When Time Stood Still 

The day was beautiful, crisp and clear. 
Fluffy, white clouds drifted across the brilliant, blue sky. 
Some flags were blowing in the cool fall breeze.

Freedom was never a thought.  

Tall buildings stood proudly glistening in the sunlight. 
Cars, taxis, trains and buses, filled with busy, 
absorbed people went racing by. 
Hands loaded with packages, briefcases and cups 
Were possibly too busy to reach out and touch.

Freedom was never a thought.

Children played happily with excitement in the school yard- 
Little feet running quickly by, 
Colorful balls bouncing up and down; 
Swings going back and forth, reaching high in the sky.

Freedom was never a thought.  

Empty dialogue filled our assembly halls, 
Each person wanting their own way; 
Unnecessary issues facing the day.

Freedom was never a thought.  

Grown men and women imposed a decree, 
Across the land never to lift a prayer, at least outwardly. 
Offices, schools and official buildings 
Must be void of God's presence. 
Nativities cannot find space in town squares. 
There is no place for Jesus the King. 
Church and State must be separated, you see. 
If not, in violation we will be!

Freedom was becoming a thought.

All of a sudden angry ashes were flying high. 
Fire, soot, dust and smoke billowed in the sky. 
Walls crumbled with tremendous force! 
In a barren country field, a crater was formed in the earth. 
A flag and a bible landed violently, side by side. 
Thousands ,died, shedding their blood, on that dreadful day   ... 
Leaving an emptiness we will never forget. 
It is heartbreaking for you and me. 

Freedom is now a thought.

 Tears drip off tired, dusty faces. 
Rescue workers digging and clinging to hope, 
Work feverishly around the clock, 
That a loved one might he found. 
How could anyone do this to our human race? 
Is echoed across our sorrowful land. 

Freedom is now a thought.  

Now our great nation is overflowing with red, white and blue. 
Flapping stars and stripes are seen everywhere. 
Our country's anthem is repeatedly heard. 
Prayers are openly uplifted toward the heavens, 
In hope that God might heal our troubled land. 
God is mentioned over and over in this painful time. 
People are walking hand in hand, 
Working together in unity, tears and love. 

Freedom is now a thought.  

God, we pray that you will heal and restore our great land. 
May we honor You, with our very lives, 
Standing strong in valor and truth. 
Fill us with Your Spirit, goodness, and love, 
As our prayers reach to the heavens above. 
May each one of us take a firm stand 
Unashamed to be called "Yours" by name. 
Remembering "Your Precious Blood" that was shed for us, 
Help us to live in readiness for Your return, 
Our Precious Savior, Lord and King.   Amen

Julie Graybill September 19, 2001