In Remembrance of 7 years ago

I received an email devotion from Andy Stoddard today, who is a friend of mine from seminary and pastor of Ripley First UMC. It was a 9/11 prayer. I wanted to pass it along today as our Thought of the Day!! As we remember the tragedy of 7 years ago, may we continue to heal and strengthen and carry the love of Christ forward in a love-starved world.

In the love of Christ,
greg


Today is the 7th Anniversary of the attacks of September 11. In remembrance of this tragedy, I share with you a prayer that I have found. May we remember this day, remember those that gave so much, and pray for all that put themselves in way of harm for their country.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Today is a difficult day. The memories are painful and some of the wounds I fear may never heal. Yet I pray you will help me to go on living for truth, firm in my hope of your salvation. May I live for you, Lord, and by doing so, be an example to my friends and family. I pray, just like Jesus, I may learn obedience through these things that I have suffered. Help me not to question why, yet even if I do, give me courage to continue to trust you. Help me take the comfort and strength you've poured into my life and use it to comfort and strengthen others who need hope.

I pray I might become a better person and help make the world a better place because of this terrible event. Thank you for the heroes that gave so sacrificially on September 11. Help me to remember their courage and learn from them. I want my life to be worthy of you Lord, so make of it what you desire, and use me to fulfill your purposes. May the evil of that day cause me and my family to work harder to do good on this Earth and to bring your light into the dark places. Help me to never stop believing in you and living my life for you.

Lord, heal all those who were crushed and broken on that day. May they come to experience your presence and know your peace.

Amen.