After the Storm

Wisconsin, double rainbow sighting 9/11/23

The LORD is compassionate and gracious,
    slow to anger, abounding in love. Psalm 103:8

 September 11, 2023 marked the 22^nd anniversary of the tragic events of 9/11. Do you remember where you were on that fateful day full of grief and courage? Can you still feel the fear, helplessness, and anger as well as the love, gratitude, and beauty that rose from the sacrifices of those who helped?

My memory about that day is vivid. While getting ready for a play date with my best friend and our toddlers, the phone rang. My friend told me to go turn on the TV and canceled our play date. I called my husband into the family room, and we turned on the TV trying to figure out what was happening as both of the Twin Towers were burning. Shortly after we turned on the TV, the South Tower fell. I will never forget the horror and confusion of that moment. It was a day we should always remember. So we mark this day each year with remembrance, honor, and prayer.

On September 11, 2023 something special happened. Friends shared double rainbows appearing here and around the country. But the most amazing sight was the vivid double rainbow spanning the sky from One World Trade to the Empire State Building. One resident said, “It feels like a message to everyone that’s still here. The world can be beautiful, even in times of mourning and grief.”

Rainbows are the blessing of God’s love and hope that promise calm and peace after the storm. We need these reminders. God is with us. Lean on the promise and into God’s abounding love in and after the storms of life. Day by day we can shine the light of God’s compassion, grace, patience, and love into the ashes of the past to make a better today and tomorrow.

 Shine on, Pastor Andrea

A 9/11 Prayer of Hope and Healing by Paige DeRuyscher

Dear Loving Father,

We pause to remember the great losses and courageous acts of September 11th. We lift up those who are still affected -- families of the victims, first responders, and all who were involved. We pray for the light of Christ to flood the hearts of people everywhere. We believe You redeem Your creation, and we trust that beauty will continue to come from the ashes of those dark days. Surround us with Your mighty angels of protection, give us compassion for one another in all of life’s circumstances, and instill in us the courage to answer Your call. Amen.