Where were you 21 years ago today?

As we remember the horrific scenes, and as we mourn the lives lost, from the attacks on our nation 21 years ago, can we also remember that in the days that followed we didn’t identify as White, Black, Hispanic, Native American, Asian, male, female, straight, gay, Christian, Jew, Muslim, Hindu, rich, poor, Republican, Democrat, and whatever other ways we have become divided. No, in spite of our differences, we came together as Americans.

Can we do that again? Can we tell the politicians, the media, and the rest who continue to work to divide us, to take a long walk off a short pier? Can we once again reach out to our neighbors, look past our differences and work together?
Can we admit that just maybe it begins with each of us. Maybe it begins with me.

Lately I have been continually reminded of 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NLT)
Then if my people who are called by my name will HUMBLE THEMSELVES and PRAY and SEEK MY FACE and TURN FROM their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.

This is just one verse of a longer passage where the Israelites have been warned of the cost of turning away from God. May I be so bold as to point out that it doesn’t say that everyone should pray. It doesn’t call on politicians to turn away from their wicked ways. This is a command for GOD’S PEOPLE, those of us who profess to believe in and worship the living God. WE are called to humble ourselves. WE are commanded to pray. WE are commanded to seek the face of our Creator. WE are commanded to turn from our wickedness.

It starts with us. It starts with me.