Tag: god

Remembering September 11, 2001: Finding Faith, Hope, and Resilience in the Face of Tragedy

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On September 11, I always take the day off. I want to be in a peaceful quiet place praying. It is a day I both mourn and celebrate. –Genelle Guzman-McMillan, 9/11 Survivor

Where were you on September 11, 2001?

Every year on the anniversary of this catastrophic day, my mind goes back to that day when much about the world changed forever. I was sitting with a church member in her home, planning a memorial service for her husband, who had passed the night before. As we discussed details, a family member asked me to step into the kitchen, where she tearfully pointed to the TV. I watched in disbelief as the first plane crashed into the World Trade Center. My heart sank. I returned to the family, led them in prayer, and included our nation in my pleas, not yet aware of the unfolding catastrophe.

I hurried back to the church, where our staff had gathered in my study. Together, we watched as the second plane struck. After a few moments of shock and sorrow, we shifted into ministry mode, strategizing ways to support our congregation and community. As news continued to break, we learned of church members with family in New York or Washington, travelers in the affected areas, and those serving in the armed forces. We were all connected in some way to this tragedy, bound together in grief and prayer.

Twenty-three years later, the memories are still vivid and painful. We remember the fear, the uncertainty, the overwhelming sense of loss. But as followers of Christ, we also remember the source of our strength: our faith in God. Psalm 46:1 reminds us that “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Though faith doesn’t shield us from tragedy, it guides us through it, giving us hope in a world that so often feels broken.

What can we learn as we navigate the crossroads of our haunting memories and our persistent faith? How do we move forward as followers of Jesus in a post-9/11 world?

  1. Our security is found in God. Our faith serves as an anchor. Psalm 46:1 reminds us that God is our refuge and strength, especially in times of trouble. Even amid disaster, we can trust in God’s sustaining presence.

  2. Refuse to live in fear.  II Timothy 1:7 reminds us that “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.” Fear shouldn’t dictate our actions or hold us back from fulfilling God’s call.

  3. Avoid responding to violence with violence. We cannot allow acts of terror to provoke us into hateful responses. Jesus teaches us to love our enemies and be peacemakers in a world full of conflict.

  4. Express gratitude for first responders. The bravery of firefighters, police officers, and paramedics on 9/11 gave us a new appreciation for those who run toward danger to save others. They remind us of the importance of selfless service.

  5. Learn about other faiths.  As we strive to be salt and light, it’s crucial to distinguish between radicals who commit violence and those of faith groups who reject terror and promote peace.

  6. Resist xenophobia. Fear of people from other countries or cultures only divides us further. We are called to love our neighbors, regardless of their background.Sandy Dahl, wife of Flight 93 pilot Jason Dahl pleads, “If we learn nothing else from this tragedy, we learn that life is short and there is no time for hate.”

  7. Pray for our local, state, and national leaders. Navigating the complexities of terrorism and international relations is no easy task. Let us remember to pray for wisdom and discernment for those in authority.

In the years since 9/11, the world has changed, and we continue to process its impact. But as we remember that day, may we emerge more grateful for the heroes, more respectful of each other, and more grounded in our faith.

A year after the 9/11 attacks, I was asked by reporter, “How has the world changed since September 11, 2001?” The response I gave in 2002 is still relevant in 2020:

I believe the world has changed in so many ways that the majority of those changes are still being realized and processed.   From my perspective, it seems that our nation is going through the various stages of grief (shock, denial, depression, panic, guilt, resentment, and hope), and like any normal family system, not everyone is in the same stage.   Because the assault on 9/11 was a multi-dimensional attack on the spiritual, social, psychological, and economic fabric of our country, our sense of loss is more complex. Not only were thousands of lives lost, but so were many of our presuppositions, especially those regarding personal safety, economic security, and religious superiority. I hope and pray that we will emerge as individuals who are more circumspect, more patient, less acquisitive, and more spiritually grounded than we have previously demonstrated.

A Few Life Lessons from the Olympics

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Hebrews 12:1-2 includes this encouraging word to those who have begun a spiritual journey: “And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”

The Olympics celebrate human strength, determination, and the spirit of competition. The ancient games included the Panathenaic Games in Athens, the Isthmian Games in Corinth, and the early Olympics in Olympia. The modern Olympic games began in 1896 in Athens.

