Midweek: Anniversary (2013)

Tomorrow marks the anniversary of the attacks of 9/11 (2001). There was a time it was known as Patriot Day. Other folks once referred to it as First Responders' Day. My phone's calendar has a big empty box. Lots of space for me to make notes about pick-up times or an end of season trip to the beach. No word about lives lost or the evil that was done that day. And while our short memories are disturbing, what is more disturbing is the churches that were full in those days now limp along, trying to keep the lights on. What is more disturbing is, those who put their trust in a holy God to provide comfort and guidance during difficult days are quite hellbent (literally) on living life their own way and even denying His existence.

I pray tomorrow's anniversary would be a call to many to remember not only the events of that tragic day, but to seek the God who was with us in our grief and shock. Please allow this reprint from 2013 to remind you of God's faithfulness.

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"Where were you?" 

There aren't too many of us who, on this day, need an explanation. Some were standing in line at Starbucks, manically checking their watches. Some were breathing a sigh of relief after waving a rowdy brood off on the school bus. Those of us from the night shift were slumbering blissfully. And others? Well, we know.

"But where was God?"

I have been asked that question a few times since 9/11. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. Hurricane Katrina. Moore, OK. Big theology for such a tiny blog. But here's how I see it.

He was on His throne, just where he was when the sun was peeking above the horizon that morning; when birds were trilling and the skies were bathed in color. He was keeping His eye on us, just as He was the day that really nice guy from the towing company helped you change that flat and get you to your sister's wedding in time. He was as generous as the day you bought that house for a steal, or found the $20 when you were low on gas. He was just as sovereign as the day you landed that great job, or got an A+ on your math test, or asked her to marry you (and she said "Yes!"). He had a plan, just as He did the day Hitler committed suicide in that bunker, or Nelson Mandela was born. He was with those who perished that day, just as He was the first time you heard the cry of your perfectly healthy baby boy. And He is with you today, even as you doubt His existence or His power or His love for you...just as He was the day you somehow decided He wasn't. 

So, when all the cool stuff was happening...

"Where were you?"