Marking Twenty-Five Years

Today, we remember one of the most defining days in our nation's history. Although a quarter-century has passed, the attacks on September 11, 2001, remain vivid in our memories. The promise we made in the days that followed—never to forget—becomes more challenging as a new generation grows up and some lawmakers and educators attempt to alter the history of that day.

While stories of bravery and heroism from that fateful day continue to inspire us, the reality of the tragedy still weighs heavily on our hearts. According to reports from the CDC, Reuters, and other sources, more individuals have died from illnesses linked to the Ground Zero area after 9/11 than the number of victims who lost their lives on that day. These findings indicate that more than 9,400 people—three times the 2,977 individuals who died on September 11—have succumbed to health issues related to exposure to the toxic environment at and around Ground Zero.

Also, there are thousands of first responders, city workers, and residents who continue to struggle with illnesses related to 9/11. This serves as a reminder that some wounds from that day are not visible, and many battles persist long after the headlines fade and anniversaries pass. Perhaps what often gets lost in the news coverage is the grief that the families of 9/11 still carry from that painful day.  

Although the reality of this unimaginable tragedy is difficult to revisit, we hold on to the hope and resolve that comes from looking to God for refuge and strength. Psalm 46:1 declares, "God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble."

In the aftermath of September 11th, our country was reminded of the importance of seeking "God's refuge and strength." The national pause for prayer and reliance on God was not just an emotional reaction. The gathering of 150 members of Congress—both Democrats and Republicans, including House members and Senators—on the east front steps of the U.S. Capitol for a moment of silence, followed by a spontaneous singing of "God Bless America," was not merely political theater. Rather, it represented a nation at its lowest point, shaken to its core, with the only reasonable response being to look to the Lord for help.

Twenty-five years later, we still need to look to the Lord, and the prosperity of our nation will depend on whether we seek His refuge and strength, not only on the tough days but every day to follow.

May God bless the memory of those who perished in the 911 attacks. May we keep our promise to the next generation and to generations to come: never forget. May we continue to hold in the highest regard the heroes who put their lives on the line to save others on that day.

May we remain vigilant against politicians who share the ideologies of the terrorists responsible for these attacks. And may we strive to be a nation that puts its trust in the Lord our God.