September 11 will always be a reminder to me of that eventful day in 2001. It started like any other day, but it ended like no other in American history. An earlier generation had Pearl Harbor, my generation had the day JFK was assassinated, and our contemporary generation has 9-11.
It was a day of tragedy, fear, and terror. Though the events of that day are now a memory, we may find ourselves facing a day of terror. It may not be a national crisis, but it surely can become a personal or family crisis. What should we do? I will share two principles I shared with my congregation on the Sunday following 9-11-01 from 1 Peter 3:14-15.
“But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:” (1 Peter 3:14-15)
1. Prioritize your Heart
When tragedy strikes, it’s amazing how our true priorities come to the surface. Our hearts and minds are concerned about the things and people that are really important. Peter encourages us to make sure we place Jesus at the center of our heart. Make Him our priority. When Jesus is at the center of your heart, the fears of the outside aren’t nearly as intimidating. Put Jesus First!
A young Navy ensign was given the opportunity to display his ability at getting the ship under way. He made the orders effectively and efficiently. In fact, the deck was abuzz with talk about a new record for getting a destroyer under way. He was a bit surprised to hear a radio message from the captain – “My personal congratulations upon completing your underway preparation exercise according to the book with amazing speed. In your haste, however, you have overlooked one of the unwritten rules – Make sure the captain is aboard before getting under way.”
Make sure you have Jesus as the captain of your life and soul.
2. Open your Mouth
Times of tragedy raise questions. Why did this happen? What’s going to happen to us? We either ask the question or have the answer. The follower of Jesus has the answer in Him. We may not be able to answer the little questions, but we sure know the answer to the big, important questions – Jesus. When a tragedy strikes, we have an open opportunity to share Christ.
Cedarville College president Paul Dixon shared a story of a high school girl he met while speaking. She wanted to make a difference in her school and asked God to give her opportunity. The next day, one of her teachers was fed up with the way things were going and said, “I’ve had it! I’m tired of the hassle of teaching kids who don’t have any respect. If any of you can tell me what life is all about and what our purpose is, go ahead.” Surprised, the girl raised her hand and explained that she had found answers to thsoe questions in Jesus Christ. The teacher, an agnostic, invited her to stay after class and explain her beliefs. The girl suggested she attend an evangelistic event and that night he put his trust in Jesus as Savior. When terror hits, point people to the only answer – Jesus.
Whether you are facing cancer, a marriage is crumbling, struggling through financial difficulties, broken friendship, loss of job, rebellious child, lied and mistreated at work or belittled at school, you need to turn to Christ. He is your only source of strength.
Where were you on 9/11? What helped you deal with the fears of that day?