For the first time I have opportunity to share with you after the horrible
events of last Tuesday. My mind says our world fundamentally changed. My
routine says nothing changed. My understanding says the changes barely have
begun. My personal history says it was a horrible event, but the worst is
over. My world awareness says the event has worldwide significance. My
complacency says it was deeply regrettable, but life will continue as
always. One part of me knows the situation is incredibly complex; another
part of me oversimplifies all aspects of the situation.
I must struggle with conflicting realities. Each reality has elements of
truth, but those realities often are in fundamental conflict. I watch our
nation function in contradictory ways. Frequently those contradictions also
consume me. The "before Tuesday, September 11" and the "after Tuesday,
September 11" astound me.
"Before," this nation was so pleasure, money, and individual freedom centered
that it was irreligious. "Confine religion to religious buildings. Do not
share your religion with anyone!" "After," congress prays on the Capitol
steps. Five presidents and countless dignitaries assemble in a cathedral
for a prayer service. An emotional coach of the New York Jets professional
football team made astounding statements. He said if our nation needed
diversion last Sunday, go to church and pray. He said there could be no
better national diversion than every citizen attending church and praying.
"Before," NATO nations constantly quarreled in their alliance. China viewed
us as their greatest enemy. Russia regarded us with grave suspicion.
"After," NATO unified. China was sympathetic. Russian citizens cried as
they brought flowers to impromptu memorial sites, and their leaders pledged
cooperation.
Around the globe stunned democratic nations held memorials and declared
support. At the British "changing of the guard" ceremonies, protocol
changed in historically unique ways. Among the changes: they played our
national anthem. Could it be that people soberly realized current western
civilization was threatened?
Our President declared the attack an act of war. That act of war killed
over 5,000 innocent civilians. So we declared war against evil. I read of
the panic in Afghanistan among innocent parents and children. In
indescribable poverty, they desperately attempt to leave their country.
Their experiences are also horrible. If they die, is that also an act of
evil? I read of terroristic violence American citizens commit against
American citizens of suspected Arab descent. Does justice function through
acts of injustice? Is it "good" if "we" do it to "them," but "evil" if
"they" do it to "us"?
Throughout history, moments of great crisis produce events of great evil.
Events of great evil produce incredible opportunities for good. In days of
deep darkness Christ's light can shine the brightest. May we each have the
faith and courage to reflect His light in the days, weeks, and months of
deep darkness ahead. Tragedy creates opportunity.
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