Have You Forgotten?

So I was thinking about 9/11 Saturday night because of a country song that was playing called "Have You Forgotten?". (Click on Title of Post for CMT Video)I have heard it several times but Saturday night as Kevin and I were on our way to the movies it was especially poignant. Our lives have truly moved on and we don't feel the pain of loss and anger we experienced when we were attacked. We may have scars but they don't hurt and are no longer fresh. It's okay to enjoy life and yes, move on but our views on the military, police, firemen, rescue squads, and EMTs no longer reflect the joy, pride, and gratitude we felt that day. In fact, we have been politically and media manipulated to almost be desensitized to war efforts abroad, or critical of the necessity. How sad! I guess I have watched to much secular news but it does fire me up..in disgust most often.

Anyways, I stopped at a thrift store Tuesday afternoon on the way home from the doctor's office. I love to look for books. I found a book by Jim Cymbala re: 9/11. He is the pastor of the Brooklyn Tabernacle Church. He shares in the book the passion we had for Christ as Christians during that time to comfort, guide, direct and support the lost who were searching for meaning of the events. I haven't finished the book and the title evades me. I am in the office and Kev is asleep so I can't go into the room to get it but I will let you know. The book has got me thinking about sharing Jesus with others.

It may be easier for some of us to share our faith when we are approached or know the person is genuinely searching or "needy" but what about now in your circle of influence. They may not be shaken by recent events and in fact seem to be doing just fine. You never know though how they may long to hear an encouraging word, or need an ear to bend. I am not talking about leading a person through a scripted salvation prayer. I am talking about sharing Jesus' joy and comfort that He brings to you personally and sharing why you love Him and want to be like Him. It's not about a ticket to heaven in case of terrorist attack or sudden death. It's about introducing a lost person to the peace and security of a relationship with a holy, God who loves unconditionally, and needs you to participate in a life that brings Him glory, fulfills His purpose, and ultimately brings you to an eternal existence of no more tears, pain, loneliness, and strife. It's called heaven.

Are we so selfish that we don't have time to even share within our circle of influence...our co-workers, family members, and neighbors? My goodness we don't even have to make an effort...we are already there in their midst. YET I say this and I know sometimes those closest to us are the hardest to share with. They know our past failures, and our weaknesses. They see our humanness. Sorry, girlfriends, no excuse. Our joys, humbleness, gratitude for grace, and caring for others should shine bright as a billboard. Guess what, my friends? It can be as simple as a light touch, gentle hug, or even a smile that can open a door. When is the last time you smiled, or do you smile? We can be such drab, grumpy Christians.

I don't know why I chose this topic. I woke up from a nap with it on my mind. You know how it is? If I am convicted, rattled or shaken, I am going to share. I cannot do this alone!

If I sound grumpy, I am, sorry, WAH! I woke up at 3am because Kevin had to get up for a work project. By 4:00am, I was up and cleaning my house. I am talking scrubbing, sweeping, washing, and mopping. By 8:30 am, all was done but then I had some other projects to tend to. I took a nap and I feel wonderful, but still thinking of our enthusiasm, our eagerness, and zest for sharing Jesus and drawing closer to God for our comfort and our security on 9/11. I am even thinking about how the victims of 9/11 are doing today...it's going to be 8 years. Do they still love God? Did they know Him then? I know that 8 years ago I was beginning a horrific disease...but I am better for it. Are they? Are you?

I am NOT saying that God had anything to do with the horrible, evil events of 9/11 but let's revive our quest to share Jesus with those close to us who may not know Him personally. Your sharing and living out loud will draw them to Him. Keep your heart right, girlfriends!