There are at least 7 places in the New Testament that utilize analogies from the ancient games to illustrate principles about life, most of them written by the Apostle Paul and the anonymous author of Hebrews. These texts draw parallels between these athletic competitions and the journey through life.

Here are a few of the life lessons from the Olympics:

1. Learn the value of unity and teamwork. The Olympics bring together people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, united by a common goal. In the same way, the body of Christ is made up of diverse members, each with unique gifts and talents. Ephesians 4:15-16 says, “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. From him, the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.”

2. Train with rigorous discipline. Just as athletes discipline their bodies and minds, those who follow Jesus are called to a life of focus and discipline. Things like prayer, Bible study, worship, service, and advocacy are basic ways to fortify our faith and stay focused on our mission. World champion figure skater, Kristi Yamaguchi, contends, “Focus, discipline, hard work, goal setting and, of course, the thrill of finally achieving your goals. These are all lessons in life.”

3. Demonstrate perseverance in dealing with challenges and hurdles. Olympic athletes face numerous obstacles, from injuries to setbacks in competition. Yet, they persevere, driven by their passion and determination. Challenges and hurdles are the norm in life, not the exception. Hebrews 12:1 begins, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.” Olympian Carrie Johnson reminds us, “Falling in life is inevitable – staying down is optional.”

4. Athletes of all ages can participate. In the Olympic games there are no age limits. This year there are two 16-year-olds, and one 59-year-old participating. The oldest Olympian on record is Oscar Schwan of Sweden who was 72 when he participated in the shooting competition in the 1920 Olympics. You are neither too young or too old to make a valuable contribution.

5. Keep your eyes on the prize. Athletes train and compete with the goal of winning a medal, a prize that honors their hard work and dedication. Paul reminds us in Philippians 3:13-14, “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

Mary Lou Retton, 5-time Olympic medalist in Gymnastics, advises, “As simple as it sounds, we all must try to be the best person we can: by making the best choices, by making the most of the talents we’ve been given.”

As we watch the Olympics this year and marvel at the dedication, perseverance, unity, and joy of the athletes, let their example inspire us to integrate these same values into our lives.



7 Biblical References to the Ancient Games

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(The Olympic Rings from 2014 Olympic. Photo credit: David Davies/PA Wire.)

As I watched the athletes parading via a variety of boats down the Seine River during the opening ceremonies of the 2024 Olympics in Paris, I was thinking about the history and origin of the games, and reflecting on the many passages in the bible that utilize athletic metaphors to describe the values and priorities of life.

This week as the world watches the excitement and drama of the Olympic Games unfold, it’s a good time to explore how these ancient competitions inspired one of the Bible’s most influential figures. The Apostle Paul, a missionary and evangelist known for his passionate letters and profound theological insights, frequently used the imagery of the ancient games to illustrate spiritual truths. These metaphors resonate across the ages, reminding us to approach our faith with the same determination and discipline as Olympic athletes.

Although what we know as the modern Olympic games started almost two centuries after the ministry of Paul, he would have been acquainted with the ancient games played in Olympia, Athens, and other cities across Greece. Since Paul spent considerable time in Corinth, he may have attended the Isthmian Games that were held there every two years in the spring. The early games included footraces, chariot races, wrestling, boxing, discus throwing, javelin throwing, long jump, poetry reading, and singing.

His acquaintance with these events certainly influenced Paul’s own sense of discipline and determination. Here are 7 examples of scriptures where Paul, and perhaps others, drew upon the rich symbolism of the games to convey his message:

1. 1 Corinthians 9:24-25: “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” Paul compares the Christian life to a race, urging believers to run with the goal of winning at the things that matter most. Just as athletes undergo rigorous training for a temporary crown, we are called to dedicate ourselves to causes that make an everlasting impact.

2. 1 Corinthians 9:26-27: “Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.” In these verses, Paul emphasizes purposeful and disciplined living. Like a focused runner or a precise boxer, our efforts in faith must be intentional and controlled, ensuring we remain steadfast and true to our calling.

3. Philippians 3:13-14: “Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Paul encourages us to forget past failures and focus on the future, pressing forward with determination toward the ultimate prize of God’s call to a covenant lifestyle.

