This month will be the tenth anniversary of that tragic day September 11, 2001. Many of us remember that shortly after 9-11 people returned to church and even started attending for the first time in their lives. So, for the next few months there was an increase in churches across America. People were searching for answers to what had happened. They had seen with their eyes the collapse of buildings that they thought would always be there. What many people held to be a solid, stable images in their lives had collapsed. And they were left with questions on what is happening in the world and where our society headed?
Since that day there have been changes in the way we live our lives. We now use terms that were unknown before that day like Homeland Security and TSA. As a country we’ve become involved in Middle Eastern wars and other conflicts around the world. Life has changed for us and has brought with it a certain amount of uncertainty.
The history of the world is the story of great events that impact people and their lives. It’s not new that people are left wondering what will happen after traumatic events they have little control over. During the Reformation people believed that it was the end of the world. To those at that time the world didn’t appear as it had and many were convinced the end was near.
Martin Luther was approached by those wondering what would happen when the end came. He was in his garden doing work and his reply was very simple, “Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree.”
We can’t spend our time wringing our hands and wondering what will happen. Christ has told us He will always be with us during those challenges of our lives. When he appeared to them after his crucifixion — As they cowered in a locked room in fear of the world outside. He said to them, “peace” as He confirmed true peace by showing his pierced side and hands. There was no need to fear because He had conquered sin, death, and the devil.
During the next couple weeks the media will relive those 9-11 events with news stories and covering memorial services. People will again feel uncertain with those questions about what will happen. We, a believing community can be steadfast and remind those worried about uncertainty that there’s hope and stability. That despite the feelings of collapse we know that Jesus brings true peace to people’s lives.
Pastor Jerry
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