Today is a day the world will never forget.  Especially Americans. In addition to the ceremonies at Ground Zero, the Pentagon and PA,  most schools in the area will have an assembly or something special to remember the day the world changed.  I wish that every school in America would do the same. President  Obama will visit the Pentagon and pay respect to those who were slain by Islamic terrorists.  2,985 victims were slain and their names will be read.  At sun down two light beams will be on at the site of the twin towers 8 years ago.  It is a day of remembering and paying tribute.

Today it is good to remember that Islam is not a religion of peace but one with a written doctrine teaching any non-muslim should be killed. Islam is the opposite of Christianity.

So, how do we respond today? Like most Americans, I support that we must fight the war on terror. I want justice. But what the city needs most is not justice, but Jesus.

We need to take the Gospel to New York City.  When God called us to NYC our initial response was to say no.  But as we prayed we knew that it would be a privilege to say yes.  Todd, the boys and I are so grateful that we were obedient.  NYC changed our hearts forever. We are grateful for the friends we have made, the ministry experience and especially the people that have prayed to receive Christ. 

In his first interview on September 11, Mayor Giuliani was asked how bad it was. He responded, “More than any of us can bear.” He was right. But there is a greater tragedy. What if people were to minister only where they were comfortable or where it feels easiest for quick success?

Thousands died that day, but many more go into eternity every day without Christ. On Staten Island where we ministered, George Barna says that less than .05% are considered evangelical Christian.  The need in that area breaks our hearts. That is why we will spend the rest of our lives praying, recruiting pastors for, and financially supporting that area of the world.

When will we realize that it is “more then any of us can bear”? When will we be as shocked by the lostness of the world and act accordingly? When will our churches love the people of New York like we did on September 11? We sent so many work boots and water bottles that they said “no more.” My prayer is that we will send as many missionaries and pastors as we did boots and as many witnesses as we did water bottles. Only then can we truly love New York.

LEAD Ministries wants to help empower and support new church plants.  If you are a pastor who is open to plant in the NYC area please contact us.  Email Todd at tseeley@LEAD-Ministries.org.