4. 2 Timothy 2:5: “Similarly, anyone who competes as an athlete does not receive the victor’s crown except by competing according to the rules.” Here, Paul reminds us that just as athletes must compete according to the rules to win, we too must live our lives according to God’s moral and spiritual guidance to receive the ultimate reward.

5. 2 Timothy 4:7-8: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” In his final letter, Paul reflects on his life using the imagery of a race well-run and a fight well-fought, confident in the reward awaiting him. This serves as an encouragement for us to persevere in our faith and finish strong.

6. Galatians 5:7 “You were running a good race. Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth?” Paul uses the metaphor of a race to address the Galatians’ deviation from the truth, urging them to remain steadfast and not be hindered by false teachings.

7. Hebrews 12:1-2: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” Though the authorship of Hebrews is debated, this passage aligns with Paul’s athletic imagery, encouraging believers to run their race with perseverance and focus on Jesus.

World champion figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi, who won the gold at the 1992 Olympics, contends “Focus, discipline, hard work, goal setting and, of course, the thrill of finally achieving your goals. These are all lessons in life.”

As we cheer for our favorite athletes this Olympic season, may we be inspired to run our spiritual race with the same dedication and zeal. Let us strive for excellence by living with a Jesus worldview and keeping our eyes fixed on the One who is the ultimate victor.

(Barry Howard serves as the pastor of the Church at Wieuca in north Atlanta. He also serves as a leadership coach and columnist with the Center for Healthy Churches. You can follow him on social media at @BarrysNotes.)

A Pastor’s Prayer for Our Nation- July 14, 2024

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(This pastoral prayer was offered in worship at the Church at Wieuca on Sunday July 14, 2024, the day following the attempted assassination of our former president.)

O God of truth, compassion, and eternal justice, we approach your throne of grace today with heavy hearts, seeking comfort and strength in the wake of the recent shooting that has rattled our nation.

We lift up to you our former president and pray for his quick and thorough recovery, and for his physical and spiritual wellness. And we pray for all those affected by the recent assassination attempt. Administer your healing touch to those who were injured and your comfort to those who lost loved ones, and surround them with your peace that surpasses all understanding.

Lord, in this time of shock and uncertainty, we ask for your divine guidance and protection for our nation. Guard us from further atrocities and unite us in solidarity and compassion. Give wisdom and discernment to national and local leaders as they navigate this crisis and strive to ensure safety and security for all who gather in public spaces.

As we attempt to apply your words to life and to live by faith as we hold to your promise of a better future, we confess that our anger and grief from this event are not nearly resolved, and that a sense of despair and deep concern incubates deep within us.

Rather than being consumed by our grief, controlled by our fears, and riddled by our anxieties, help us set our minds to addressing the injustice and disunity that precipitates hate and hostility. Let us direct our souls to living out our faith in our actions and attitudes, and let us turn our minds to addressing issues rather than attacking people, not with partisanship and fear, but with a responsible and courageous exercise of freedom.

O God we confess our ongoing need of your life-changing and culture-shaping grace. Strengthen our resolve, O God, to stand firm against fear and division, and empower us to work together towards a future of peace and harmony.

Lord, we affirm our trust in your unfailing love and mercy. Guide us through these troubled times with your mighty hand. May your grace abound in us and may the light of your love shine through us.

Above all, teach us to love one another again. And though it swims against the current of our deepest instincts, enable us to love those who think differently than we do, even those who may be considered our adversaries.

Although we have many perspectives, truly make us one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. We offer our prayer in the name of the One who aims to unite us all in faith, hope, and love.  Amen

(Barry Howard serves as the pastor of the Church at Wieuca in North Atlanta. He also serves as a leadership coach and columnist with the Center for Healthy Churches. You can follow him on social media at @BarrysNotes.)

Heal Our Divisions: A Prayer for Independence Day 2024

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On this Independence Day, we thank you for the gift of freedom, for the courage of those who fought to secure it, and for the opportunity to live in “the land of the free and home of the brave.”

Lord, we remember the sacrifices made by countless individuals who laid down their lives to establish and protect our liberty. May their bravery and dedication never be forgotten, and may we honor their memory by living in ways that honor their sacrifice.

We also pray for those around the world who do not yet enjoy freedom but live under threat and in fear of harsh and unjust regimes. And we pray for those who are fighting for their freedom even now that they may be victorious.

