Friends in Christ Message for September 21, 2001

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Friends in Christ Weekly Message
September 21, 2001

I wish that my eyes were fountains of tears, so I could cry day and night for my people who were killed.
Jeremiah 9:1 (CEV*)

It now appears that about 7,000 people were killed in the terrorist actions on September 11 and in the rescue efforts since. In our area at least, it seems that almost everyone lost someone close to them or knows someone who did.

As the prophet Jeremiah mourned for the loss of lives among his people, it is appropriate for us to mourn this loss of many innocent lives. Our hearts respond to the pain and loss around us.

But it is not enough to mourn. We need to reach out in love. We can comfort those we know who lost people close to them, and provide whatever practical support we can. We can assist the rescue operations, and the efforts to provide for the needs of survivors - like scholarship funds for children who lost one or both parents. We can come to the aid of those who are facing harassment because of their national origin, faith or looks.

Having seen what hate can do, let us show what love can do. May we be more present and more compassionate to each person we encounter, being a living example of Christ's love in the world.

And last, but certainly not least, let us be faithful and fervent in prayer. Let us pray for those most directly affected by the deaths and destruction. Let us pray for those working so hard in the rescue operations. Let us pray for our political leaders that they follow God's direction as they respond to this crisis.

Bill Samuel