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A Call to Prayer

.... from our nation's Christian leaders
Sep 14, 2001
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A Call to Prayer
Crosswalk.com asked a number of Christian leaders to share prayers for the country and those affected by the terrorist attacks.


Prayers and Statements …

From Dr. Wesley K. Stafford

Compassion's leadership and staff, both in the United States and abroad, are shocked at the magnitude of the tragedy and feel a great sense of loss for the families and friends of the victims. We continue to pray that our country's leadership will seek God's wisdom and discernment in the days ahead as the nation works through the aftermath of these tragic events.

As an international organization, we are accustomed to tragedies that
regularly occur throughout the world. The tide has turned. Now we have been overwhelmed by the show of support by our worldwide staff, sponsors, and donors as crisis visits our nation.

In these dark times, Christians are called to be the salt and light of the world. As a body of believers, we are challenged to uplift one another and to recognize that we are our "brothers' keepers."

How timely are the Apostle Paul's words to the church in Corinth, "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God" (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

May God bless the United States as we turn to Him, our rock and our
fortress.

Dr. Wesley K. Stafford is the president and CEO of Compassion International.


From Rev. Stan Purdum

Sept. 11, 2001

About an hour before the first attack on the World Trade Center this morning, I was reading the 66th Psalm. I underlined a couple of lines from verse 12: “We went through fire and through water; yet you brought us out to a spacious place.”

Shortly thereafter, the terrible events of this day began. I was stunned by what I saw and heard. And I realized that as a nation, we’re in the fire and water. It will be some time before we come to the “spacious place” of peace. But we need our trust in God more than ever.

In the meantime, please join me in prayer:

O God of heaven and earth, who is bigger than nations and factions, be with us as we live through the terror and despair of this time of danger. Be the strength of those who have been touched personally by this disaster. Come with healing to those who are injured. Be the eternal rest of those who have died. Be the energy, compassion and fortitude of those who must pick through the wreckage, handle the wounded, retrieve the dead and face gory but necessary duties. Grant our leaders a double portion of your wisdom. Give them insight, courage and guidance.

The day of universal brotherhood seems further off than ever, O God, but help us not to despair of trying to accomplish it. Strengthen our faith.

In the name of Jesus, amen.

The Rev. Stan Purdum is the author of Roll Around Heaven All Day and pastor of Palmyra United Methodist Church in Ohio.


Statement from Bishop T.D. Jakes

The terrorist attacks on the United States have stunned our nation. I want to call all Americans to pray. Pray for the victims and their families. Pray for the emergency workers so overwhelmed by these multiple incidents. Pray for President Bush as he sorts through the details of this horrific attack on our nation. Pray for the people so lost and desperate that they would resort to such an act. While we can never understand why these things happen, we must remember that God is with us in this time of pain and loss. He will not leave us or forsake us. This is a time for prayer, for courage and for Americans to support one another as we carry on.

Bishop T.D. Jakes is pastor of The Potter’s House in Dallas, Texas, and the author of a number of books.


Statement from Billy Graham

"Within the last few hours the United States has suffered the most terrible and devastating terrorist attack in its history. Although we do not yet know the full story, these unspeakable acts of brutality strike at the very heart of our free society.

"Our heartfelt prayers and sympathy go out to all who have been directly touched by this tragedy, and their families. I call upon all Americans to pray especially for our President and for all who advise him, that they may have divine wisdom as they respond to this insane and horrific act.

"In times like this we realize how weak and inadequate we are, and our greatest need is to turn in repentance and faith to the God of all mercy and the Father of all comfort. If ever there was a time for us to turn to God and to pray as a nation, it is now, that this evil will spread no further. It is also a time for us to remember the words of the Psalmist: 'God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea ... He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire. Be still and know that I am God ... The Lord of hosts is with us.'" (Psalm 46:1-2, 9-11)

Billy Graham is an evangelist.


From Dr. James Dobson

"Our hearts and prayers are extended to the victims and the loved ones of those whose lives have been devastated by this cowardly act. But it will not destroy us or weaken our resolve. America has always rallied and drawn strength when it has faced tragedy and danger—and it will do so again. We need to pull our loved ones close, and to turn to the God of our fathers Who gave us solace and guidance in past troubling times.

