This year marks the 15th anniversary of the horrendous attacks on innocent people in the US. On September 11, 2001, two hijacked commercial planes slammed into the Twin Towers in New York. A third plane struck the Pentagon in Virginia, and a fourth failed to hit its mark. This attack claimed the lives of almost 3,000 people, and injured more than 6,000. It remains one of the worst days in American history.
A horrific event is something that most people would usually prefer to forget. Yet every year America chooses to remember 9/11. But how should we remember such an event? As I write, I am aware of two attempts to commemorate 9/11 that have received severe criticisms—a mattress sale commercial in Texas and a store display in Florida. Both have a similar theme (“We will not forget”), which seems quite innocent. Yet, somehow, the idea of making the dreadful event as an opportunity to push a sale was too offensive for many. The commercial was discontinued and the display was removed. Apologies were expressed, but the anger lingers. The mattress store has decided to stay closed indefinitely. Patriotism somehow surges strong through many American veins when September 11 comes along. We do not want the memory to be disgraced.
We want to remember. Yet, remembering is not about dwelling in the past. Remembering is also about moving on, moving on to a more positive future. 9/11 may serve as a reminder of the things that America ought to stand for (which some have sought to destroy). Such a reminder may perhaps inspire us and motivate us to further strengthen our resolve to pursue together that which is truly meaningful and worthwhile. We remember in order to move on.
I am reminded of another ghastly event—the crucifixion of Jesus. Followers of Christ are called by Christ himself to remember, even to celebrate, his death through the observance of the Lord’s Supper (Luke 22.15; 1 Corinthians 11.24-25). And the apostle Paul teaches us: “You proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes” (1 Corinthians 11.26). The remembering of the death of Christ is a celebration because it declares the event on which the very existence of Christians is built. The death of Christ is the foundation on which salvation is secured and the new life is built. And the one who was crucified is also the one who rose again. Now, he is the living Lord who empowers his followers to pursue a life of meaningful service to God and to others. Thus, looking back also means looking forward and moving on “until he comes.” Remember, and move on.
—Keith Y. Jainga