This past week, several things happened that reminded Lois and I of just how fragile and interconnected our world has become. First, we visited NYC and the 9/11 Memorial and learned two things we had not realized before. Even though the death toll on 9/11 was around 3,000, it could have easily soared to over 500,000 if not for ‘Operation Boatlift’ that saved over a half million people who were fleeing from Lower Manhattan during the 9/11 attacks. This maritime evacuation, led by civilian boat operators, was the largest sea evacuation in history, even larger than the evacuation of allied troops from France during WWII. Known as ‘Operation Dynamo’, which took place between May 26 and June 4, 1940, approximately 68,000 British soldiers were killed, wounded, or captured. The evacuation was a significant effort to rescue Allied soldiers who were trapped on the beaches of Dunkirk, France, by the advancing German forces. Although over 338,000 Allied soldiers were successfully evacuated, the operation did come at a substantial cost in terms of lives lost and equipment abandoned.

During the 9/11 attacks, there was a significant risk that the subways and tunnels connecting New York City and New Jersey could have flooded. One of the critical measures that prevented this disaster from happening was the quick action of emergency responders and engineers who worked to fortify this vulnerable infrastructure. The ‘Hudson River Bulkhead’, as it was called was a protective barrier, that was crucial in preventing water from flooding the subways and tunnels. Failure to stop the flooding could have potentially breached the structure and allowed the river to flood the underground systems. Had the bulkhead failed, the flooding could have resulted in a catastrophic scenario, potentially endangering the lives of thousands who were trying to flee the island. Given the density of commuter traffic and the number of people present in the subways and tunnels during the attacks, estimates suggest that thousands of people could have been at risk of drowning or facing life-threatening conditions due to the rapid influx of water. Thankfully, the integrity of the bulkhead and the swift response by emergency services averted another potential catastrophe.

         Second, the attempt on the life of former U.S. president Trump shows us how quickly situations can change had the attempt on his life been successful. Especially if it led to a civil conflict within our country. May we never condone violence that would occur in the political world to assassinate or harm any of our elected officials or candidates! Moreover, Jesus Christ, the embodiment of God’s love, consistently taught and demonstrated a life of compassion, peace, and reconciliation. Despite the unpredictable nature of chaos, God’s steadfast presence offers us stability and peace, guiding us towards a life characterized by order and love.

Third, we saw the worldwide effects of the computer software glitch from a company called “CloudStrike” which resulted in an unprecedented worldwide disruption, grounding flights, crippling online hospital systems, and shutting down 8 1/2 million computers, affecting 298 Fortune 500 companies. This event was made personal as our family was flying both domestically and internationally that day! Thankfully their situations turned out well when we asked for prayer intervention and watched the genius of our son-in law at work. This event paralyzed essential sectors and revealed how fragile our dependency on technology really is. The interconnectedness of our infrastructure, from banking to transportation and food supply, renders our society susceptible to profound crises on a global scale, emphasizing the need for robust contingency plans. The potential chaos from these scenarios, compounded by a hypothetical mass casualty event from the 9/11 attack shows us how vulnerable our society is and we will continually recognize and commend the heroism of the men and women who gave themselves to save others in the midst of the chaos as was demonstrated during the 9/11 event.

He Is Our Sure Foundation—The Rock On Which We Stand

When chaos strikes, whether through personal trials, relational conflicts, or global crises, it is crucial to anchor ourselves in the unwavering love and order that God provides. God’s Word reminds us of His constant presence and promise to be with us in times of trouble. They assure us we can find strength, courage, and comfort in Him, even when faced with sudden uncertainty and fear. Deuteronomy 31:6 encourages us, saying, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave or forsake you.”

This scripture along with many other scriptures state our Lord is our fortress and our shield in times of peril which reflects God’s commitment to be our refuge and rescuer amidst the storms and chaos. Remember that God’s love is greater than any uncertainty or tribulation we may face. In His presence, there is a peace that goes beyond human comprehension. This peace will sustain us and give us the strength to face whatever challenges that lie ahead. May we prepare our hearts and place our hope in Him as He is our sure foundation as we ask for His guidance and wisdom to navigate troubled times with clarity and discernment, and let us trust that through it all, God is with us, leading us toward a future filled with hope and redemption. May we be beacons of hope and change agents in a world that desperately needs it.

        Even in times of overwhelming fear, we are reminded not to dwell in that place. Instead,  may we find our strength in our Lord and choose to live under the shadow of His wings.  It is not enough for us to merely survive these challenging times; we have been called to live abundantly in the hope and promise of our Lord and Savior. Romans 8:28 reassures us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” As we love Him, he will guide us through life and use us as a vessel of love to bring hope and freedom to a world of brokenness and chaos. John 3 :16-17 are powerful verses! He loves us and did not come to condemn the world but to save us!

While we may not know the exact timeline of events or how things will look during a potential storm that may rage outside our doors. We need to remember what Isaiah says in 41:10. “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Now, even more than ever, it is essential that our faith will become a beacon of hope and stability, pointing the way toward a safe harbor that can only be found in God’s presence. Again, we are reminded of this amazing promise.  I Corinthians 13:13 says it so powerfully. “And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love”. We pray for His faithful love to permeate your hearts and homes and for His abiding peace to guide you through every storm. 

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