Photo was taken yesterday in New York, (U.S.A)
Robert Peraza, who lost his son Robert David Peraza, pauses at his son’s name at the North Pool of the 9/11 Memorial Site during yesterday’s 10th anniversary ceremonies at the site of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2011. We often talk about how a photograph can speak where words fail, then this photograph captures a really touching moment filled with sadness but also love and healing.
Thought on Monday – September – 12/09/2011
‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.’ ~President Barack Obama reading Psalm 46 during yesterday’s 9 11 10th Anniversary Commemoration
The psalms may be thousands of years old but they still speak with such a freshness today, penetrating even the darkest and loneliest moments of our lives. Psalm 46 reminds us that in the midst of great tragedy and setback, that God is in there as our refuge and strength. It allows us to be people of hope, to have the inner conviction that we can overcome tragedy but only if we do it one step at a time. The build up to yesterday’s 10th anniversary was extensive to say the least. There have been so many articles written, so many memories recalled and so many human stories that are still so touching and filled with love. Yesterday’s ceremonies marked a significant milestone. To say that it brought closure to the families who lost loved ones would probably be wide of the mark. To say that it brought healing would be an overwhelming positive yes. Healing is one of the most precious gifts we can give to each other. Psalm 46 quoted by President Obama yesterday reminds us that God is the source of this wonderful gift of healing. The gift of healing goes way beyond words. It is gentle, constant and is always quietly working away to bring us into a better place. We pray today for healing in our lives and in particular anyone who feels angry, hurt, in pain, in darkness or whatever difficult place they may be in.
