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Where was God?

Editor's note: I have an answer to a question that was asked in SpeakOut a few days ago, "Where was God on Sept. 11?" This was in our church bulletin the following Sunday. I don't know who wrote it. Whoever did deserves al the credit. - Rick Barnett

If anyone doubts God's presence, share this. I had a very dear friend question my faith in God right after the terrorist attack on America. Her question was simply put, "Where is your God today?" She was very hurt, as all Americans were. So I tried not to react defensively. Since that moment I have prayed and grieved over the disastrous events. However, I believe I have the answer. I know where my God was the morning of Sept. 11, 2001.

He was very busy. First of all, he was trying to discourage anyone from taking this flight. Those four flights together could hold over 1,000 passengers, but there was only 266 aboard.

He was on four commercial flights giving terrified passengers the ability to stay calm. Not one of the family members who was called by a loved one on one of the hijacked planes said that passengers were screaming in the background. On one of the flights, he was giving strength to passengers to try to overtake the hijackers.

He was busy trying to create obstacles for employees at the World Trade Center. After all, only around 20,000 people were at the towers when the first jet hit. Since the buildings hold over 50,000 workers, this was a miracle in itself. How many of the people who were employed at the World Trade Center told the media that they were late for work or they had traffic delays?

He was holding up two 110-story buildings so that two-thirds of the workers could get out. I was so amazed that the top of the towers did not topple when the jets impacted.

And what about how America and its people have come together in prayer for our great nation and the world. It is time we all remember where our strength comes from - God.

He wants us to look to him for everything, in good times and bad. This tragedy is a wake-up call for the world. We need to start living right, as all God's people should. Although this is without a doubt the worst thing I have ever seen in my life, I can see God's miracles in every bit of it. I keep thinking about my friend and praying for her every chance I have. I cannot imagine going through such a difficult time and not believing in God. Life would be hopeless. We cannot change the wind, but we can adjust our sails.