Our memories have been described as precious gems that we use to reminisce.  Some memories are so vivid and riveted so deeply in the mind that they can never be forgotten.  Memories such as these can be of a tragic nature or they can be remembrances of the more majestic moments of life; and, there are times that the two intersect.

Earlier this week, our nation remembered the tragedy of 9-11.  More than one news report replayed the video of the Twin Towers. Even though my heart ached as I watched, I thought of that day eleven years ago; and,  it was soothed with another memory.

I also remembered the majestic expression of mercy as people from El Dorado, the citizens of Kansas, and people throughout the USA responded to the needs of the survivors.

I can remember how First Christian Church was filled beyond capacity as we hosted the community prayer service.  I can remember my call to Mayor Connie Phillips, and City Manager Stan Stewart.  We mobilized and announced the creation of Kansas Cares.  In a matter of a few weeks, we raised over $100,000 to help the families of the first responders.

In that tragic moment, there was also a moment of majesty.  Majestic moments are those mercy-filled seconds of life when the best of man and the grace of God shine brightest.

We see this scenario throughout the pages of Scripture.  It was seen in the story of Abraham and Isaac, the life of Joseph, the tragic loss experienced by Job, and Paul’s encounter with God on the Damascus road.

The Apostle Matthew records a similar incident:  When Jesus got into a boat, His disciples followed Him. And suddenly a great storm arose on the sea, so that the boat was covered with the waves. But Jesus was asleep. Then His disciples came to Him and awoke Him, saying, “Lord, save us! We are perishing!” But Jesus said to them, “Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?” Then He arose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. So the men marveled, saying, “Who this can be, that even the winds and the sea obey Him? (Matthew 8:23-27).

Like the disciples, we will experience the storms of life, and we will feel like we are about to be swamped and overcome by circumstances beyond our control.  These are the times when we may unexpectedly find the presence of God—the mercy-filled majestic moment that calms the waves.

I hope this gives you something to think about.