Reflection on the Twenthieth Anniversay of 9-11
Family,
On Sunday, September 16, 2001, we sang this hymn in our worship service. It was written by Dick Jones in the days following the 9-11 attacks. It was sung to the tune of “Come Thou Long Expected Jesus.”
God’s Consolation
Verse 1
Eleven day into September, life has changed unalterably. Acts of terror make us remember bedrock truths we seldom see.
Now we seek your consolation, we who search to know you well. Come confirm your revelation, God with us, Emmanuel.
Verse 2
Through these days you haunt our living – life is shattered, faith denied. How can we ever be forgiving when so many souls have died?
Yet you persevere in blessing life for humanity. Caring deeply for all and stressing not what is, but what can be.
Verse 3
As the fabric of common living takes new shape before our eyes, we’ve been taught to be unforgiving – whom to hate and whom to prize.
Lift our sights to your perspective, help us sense your purpose for all. Let us live under your directive, let us answer with love your call.
Verse 4
So we live thru’ this mourning season – moving out from darkness to light. Only you can give us reason to pursue the ways that are right.
Fill us with your power and essence as we live our faith in life. Let us sense your faithful presence in our joys and in our strife.
(We will again sing this hymn as worship begins on Sunday, September 12, 2021.)
Jim H.
The LABC Re-gathering Task Force is again seeking your input in regard to our process. Your participation in the linked survey will be greatly appreciated.