On September 11, 2001, the world was shaken to its core. The terrorist attacks left thousands dead, hearts broken, and cities in despair. Yet amid that darkness, slender shafts of mercy appeared—moments of compassion, courage, and forgiveness—testifying to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of God’s grace.
One such moment, shared during the Disney Anniversary of 9/11 special, remains unforgettable.
A man, staying in a hotel near the Twin Towers, stepped into the morning’s horror. Outside, the air was thick with dust and sirens. Amid the chaos, he saw a woman nearby, critically injured and unsure whether she would survive. Driven by a shared desperation, he took her hand. There, in the middle of a frightening street, they prayed the Lord’s Prayer together, voices trembling against the roar of sirens:
“Our Father, who art in heaven…”
As they prayed, she whispered that she had just lost someone dear in the attacks. His heart broke. Then, unexpectedly, he forgave the terrorists. Only later did he learn that his own wife was on one of the planes. This wasn’t denial—it was divine strength, refusing bitterness, praying peace.
The Power of Forgiveness
Forgiveness after such evil feels impossible. Our instincts scream for justice or retribution. But Jesus calls us to something higher. Forgiveness doesn’t excuse or forget wrongs—it releases us from bitterness. It’s choosing peace over poison, love over hate.
This echoes Joseph’s words in Genesis:
“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” (Genesis 50:20)
Like Christ on the cross—“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)—forgiveness transforms tragedy into testimony. It’s the beating heart of the Gospel.
Forgiveness Still Happens Today
Forgiveness isn’t confined to history. It continues to break through darkness in our day.
In 2015, Charleston, South Carolina, nine worshippers were murdered in Emanuel AME Church. The families faced the shooter and forgave him, declaring, “I forgive you.” Their grace echoed worldwide—not because their pain was small, but because their faith was great.
A New Parallel: Political Violence and the Call to Forgive
On September 10, 2025, another horrifying act of political violence shook the nation. Conservative activist Charlie Kirk, co-founder of Turning Point USA, was shot mid-sentence during a Utah Valley University event. The shooter fired from a rooftop about 200 yards away, striking him in the neck. Kirk was rushed to the hospital but later died from his injuries.
The nation recoiled. Leaders across political lines condemned the violence. Prayers poured in from President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, Governor Gavin Newsom, and countless others.
This tragedy joins 9/11 and Charleston as reminders that we live in a broken, hate-filled world. Yet even here, the question remains: Will we allow hatred to consume us, or will we rise above it in the grace and forgiveness of Christ?
To Be Loved by God Is to Be Hated by the World
Jesus never promised us an easy road. In fact, He said plainly:
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
The closer we move toward the end of days, the more we will see tragedies like 9/11, Charleston, and the assassination of Charlie Kirk. Jesus warned us that to be loved by Him is often to be hated by the world (John 15:18–19). Darkness will resist light. Truth will be mocked. And faith will be tested.
But here’s the choice: would you rather be liked by the world—or approved by God? I would much rather be loved by God than applauded by a world passing away. Jesus also said:
“If anyone is ashamed of Me and My words in this sinful and adulterous generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when He comes in His Father’s glory with the holy angels.” (Mark 8:38)
We are called to live unashamed, boldly declaring our allegiance to Christ. The world may scoff, oppose, and even persecute us—but heaven will one day honor those who stood firm.
Living in Forgiveness: Practical Steps
- Start with vulnerability – Acknowledge your hurt. Name it before God. Surrender vengeance to His justice.
- Pray for those who hurt you – Begin simply: “Lord, bless them. Change them.”
- Write out your forgiveness – Journal or say it aloud, even if your feelings aren’t there yet.
- Replace bitterness with compassion – Ask God to help you see them through His eyes.
- Anchor in Scripture and community – Surround yourself with truth and people who will encourage your walk of grace.
- Choose forgiveness daily – It may not happen in a moment. Keep choosing until the chains break.
End-Times Encouragement: Hope in Christ’s Return
As violence and hatred increase in the world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Yet Jesus told us these things would happen. They are not signs of defeat but reminders that His return is drawing near.
“When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come.” (Mark 13:7)
For believers, this isn’t a call to despair but to hope. Every act of violence, every injustice, every tear-stained tragedy points us closer to the day when Jesus will return, wipe away every tear, and set all things right.
Eternal justice is coming. Evil will not have the last word. Christ will.
So, let us not grow weary. Let us not shrink back. Instead, let us forgive, let us shine, and let us stand unashamed until the trumpet sounds.
A Call to Us
None of us may face tragedies on the scale of 9/11, Charleston, or political assassinations. But all of us bear wounds. The question is—will we let bitterness harden us, or will we walk the narrow road of forgiveness?
When we forgive, we:
- Reflect the heart of Christ.
- Proclaim that evil will not win.
- Testify that grace is stronger than hate.
- Prepare our hearts for the day our Savior returns.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You that even in a world filled with hate, Your love shines brighter. We confess that we often want revenge, but today we choose forgiveness. We choose to stand boldly for Christ, unashamed before the world. Give us courage to endure hardship, wisdom to discern the times, and grace to reflect Jesus to those around us. May our lives declare that evil will not have the last word—Your love and truth will. And as we wait for Christ’s return, help us live faithfully, forgiving freely, and shining brightly for You.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Life-Giving Words of Hope & Encouragement 
Leave a comment