First Responders

First Responders

Today is September 11th. It used to be just another day on the calendar. But 17 years ago, it became a landmark date in American history. However, in the face of terrorism, many heroes emerged that day to do great things for those in need. We often refer to them as first responders, and they deserve our thanks and our respect.

There are many stories of service and sacrifice among the fire departments, police departments, and other emergency personnel in New York City and Washington DC. And on Flight 93, many rose to the occasion and answered the call to respond to the situation. And all across the nation, people from all walks of life responded with prayer, with donations, and with heartfelt support.

The world became a different place on September 11, 2001. The events of that day left a scar. Yet that scar reminds us that in some ways the world has always been this way. Beautiful and filled with great possibilities, yet tainted with evil and hatred. But in spite of the darkness, somehow the light always finds a way to shine.

Since the beginning of time, our world has seen much tragedy and sorrow, yet there are always those who find the strength to rise up with hope and respond. As followers of Christ, we are called to live as first responders. We respond to the enormous needs around us with compassion and with courage. We respond with the message and with the hope of the gospel.

That's what Empower NBCA School of Ministry is all about. Learning to respond to the call of God and to the needs of the world. In the midst of darkness, the light always finds a way to shine.