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Friday, September 9, 2011

nine eleven

Nine eleven. Simple numbers no more. This is "the" defining moment of my generation. Just as those before me remember November 22, 1963 or Dealey, Texas or Lee Harvey Oswald. Just as those of the "greatest generation" remember December 7, 1941 or Pearl Harbor. That one day that stands as "life before" and "life after."
'I Remember September 11th' photo (c) 2005, Rebel Roundeye - license: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/
My sons remember 9-11. Nathan, the oldest, knows that it marks the day our family changed forever. (I've shared that before -- if interested, click here or here or here.) Ben remembers, but he was only four then... it's not "the" defining moment in his life.

My daughter, sweet Ellie, wasn't born yet. She is learning about it at school. "Mom, did you know that some people do not like America, I mean the United States?" (I do.) "Did you hear about the bad men who used an airplane to blow up a big, giant, tall building in New York City?" (I did.) "A whole lot of people died. That's sad." (It is.) The events of 9-11 will not be her defining moment...

Then I remember Jesus' words, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)


On 9-11, I didn't understand. I knew Jesus. I'd accepted him as my savior -- yep. Signed, sealed, delivered. Heaven-bound. But, I didn't understand that He wanted to give me more. Peace. Abundant, life-filling peace. To weather any storm this earthly life might bring.
So 9-11 came. I fell apart... completely. Until...


I met Jesus, finally as friend, comforter, encourager and guide. The Jesus who died on the cross not just for my sins, but for all of me. I got to know The One who loves unconditionally and never gives up or grows weary. I discovered his peace. And trusting in Him, I now have a life filled with joy.


In this world, we will have trouble. But Jesus -- He has overcome the world. 


While I wish 9-11 had never happened, I pray that everyone touched by that day will discover the same love, joy and peace that comes in a relationship with Jesus -- a genuine, loving friendship that cannot be destroyed -- even by "bad men." Friends, He HAS overcome the world. Rejoice.


Love,

7 comments:

Mandi said...

Neither of my children were born when 9/11 defined our generation. My daughter started kindergarten this year and I wonder what they are teaching her about it right now.

A friend of mine asked her class what the significance of 9/11 was/is and a little boy answered, "that's the day the music died". Pretty powerful stuff.

Visiting from the weekend hop, already following!

Mandi
Smile and Mama With Me

laughwithusblog said...

Definitely a day I will never forget. Yes he has overcome the world!

Janice said...

How thankful I am that in the midst of the pain we can lean on the Lord. Thanks for sharing.

Unknown said...

This is such an awesome post! Very inspirational. This afternoon I wrote a post about 9/11. I know what it is to lose someone close to me so I pray that those who have lost loved ones will be comforted. I am from Jamaica and a new Follower of your Blog from the Sit & Relax Weekend Hop. Take care and God Bless.
Judy - JUDY H-J'S THOUGHTS

-d said...

Karen, I still remember your call from NC that morning; you had just moved there, knew few people there, and called me for prayers of comfort and peace. Wished so much I could give you a hug and provide a place of familiarity for you.

Karen Dawkins said...

D -
I sat in my car -- the only place I had cell reception. Your frequent calls and your visit (during a tough time in my life) were a huge part of what kept me going until I got my feet back under me -- and my heart right with God.

I love you!!!! And am always grateful you were there.
Love,
Karen

The Family that Laughs Together said...

It made as all sit back and cherish life.