Especially today, we pray for our nation, asking for your guidance and wisdom for our leaders. Grant them the discernment to make just and righteous decisions that uphold the values of freedom and equality for all. Inspire us as freedom-loving citizens to engage actively and responsibly in our civic duties, building a culture of mutual respect and understanding.

During this season of celebration, we are also deeply burdened. Regardless of our personal ideology or perspective, we are concerned about things like the abuse of political power, the threat of terrorism, the divisiveness of harsh and misleading rhetoric, a lack of civil discourse, a growing sense of moral anarchy, the escalation of war, and the possibility of another natural disaster. We have an elevated sense of anxiety about the leadership of our government, the stability of our economy, and the future of our world.

And we confess that these anxieties all too frequently divert us from our mission to care for the “least of these” among us and to “love mercy, act justly, and walk humbly” with you.

We ask, O God, that you bless our land with a revival of unity. Heal the divisions that separate us and let us find common ground in our shared love for this country and the freedoms it represents. May we always strive to extend these blessings to those who are oppressed and marginalized, both within our borders and beyond.

Bless this land and its people. May our actions reflect your love and grace, and may we use our freedom to serve you and others with compassion, integrity, and humility.

Because you are the freedom-loving God, lead us to exercise our freedom responsibly and to pursue “liberty and justice for all” people across our nation and around the globe.

We pray in the strong name of the One who came to make us free indeed. Amen.

Remembering Bill Self: “The Church Is Worth the Effort”

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There are some moments and memories that we never forget. 

One such remembrance is when I first met Dr. Bill Self in 1981 at a banquet on the campus of Samford University. 

I was energized by Bill’s after-dinner speech. He quickly became one of my favorite preachers, not just because he was a captivating and motivating speaker, but because he had a contagious love for the local church. 

As the years unfolded, Bill became not only my colleague, but a friend and a strategic encourager.

We were blessed to have Bill and Carolyn spend a weekend with us in Pensacola in May 2015. For many years, Bill had been a close friend with our iconic pastor emeritus, Jim Pleitz. And Bill had served as the guest “evangelist” for a series of memorable revival services at First Baptist Pensacola during the 1970’s. So, Bill’s visit to Pensacola to be our guest for Heritage Day was filled with visits, stories, and reunions.

On Saturday evening, Amanda and I took Bill and Carolyn to Peg Leg Pete’s, our favorite seafood restaurant on the beach. We laughed and reminisced, but mostly we talked about the future of the local church. And we discussed the many ways that the church is in a season of challenging transition.

Whereas some pundits are prepared to offer a eulogy over the local church, Bill believed that if we seize the opportunity to dialogue poetically and prophetically with our culture, rather than launching hostile verbal missiles at our culture, this could be the church’s finest hour.

From among his many memorable sermons, such as “King for a Day,” “Swimming to the Deep End of the Pool,” and “What Do You Want with Me, Jesus?,” I am glad that Bill chose to preach the sermon, “The Church Is Worth the Effort” for our congregation, a message that continues to be timely and relevant.

Little did we know that our visit with Bill in Pensacola would be our last visit with him this side of heaven. Bill died on January 9, 2016 from complications with ALS.

So, in memory of Bill, each year around this time I give thanks for Bill’s impact on my life and ministry, and I review my notes from his last sermon in Pensacola, a sermon that every pastor and church member needs to internalize as we remind ourselves that the most influential days of the local church can be ahead of us and not behind us:

“I still love the church. I love the church universal, as well as the church local (red brick, white-columned with deacons smoking in the parking lot). With all of its dysfunction and flesh marks, with all of its confusion and humanity, it is still the best thing God has going for Him in this world. We do have a treasure in earthen vessels.

The church is a solid oak tree, not a fragile tea cup. It has withstood Roman Imperialism, Jewish legalism, pagan optimism, medieval institutionalism, the excesses of the reformers, wars and rumors of wars, a youth quake, modern skepticism, southern provincialism, resurgent fundamentalism, and heresies in each generation that seem never to die. It can withstand anything our generation can throw at it.

It has been victimized by unprepared and selfish clergy, tone-deaf musicians, manipulative members, argumentative deacons, demanding denominations, unloving reformers, and greedy politicians. Still it continues to provide love, affirmation and community to the fallen in the face of alienation.

The church is worth the effort!”

And it still is today.