like the days following 9/11, it is easy to have those same feelings of confusion and doubt. Where is God in this mess? Does God even care? Is there a way out of this?

Dear reading friend, I can say with great confidence yes, yes, and yes. Look to the rubble of 9/11 and see that the answer to our deepest need in the face of affliction is found in Christ alone.

... For he has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." So, we can confidently say, " The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?" Hebrew 13:5b-6. Add to that,

Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 1Peter 5:7. And let us not forget,

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

In the dark places of our lives we must choose to remember that God is good. He knows our frame. His promises are true. We can trust him in the 9/11 rubble of our lives.

Every Word of God proves true; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him. Proverbs 30:5.