where was God?

Today in the One Year Bible, we read from 2 Corinthians 12:1-10. Paul tells us about being caught up into heaven and seeing things that no man can describe (whether in his body or not, he keeps repeating that he doesn't know... only God knows.)

Eighteen years ago today, a horrible attack was perpetrated against the world. Some very evil people took over four planes and crashed them into things, killing thousands of people and terrorizing the world. And there are some who honestly scratch their heads in a situation like this and ask, "Where was God?"

It's a good question, and anyone who asks it honestly will get an even better answer. God was everywhere on 9/11. He prevented dozens of people from going to work that day, and their lives were spared. He was with those who died, giving them grace and peace in the midst of horror. He was with the first responders who bravely faced terrible danger to save the people that they could, and many of whom died in the attempt. No greater love does anyone have than to lay down his life for his friend. He has been with every one of us since then, healing our hearts and minds, and giving us the courage to live fearlessly in a world that gives us so many reasons to be afraid.

And one day, we will be taken into heaven, like Paul, and we will see things that will make 9/11 seem like nothing. The joy we have then will put 9/11 and Auschwitz to shame.

God, thanks for being the answer we need in desperate times like 9/11/01.