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 In Remembrance of Our Nation
In Crisis
 The
tragic events of September 11, 2001 have had a profound effect upon
our nation and its people. We recall and relive the anger, grief,
and sadness the appalling terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center
and the Pentagon produced in us. This day of infamy will remain in
our collective memory for a very long time.
We mourn those who died so tragically in the stunning assault upon our fellow citizens and upon our government. They were murdered as they went about their business in the workplace, not as combatants in a war, or as soldiers on the field of battle. We honor those who gave their lives sacrificially in service to the injured and wounded. The courageous men who rushed into the jaws of danger to help those, who without assistance, would surely have perished, deserve our honor and our admiration. We celebrate the bravery and unselfish service of the men and women of the fire and police departments and other service organizations who made such a difference on that terrible day and the weeks and months following. Southern Baptists from all over the nation poured themselves out in service to the injured and broken people who were the direct victims of these attacks. We knew that though we could not reverse the horrid events, we could relieve the pain and suffering of those most directly affected. As we approach the first anniversary of that terrible day, it is appropriate that we commemorate this time with thoughtful reflection and renewed dedication to God. We have a deep and profound need to call upon God. In the days immediately following the cowardly attack, millions gave evidence of returning to God. Churches were filled, many people spoke openly of their faith, and an observable upsurge of courtesy and consideration was seen in the ordinary passages of our daily lives. In the days since, however, there has been a return to the ordinary, and many of our fellow citizens who seemed to have taken spiritual lessons from that dreadful classroom appear to have sunk back into spiritual indifference. The Scripture says in II Chronicles 7:14: "If My people, who are called by My name, humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." I believe God is prepared to do in our time just as he promised in the ancient time that promise was made. This is a perfect time for authentic renewal in the house of the Lord. Let Christians lead the way for our national kinsmen, sincerely repenting and humbly walking with God. We urge our Southern Baptist family of believers to recommit themselves
to the Lord, and to pray diligently and sincerely for our President
and his cabinet, and for the military men and women who are put
into harm's way for the sake of our beloved nation. A prayer guide is available to assist those who will commit to this investment of time and spiritual energy. The Lord said, "Men ought always to pray, and not to faint." Now - together, join us in this holy work! Click here to see a list of our prayer partners. |