Specifically, I pray that the Lord will use this horrible experience to draw us to Himself. We have become self-sufficient and arrogant in recent years—as though we have no need of divine help. It is time for us to do some soul-searching, quite literally, as we reflect on this tragic day.”

James Dobson is the founder and president of Focus on the Family


From Luis Palau

"Where is God in all this? The crushing magnitude of this tragedy has sent this question across a broken and bleeding nation. Without sidestepping hard questions or slipping into pat answers, we've been suddenly called by God to offer comfort, solace, encouragement, and hope to those we know and love. We pray that God will provide His grace and mercy to all those whose lives and families have been devastated by these acts of terrorism."

Luis Palau is author of 'Where Is God When Bad Things Happen?'


Statement from Charles W. Colson

This is a national crisis of unparalleled proportions. It is Pearl Harbor compounded; a day that will redefine infamy in the annals of American history. I grieve the massive loss of life and pray that God will comfort the families and friends of those who have been taken from us.

I call on my fellow Christians, and for all Americans, to take time now to pray for those who are grieving, and for President Bush, Secretary Rumsfeld and our nation’s leaders. I have tremendous confidence in these leaders in this time of national trial and testing.

Make no mistake about it. Our nation has sustained the most severe attack in nearly two centuries, and the response must be proportionate, but swift and sure. Anything less will be inadequate in light of our responsibility as the leader of the free world, and the responsibility of our government to restore order.

At the same time, the purpose of terrorism is to destabilize free societies and to take away our liberties. We cannot succumb to this assault on our deepest beliefs by restricting the civil liberties that make this nation great.

The soul of our nation is facing one of its darkest hours. May God help us.

Charles W. Colson is founder of Prison Fellowship Ministries.


From Woodrow Kroll

The events in New York City and elsewhere today are unprecedented in our lifetime. The terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, and the deliberate downing of domestic aircraft, are absolutely unconscionable. And yet these tragedies are now forever welded in our minds. This is to the 21st century what Pearl Harbor was to the 20th century, except this was an attack on innocent civilians. We must pray continuously for the families and friends of the victims, for the success of rescue workers still looking for survivors, and for our President and his aides as they formulate an appropriate response to this act of terror. And we must not allow hope to die. Even in the midst of this present tragedy, God is in control and we pray with David, “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in Your word” (Psalm 119:114).

A prayer for our nation from Dr. Kroll

"O righteous Father, we do not pretend to understand why a tragedy of this magnitude has happened, but as Christians we have both the privilege and the responsibility to pray for the friends and family of the victims and ask that you comfort them in this their darkest hour. We pray for police, firemen, and rescue workers still looking for survivors. Reward their efforts with miraculous finds. We pray for our President and his aides as they formulate a response. May it not come from anger but from righteousness and the need for a nation to protect its citizens. As the events unfold, Father, may we come to understand and to forgive those who have perpetrated this terrible human loss. And through the horrendous events of this day, may we find our way back to You, to a deeper appreciation of your sustaining grace in our deepest need. May we find our strength in You and in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.”

Woodrow Kroll is President and Senior Bible Teacher, Back to the Bible


Statement from Steve Douglass

In light of the recent terrorist attacks on our country, we ask for your immediate and fervent prayer on behalf of our nation's victims, our government leaders, and those dedicated individuals rendering aid and assistance in New York and Washington, D.C.

We are blessed to report that all Campus Crusade staff in New York City and Washington, D.C., are well and accounted for. Many are already on the scene praying and encouraging those in shock and pain with the message of our Lord's love.

As God would have it, our President's Cabinet was in session when the attacks happened. We are dedicating ourselves to doing what Jesus would have us do in this time of national crisis.

The promise of Romans 8:28 has not ceased to be true. We have every reason to hope and not despair. Please claim God's wisdom for us and the Crisis Management Team as we continue to meet.

Steve Douglass is president of Campus Crusade for Christ.


