Today we remember the terrifying, evil, destructive attack on our country and on our well-being. We remember the four hijacked airlines that brought down the two World Trade Centers and a portion of the Pentagon (the fourth plowed into the Pennsylvania countryside – Todd Beamer’s “Let’s Roll”). What a momentous morning for the United States! What a series of events that have radically changed our country and thinking.
Since that morning we have been at war in at least two arenas and somewhat in a few other places (Africa). [We remember the ultimate price paid by our Matthew, along with Joel Cahill and Caleb Nelson – and their families. Thank you, Mel and Monica, for raising a fine son committed to serving others – serving us!] Our flight experiences have been drastically impacted with TSA, shoes and scanners. Our national debt has been greatly impacted by more governmental agencies and increased workloads on the pre-existing agencies. Also, a result of 9/11 is the debate or fight over immigration (one of the main arguments is that a loose border allows terrorists to slide in to dwell among us). Yes, we have been changed because of 9/11.
Impacted in a more profound way is the psyche of the country. We thought we were protected by two great oceans. We lived somewhat above the fears and evils of the world – but no more! The 9/11 attack brought on finger pointing and polarizing of peoples around viewpoints. Conflicting points include: Are we safer by helping, serving, and compromising (strike a deal with Iran and not engage ISIS) or are we safer with more ships and drones? We have greater fears, less confidence, and more anger which seem to be deepening monthly.
Yes, September 11, 2001 changed us.
And what lies ahead?
As things are – fear, anger, and division – we can likely expect more of the same with even greater intensity. While we have weakened, slowed and even stopped the enemy that would bomb and terrorize us, we know that their bent is unaltered and they will strike again. We know that there are many working very hard to protect us, yet they are not all-knowing, nor all-wise, nor all-powerful and the evil will slip in somewhere. We live under a dark cloud.
However, if there would be a return to and embracing of “One nation under God” and “In God we trust”, God might be pleased to restore civility, peace and confidence that we once enjoyed (II Chronichles 7:14). If we would draw near to God, God could again be our rear-guard and our sure defense.
May a brokenness and trust before God begin anew in this country – may it begin with those who are truly His – may it begin with us – me!
a PK Musing 
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