As the 10th anniversary of 9/11 approaches, President of HCJB Global Wayne Pederson provides us this commentary.
Where were you on September 11, 2001?
I was involved in a meeting of National Religious Broadcasters. Irwin Lutzer was keynote speaker, and as we learned of the tragic attacks, we gathered the group and Dr. Lutzer began to teach of St. Augustine’s [writings concerning] the ‘City of God’ and the city of man. This world is not our home. The City of God is real, and permanent.
Our world has changed since then, and the attacks on our nation transformed America from the great benefactor of the world to a country fearful and suspicious of our international colleagues.
Many mission organizations have chosen not to view people in these countries as enemies. Jesus taught us to love our enemies and pray for those who despise us. He gave us the ministry of reconciliation.
HCJB Global has redoubled its efforts to proclaim the message of Christ through media and to demonstrate God’s love through human care. The verse I discovered on Sept. 11, 2001, rings true today. It’s Psalm 91:1, ‘He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High, will rest in the Shadow of the Almighty.’ That might be good reflection on this 9/11.