From Larry Huch

First off, all our prayers go out to all the victims and their families of these terrorist attacks.

These tragic events help us understand the challenges that Israel faces in trying to negotiate with a people that send their children into the street to celebrate disaster and death.

This is why God has asked us to pray for our own governments, for general peace in the Middle East and specifically in Jerusalem.

Any religion that endorses murdering of innocent people is obviously not a religion of the compassionate and merciful God of our faith.

Secondly, we are praying for all of America along with countless numbers of others, believing that terrorism will not strike this great nation again.

Larry Huch is pastor of New Beginnings Christian Center in Portland, Ore.


Statement from Dr. Frank Wright

The shocking and tragic events of these days have reminded us anew of the fragility of life. Thousands went to work yesterday thinking about their jobs, their families, their friends — perhaps the last thing on their mind was the idea of meeting their Maker. Yet in an instant, they were brutally thrust out of time and into eternity. We grieve today with those who have lost dear loved ones, and we call upon God who is merciful and just and pray that His grace would be abundant in this time of need. Life is indeed fragile. It also precious, as evidenced by the fact that “God spared not His own Son but delivered Him up for us all.”

Dr. Frank Wright is the director of the D. James Kennedy Center for Christian Statesmanship in Washington, D.C.


Statement by Commissioner Joe Noland

The Salvation Army’s emergency food and aid vehicles and personnel have been on-site at the World Trade Center area since 10:30 a.m. ET (Tuesday) morning assisting victims and emergency personnel. Additionally, mobile emergency centers are at the plane crash site in Somerset County, Penn., and every Salvation Army emergency canteen, along with hundreds of counselors and social workers throughout the northeastern United States and Canada, are on call to serve victims, families, friends, and rescue workers 24 hours a day.

Our hearts are broken for the victims of today's tragedies, their families, and for America. Though The Salvation Army is on site providing assistance to our friends and neighbors who are the victims of this tragic event, our deepest desire would be that all Americans do what we have always done in times of national tragedy—hold fast to our faith and pray for our president and all our nation's leaders.

Throughout our history, America has remained strong because we have relied upon our faith in God, who is our deepest and surest help in times of trouble.

Commissioner Joe Noland is territorial commander, The Salvation Army, Eastern United States


From Nancy Leigh DeMoss

"Holy, merciful Father, in the midst of upheaval and crisis here on this earth, we lift our eyes up and by faith we acknowledge that You are still on Your throne and that "Heaven rules" (Dan. 4:26). We have been dramatically reminded in the events of this day that there is no true security or safety apart from You. No human systems or devices can protect us if You are not defending us. Help us to find refuge and to place our trust in You. Help us to realize that the greatest threat facing our nation is not human terrorism, but the withdrawal of Your presence as a result of our national rejection of Your authority.

What we have seen today--horrifying as it is--pales in comparison with the fury and devastation of Your final judgment on those who reject You. Thank You for Your mercy that triumphs over judgment. May our hearts be repentant and fully surrendered to You; and may we take seriously our calling to join You in Your redemptive purposes, to boldly proclaim the gospel of Christ, and to urge men and women everywhere to flee from the wrath to come. May the lives and prayers of Your people inspire those who do not know You to run to Christ, in Whom alone they can find eternal refuge and peace that overcomes all fear. May Your Name be hallowed, Your Kingdom come, and Your will be done on earth this day, as it is in Heaven. Amen.

Nancy Leigh DeMoss is the host of Revive Our Hearts.


From Ray Pritchard

O Heavenly Father, you alone are the Lord of all things. Before the
mountains were formed, before the stars were in the sky, from
everlasting to everlasting, you are God. We acknowledge, O Lord, that
you are sovereign over all things and that nothing can happen apart from you. In our grief and in our confusion, we come to you because today we truly have nowhere else to turn. Your Word tells us that it is vain to trust in horses and chariots for safety. We your people trust in the name of the Lord our God.

Ray Pritchard is Senior Pastor of Calvary Memorial Church in Oak Park, Ill. and author of several books, including "An Anchor for the Soul" and "In the Shadow of the Cross."


