This weekend marks the 10th anniversary of one of the most tragic days in American history. Most of us will always remember where we were and how we felt on that day. I was in a pastor’s meeting in Taylor. I remember calling Judy and literally crying, though I knew she was okay. I drove past a silent, unmoving Detroit airport. Everyone I met was solemn. Ben Negron called me and said we need to have a prayer time that evening. We did. And many others did as well. I remember the next day putting out American flags on our driveway. Nearly everyone honked their horns as they passed by in encouragement of our patriotism. Do you remember watching our representatives in Washington gathering together singing God Bless America? I remember hearing so many people ask for prayer for the families of those who died and for America. I remember a full house on Sunday. I remember watching the World Series that year. The New York Yankees were in it and they changed the 7th inning stretch song ‘Take me out the ballgame’ to ‘God Blessed America.’ Even America’s pastime recognized our dependence on God.
But now it is 10 years later. Some things haven’t changed. It seems when I see the airplanes hitting the towers, my emotions go right back to that day. I still hurt. I put out the flags on our driveway again this year. Time doesn’t change my patriotism. I love America. I still love my wife and children and call to hear their voices. We still have enemies. Just this week we learned of another threat against New York City and Washington. God is still the same. In tragedy it seems God is behind the scenes. But He is still behind the scenes, moving the scenery to accomplish His will for His glory and our good. His love for us is constant.
It is 10 year later and some things have definitely changed. This year the mayor of New York City has actively removed any religious activity or references. I hope the crowd starts singing ‘God Bless America’ anyway. Osama Bin Laden is no longer celebrating or hiding. His death this past summer emphasized America’s resolve that, despite transition of politics and leaders, we will vindicate the death our citizens. 6,234 men and women who were alive in 2011, have suffered death in Iraq and Afghanistan due to their military involvement in Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. We have not had another attack on American soil in 10 years and it is in great appreciation to our military that we continue to live in freedom. But the families who have sacrifices so much are different 10 years later. Our minds are consumed with the economy. 10 years ago our hearts were filled with love for one another and trust in God. May it not take another tragedy to drive us to our knees. 10 years ago my family was 6. Now we have 10. We’ve had 3 weddings and our first grandchild. 10 years later I’m called Pappaw. May God continue to bless America so that my grandchildren can grow up in a country that is free. May America be in a position of blessing so that my grandchildren will live with love not hate, peace not war, faith not fear. God bless America.
Greg Burdine's Blog 