Immediately following 9/11, I cringed every time I heard a plane fly overhead. Like so many others, I prayed for our nation’s survival.

That frightful event’s only bright spot was that it brought our nation together – for a short while. Twenty-five years have passed since that horrible day. Sadly, America seems more divided than ever.

But are we truly each other’s enemies?

Apparently thin skin and America-bashing are in vogue. Our nation is in a crisis. Families, friendships and communities are suffering. Even our churches feel the effects of our current political climate.

Why are we so divided?

Is this divisiveness a byproduct of terror?

Has our fear driven us to turn on one another?

Regardless of its cause, the United States of America can rise above this distrust and hatred.

We can begin by finding ways to serve our families, churches and communities. If we have financial means or good, old-fashioned physical strength, we can help the elderly and the disabled. We can assist those who have suffered property damage from the recent storms, floods or fires – even if we end up helping those with whom we disagree. 

Would people trapped in a flooded house ask about the rescuer’s political affiliation before accepting his or her help? Would parents, holding their infant child saved from a burning home, resent the hero’s kindness because he or she was in favor of closing the borders? Would the many elderly and disabled people in our own communities welcome help, even if their benefactor favored the “wrong” political party?

Romans 12:20 (ESV) reminds us how we are to treat our enemies (or those whom we consider our enemies):

If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.

Aren’t these words compelling?

How would our country change if each of us sought to obey Romans 12:20? Something as simple as meeting the needs of our “enemies” could transform our nation – while changing the hearts of those served and those who serve.

If we want the United States to survive, we must unite as a people. I have a feeling we’re going to need each other even more in the future.

This September 11 is a sobering day for America. In honor of those who lost their lives that day, let’s pray for truth and righteousness to prevail in the country we love, the United States of America.

What do you think?

I’d love to hear your thoughts about this post. (Your comment might also benefit others.)

• Is there any hope for our divided nation?

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