Faithful Steward Ministries and FSM Women's Outreach

Today marks the 23rd anniversary of the terrorist attacks on America. We must NEVER FORGET those who lost their lives in this cowardly moment in history, nor those heroes who rushed to the aid of those in NYC, the Pentagon, and Stoystown, PA.

The sign of God’s covenant with Noah was and is the rainbow, others may hijack it for nefarious deeds, but God will prevail in the end.

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DEVOTIONAL

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Colors of Hope

I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Genesis 9:15

READ Genesis 9:11-17

On September 11, 2023—the twenty-second anniversary of the attacks against the United States—a stunning double rainbow graced the skies above New York City. Home to the former Twin Towers, this city suffered the greatest losses in the attacks. More than two decades later, the double rainbow brought a sense of hope and healing to those who were there to see it. A video clip of the moment seemed to capture the rainbows emanating from the site of the World Trade Center itself.

Rainbows in the sky have brought an assurance of God’s faithfulness since the days of Noah. In the wake of God’s judgment of sin which resulted in unimaginable destruction, He set the colorful beacon as a visual reminder of “the everlasting covenant between [Himself] and all living creatures” (Genesis 9:16). After forty dark days of rain and months of flooding (7:17-24), one can only imagine how welcome the rainbow—“the sign of the covenant”—must have been to Noah and his family (9:12-13). It was a reminder of God’s faithfulness that “never again will there be a flood to destroy the earth” (v. 11).

When we face dark days and tragic losses—whether due to natural disaster, physical or emotional pain, or the plight of disease—let’s look to God for hope in the midst of it. Even if we don’t catch a glimpse of His rainbow in those moments, we can be assured of His faithfulness to His promises.

By Kirsten Holmberg

REFLECT & PRAY
How has God revealed His presence to you during difficult seasons of life? Who might need to hear your story today?

Father God, please help me to see You in the midst of my struggles today.

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CONTEXT

What is the meaning of the rainbow?

What is the Noahic Covenant?

The Rainbow in the Clouds  by John MacDuff

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9/11 Related

What If 9-11 Happened Today?

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A 9/11 Hero’s Tale: Listen to Ron Pastino’s Journey

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Twenty-three years ago, our nation faced an unimaginable tragedy on September 11 — a day that left deep scars on the heart of America. Whether we lost loved ones or a piece of ourselves, we continue to reflect on that dark day and how, in our nation’s hour of greatest need, we stood together as one.

On this National Day of Service and Remembrance, we honor the memory of the 2,977 lives taken from us. We thank the first responders and all those who courageously answered the call to serve and help save hundreds of lives. We also salute those who have since stepped up to protect and defend our country. Your country is forever grateful.

Since that fateful day in 2001, thousands of brave Americans have enlisted in the Armed Forces. They’ve made life-changing sacrifices, leaving behind their loved ones, setting aside their personal ambitions, and risking their lives for the freedoms we hold dear.

Today, we remember those we’ve lost and honor the dedication of all our heroes in uniform who have served — and who continue to serve our country every day.

Thank you for being a part of this community of dedicated military supporters, Mike. On a day like today, I’m proud to stand united with you.

With solemn gratitude,

J.D. Crouch II
CEO & President, USO

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