Don't Take Tomorrow for Granted

Early this morning I attended a Zoom meeting for the area fire chaplains. We discussed business and checked in with each other. Then our team leader reminded us that tomorrow is September 11th. Nineteen years ago, the horrible tragedy happened that etched that date in our memories forever. I imagine most of us can remember where were and what we were doing when the first plane hit the World Trade Center. Almost 3,000 people woke up that morning not knowing they would lose their lives that very day.

Two thoughts for you. First, as one who serves alongside first responders, I can’t help remembering the picture of the NYFD chaplain’s body being carried out of the rubble by the firefighters he was serving. He was in the Trade Center praying for his crew when some debris fell on him and he died instantly. Countless other first responders perished in those buildings trying to save as many lives as they could. So, as tomorrow approaches, I ask you to pray for all the families who lost loved ones. Then pray for the first responders. Day in and day out, they literally risk their lives to save others. Pray for their families who send off their loved one for a shift not knowing if they will return home the next day.

Secondly, don’t take tomorrow for granted. Just like those people on 9/11, we are not guaranteed another day. I don’t say that to be morbid... it’s the truth. Our own mortality isn’t something we’re comfortable with for the most part. So, take time today to thank God for another day of life. Tell the people close to you that you love them. I’ve said this before, but, when I sit with people who are dying, they only care about two things…God and their loved ones. Nothing else matters. So, cherish this day because tomorrow isn’t promised.

“See” you Sunday,

Pastor Lu