Do you Remember 9/11?

As I consider the 20th anniversary of 9/11, I recognize it is a day that should be remembered by all Americans. This led me to ask myself, what is it to truly remember something? I remember where I was. I remember the effect it had on our country. I remember us going to war because of it. But is that really remembering it?

I can think about my wife’s birthday before and on her birthday, but if that’s all I do, then I win no points with her. I can think about our anniversary, but if that’s all I do, then I’ve done nothing to enhance our relationship.

If Sam Houston did not truly remember the Alamo, he would have no inspiration to go to battle with Santa Anna and gain control of Texas.

If all we did was take juice, eat bread and say this is the Lord’s supper, we may totally miss the point. If we truly remember, then we are going to have a real appreciation for the sufferings of our Saviour. If we truly remember during the Lord’s supper, we are going to examine our hearts before him, that we may keep them pure in his eyes. We will have a heart to be found faithful at his return.

As I consider these things, I ask myself, have I truly taken time to remember holidays such as, the 4th of July, Memorial Day, Veterans Day, Pearl Harbor Day, and 9/11? Have these days moved me to action? Have they prompted gratitude in my heart that transcends personal disappointments and trials?

Have they prompted greater service for my God and the good of my country? In what ways have I been inspired to be a better person because I remembered?

If I can’t think of anything, then I probably didn’t really remember!

 
 
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