19 years ago tomorrow, our nation reflects upon one of the most significant events that shaped the way many view our country today. A day that crosses my mind several times a year, although I never experienced it first-hand. When I enter into airports either flying domestically or internationally, I often think back to what it must have been like before 9/11. When TSA pushed less restrictions and the ease of flying was, what we would see now as, an ultimate luxury. I remember when I was in Elementary school writing a paper about the events that took place on 9/11, but the significance of it never truly resonated with me until I grew older. The many people that died during this short period of American history always leaves me stunned, and I always think of the many families who were truly left shattered because of the loss of a father, mother, son, daughter, grandparent, or grandchild. But what I remind myself of is the photograph of the cross among the rubble. What a powerful message that simple hunk of metal displays. The cross always stands and always overcomes, and no matter how destructive the trials may appear, the power of the cross always overcomes.
When I look at my American flag waving in the wind as I sit on my front porch, I begin to feel a sense of overall pride that floods my soul, and I always think about how I am proud to be an American. I’m proud at the fact that printed on our money is: “In God We Trust.” I’m proud at the fact that my nation is Under God, and is not above him, although many attempt to do so. I’m proud that I have the privilege to work, receive an education, and preach the Word of God without being persecuted, slandered, or killed by those who seek to tear down our country. I’m proud at the fact that our nation helps others in times of crisis, even when opposing forces see it seemingly impossible to do, yet persecute us for doing so. I’m proud at the fact that when I stand and recite the pledge of allegiance or sing the national anthem, a tear streams down my face as I proudly rest my hand over my heart. I’m proud that as Americans we have the accessibility of three principles: “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.” I’m proud at the fact that our government is elected, not appointed, and our President and leaders are chosen by the people, and not dictated to us by communist rule. I’m proud at the fact that families are encouraged, and that I smile when I see a proud father or mother pushing their beautiful young child in a stroller or carrying them in their arms. I’m proud at the fact that “everybody knows everybody”, we all treat neighbors with respect, help others in times of need, and deliver some food to others when we find out that we may have prepared a little too much! But what makes me the proudest is that God has truly blessed our country. We take so much for granted. Our homes, our food, our occupations, and our lives are all simply overlooked because we often find ourselves wanting things our way, or desiring more than we already have. America, it’s time we come back together, come down on our knees, and come back to God. I’m tired of the disunity, I’m sick of the hatred, and I’m growing weary of what our news channels report. I have my own beliefs and opinions, but I never look down on someone because their beliefs differ from mine, or grow hatred towards others because they may support an opposing viewpoint. It’s not about us, but rather it’s all about what brings glory and honor to God. So I encourage you tomorrow, as you go about your day, take a moment to say “Thank you Lord for what you’ve brought us through.” I’m always amazed at the things we take for granted. Never take your freedom, your family, or your life for granted. Everything is a blessing from God. It is my prayer today that God continues to bless the USA. I believe Lee Greenwood’s song is right:
“If tomorrow all the things were gone I worked for all my life And I had to start again With just my children and my wife I thank my lucky stars To be living here today 'Cause the flag still stands for freedom And they can't take that away
And I'm proud to be an American Where at least I know I'm free And I won't forget the men who died Who gave that right to me And I'd gladly stand up next to you And defend Her still today 'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land God Bless the U.S.A.”
I beg you, thank God for today, for the many blessings that He has gifted to you, and always remember that God blesses us so that we may be a blessing. May God bless you, your family, and may God bless the U.S.A!
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