September 11, a day of...celebrating?

This past Sunday, we had church in the park. We gathered to hear the wonderful worship music of The Lawrence Family, listened to a 9/11 Tribute from Steve Williams, ate a never-ending (until it was all gone, of course) potluck picnic, had a cupcake competition and a softball game (oldies vs punks), and, best of all, had some amazing fellowship.

Of course it may have seemed like an odd day for a church picnic - it was, honestly, supposed to be a day of solemn remembrance. So why were we celebrating?

As Steve said, if we don't continue with our lives, if we stop praising the Lord, the terrorists win. So for exactly that reason, we celebrated our Lord and Savior that day.

It was, undoubtedly, a tragedy which struck our nation on September 11, 2011. Of every person you speak to, no one will tell you that this was a good thing. And while we certainly mourned the loss of those who lost their lives that day, we also memorialized the bravery of the folks who commandeered United Airlines Flight 93 and attempted to land the plane before it reached it's target in D.C. We remembered and praised the bravery of the rescue workers. We remembered the day.

But then we rejoiced - we rejoiced in our Lord that all things are good. Take a look at the scripture below.

Paul tells us to be anxious for nothing! While we must never forget 9/11, we must also never forget that God takes care of us. Don't worry, pray! A friend posted this quote by an unknown author on her Facebook: "Sorrow looks back, worry looks around, FAITH looks up." We will praise Jesus and come together with thanksgiving.

Lord, I am grateful that no matter what evil occurs, You are always here as my rock and my guiding light. You pour out your Love so that I also may show love to those around me. Thank you Lord, not only for all You do, but for who You are!