From Sheila Walsh

Most Sovereign Holy God,

Your people turn to you today as we become aware of the devastation that has inflicted our cities, our homes and our hearts.
We ask for your comfort to pour down from heaven to all who mourn.
We ask for peace to rest on all who fear.
We ask for healing for those who are broken.
We rest in the absolute assurance that you are in control.
We know that we are not immune from the evil that is present in this world but we are not people of this world. We are people of eternity.
Lord, we ask that in this day of terror hearts will turn to you.

Glorify your name as we turn to you.
Amen.

The LORD is my light and my salvation -- whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life -- of whom shall I be afraid? When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident.

One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. -- Psalm 27

Sheila Walsh is a speaker for Women of Faith conferences, author and recording artist.


From Janet Parshall

In the midst of what appears to be national chaos, I am comforted by the profound reality that God is not pacing in His throne room, wondering what He should do next. He is and always will be our sovereign Lord. It is so important, as our president ponders what the United States' response must be, that we remember that "the heart of the King is in the hand of God." The people who love our eternal King must be in constant prayer for President Bush. May God grant him the wisdom of Solomon, the patience of Job and the discernment of Paul. And may God bless America.

Janet Parshall is host of the radio program Janet Parshall's America.


From Rabbi Scott Sekulow

This is a sad time in our history, and a time that all must come together and pray for all that have been affected by this terrorist act on innocent people. We now see how Israel feels when its men, women and children are attacked for no reason. I pray for those that are trapped and for our president, as he must pull this country back together. We must pray for the peace of Jerusalem and the United States.

Rabbi Sekulow is founder of Israel's Harvest Ministries.


From Franklin Graham

This is a time for all Americans to pray for the thousands of victims, their families, and loved ones that have been affected by the tragic events of today. These atrocities remind us how precious life is and how important it is to be spiritually ready to stand before and give account to Almighty God.

My prayer is that the people of this nation will turn their eyes and hearts to the Lord and seek His wisdom and protection. May all Americans pray for our president and government leaders that God would guide and direct them as they lead our nation during these dark hours.

Franklin Graham is president of Samaritan's Purse and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association


From Craig Parshall

We grieve deeply for those who have lost loved ones in what appears to be a senseless, vicious act of terrorism against our nation. We are confident that President Bush and our national leaders will act swiftly to protect our borders, and bring those responsible for this cowardly act to justice. But we must also remember that God is still very much in control. We look to the Word of God for answers:

Some boast of chariots, and some of horses;
but we boast of the name of the Lord our God.
They will collapse and fall;
but we shall rise and stand upright.

Give victory to the king, O Lord;
answer us when we call. Psalm 20: 7-9

Craig Parshall is a trial lawyer in Virginia who specializes in cases involving religious and civil liberties and pro-family issues.


From Jerry Falwell

Obviously, war has been launched against the United States. While we don't know who is responsible, we can be assured that our government is working to find out who is responsible. Right now, our government and our president need our prayers.

The only weapon we have as believers in Jesus Christ is prayer. In the Bible, II Chronicles 7:14 says, "If my people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray, and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and heal their land."

I would like to call our nation to prayer: prayer for the United States, for the victims of these terrible tragedies, and for our president and others as they make important decisions in the ensuing days.

Jerry Falwell is chancellor, Liberty University, and senior pastor, Thomas Road Baptist Church, Lynchburg, Va.


From Carmen Pate

I praise God that I may enter His throne room for His comfort and wisdom during this difficult time. I praise Him for His sovereignty over the good and bad events of our lives. With God, nothing is accidental, nothing is incidental, and no event is wasted. He holds in His power our breath of life and our destiny. Every tragedy He allows to happen is a platform on which He reveals Himself, showing His love and power to the world. I thank Him that I can move into the future nondefensively, with hands outstretched to whatever lies ahead, for He holds the future and will always be with me, even to my old age ... and through all eternity.

God is our refuge and our strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though the waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. Psalm 46: 1-3

Carmen Pate is former president of Concerned Women for America (CWA), and a radio and television personality.

Originally published September 14, 2001.

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