Speechless

Hello long time ago friends.

I haven't been writing because of some unfortunate health issues over the past few months.  What makes today different?  I'm am gripped in sadness at what I see on the news today and wanted to journal the fewest of thoughts I can muster together to have on my blog...forever.

First I will say this, I will never forget the emotions that laid a hold of me on 9/11.  Second, I never stopped praying for those whose eyes are covered by a veil of hatred -- no matter if it presented itself as religion or justice.

I never rejoiced in Saddam's death.

Nor do I rejoice in the news I received this morning.

Terrorism did not die with Osama. I'm grateful that justice has been served but I do not celebrate in the death...of anyone.

So here are my Nine Little Words for today:

Eternal separation from Almighty God should never be celebrated.

Remember that:

 ⁴ Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵ It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. ⁶ Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. ⁷ It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. (1 Corinthians 13:4-7, New International Version, ©2011)

So I ask you to be different from the rest of the world who celebrated when our brothers and sisters, mothers and fathers, sons and daughters died as a result of the attack on our country -- whether civilian or military.  Honor their memories by understanding that for their families, their lives will never be "normal".  The death of Osama may bring a sense of justice but it doesn't change the past.

Pray for us and the rest of the world.

¹ First, I tell you to pray for all people, asking God for what they need and being thankful to him.² Pray for rulers and for all who have authority so that we can have quiet and peaceful lives full of worship and respect for God. (1 Timothy 2:1-2, New Century Version)

Pray for grace, mercy, and peace.  That all peoples of the world may learn and know the love of one, true, holy and just God.

Blessings for your day.