A Prayer and a Flag

Trusting God in the Midst of Chaos.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
    and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
    and he will make straight your paths.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 English Standard Version

For many, September 11th will be just another day on the calendar.  For my family, it will be a day that is forever etched upon our hearts.  I can tell you where I was, what I was doing, and how I knew this nation, my family, and the world would never be the same.  My emotions always cut deep when I reflect on this day 15 years ago.

flagMany answered the call to respond that fateful day:  firefighters, EMS workers, police officers, military personnel, hospital workers and everyday citizens.  Some I knew.  Most I did not. Many would come home.  Countless others would not.  In the midst of turmoil, extraordinary individuals came together and rallied around a common cause:  our nation, our flag and our faith.

My husband took off on an airplane from Ft. Drum, NY on October 4, 2001 to an undisclosed location for an undetermined amount of time as part of the nation’s initial military response to the horrific events of September 11th.

At the time, I had two young children at home:  ages 2 ½ and 6 months.  I tried to remain strong and stable for them, but knew months of uncertainty and danger were to come.  All I could do was put my trust in God’s plan for my husband, his unit, my family and our nation.

Lord, I pray today that we as a nation never forget the sacrifices made by brave men and women on September 11th. Let us also remember that the struggle continues for the families of the victims, the first responders, and the countless military members who continue to stand in harm’s way to protect our freedoms.  We do not know what tomorrow holds, but may we trust in you to find the peace and strength only you can provide in the midst of the chaos.

“But those who wait on the Lord
Shall renew their strength;
They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
They shall run and not be weary,
They shall walk and not faint.”
Isaiah 40:31 New King James Version

Photo and text copyright Darcia Kunkel

About Darcia Kunkel

Darcia Kunkel is a former military spouse, mother of three (and two dogs), author, editor and business consultant. She has a heart for military families, and writes on a variety of topics including modern motherhood, Christian inspiration, military spouse transition, cooking, and the struggles of perfectionism.