Hey, Reader

Today, in the United States, is a day of remembrance as we remember the lives lost in the terror attacks on 9/11/2001.

I was deployed on a supply ship in the Indian Ocean when I saw the terror attacks on the news. It was dinner time and the news was the only thing we could all agree on to watch each day during meals.

It was surreal day and I had only been a commissioned naval officer for 4 months.

My job that day was to reassure my sailors and prepare them for the uncertainty that would come next.

So, on the 25th anniversary of such a pivotal point in American and world history, I still find it difficult to hold back tears.

But after the pain and shock of the attacks came unity and solidarity in a way this country desperately needs again.

Not because we need another terror attack, that would be insane.

We need to remember what makes this country and the experiment it was born under so powerful.

As Christians, our hope is in Jesus and God is the ultimate arbiter. Unfortunately, living in a broken world means we often suffer the consequences of others' evil behavior.

On days like today, I take extra time to pray and thank God for the valleys and mountaintops because they make us who we are and shape our faith.

And while it's easy to look at the division in this country and despair, remember this:

"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places." - Ephesians 6:12, ESV

This is my memory verse for the week. I hope it serves you well.

I pray you have a wonderful and safe weekend.

God bless,

Wendy