we remember…

Girders in the shape of a cross, preserved from the wreckage of the World Trade Center (WTC), stand over the WTC site in New York September 10, 2004. New York City plans to mark the third anniversary of the attacks on the trade center with an observance at the site on September 11 with parents and grandparents of victims reading their names. The American flag is reflected on the surface of the new 7 World Trade Center Building, under construction, at rear. The original 7 World Trade Center, which stood at the same location, burned and collapsed in the attack three years ago. — Girders in the shape of a cross, preserved from the wreckage of the World Trade Center (WTC), stand over the WTC site in New York September 10, 2004. The American flag is reflected on the surface of the new 7 World Trade Center Building, under construction, at rear.

Dear Lord, as we remember the evils of September 11th, let us turn our hearts and minds towards the good found only in You;
Be close to those who mourn: the parents who lost children, the children who never knew a parent, and all who lost a loved one;
Embrace this grieving nation, and let time never lessen the impact of this day; may we never forget;
Protect those who go in harm’s way to save others, and those who suffer and die to safeguard our nation;
Give wisdom to our leaders, that they may make choices that prevent another day such as this;
Convert the hearts of those who seek our destruction, and banish from the world the darkness that allows such hate to fester and grow;
Let Your love rain down upon us, and let Your peace flourish on the Earth;
All these things we ask in the name of Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

~Thomas L. McDonald