The Orlando airport is quiet today, a welcomed reprieve from the usual mayhem.

Earlier this morning, my niece texted me, acknowledging the fact that we were together twenty-three years ago. Way back then, for some reason she got to spend the night with us—on a school night of all things! Then, on September 11, 2001, as we were getting her ready for the day, all hell broke loose in NYC.

We remember this shared experience every year. The planes, the explosions, the chaos on the streets, the horror, the collapse of the Twin Towers. The thick, chalky clouds of blinding dust filling the air and lungs and covering, smothering, everything. Lost lives, listless faces, twisted metal, terror, and such sorrow.

Since then, I have walked the streets with New Yorkers who lived the nightmare to tell the story we watched unfold from the other side of the country. I have visited the Pentagon in recent years and the 9-11 Attack is part of the warp and woof of its history. Today we remember those who died on flight 93 and all the families and friends who lost a sister or a friend, a mom or dad, a colleague or teacher.

60 Minutes, a CBS series, recently aired a story that documents the unimaginable events that unfolded that day. The story highlights New York firefighters—their courage and bravery. Scores of men and women, many of whom ultimately and valiantly sacrificed their lives to save others.

Today, many of the children of fallen firefighters serve in the FDNY, with the goal of carrying the legacy of a parent, an aunt, or an uncle with the same commitment and courage.

September 11th is a day we need to remember. In this divisive political season, amid the stress and busyness of life it is important to remember the lives that were lost, or disrupted, changed forever in the blink of an eye. Let us not take for granted the great loss and sacrifice.

Oh God, we do not understand why these events happen, why there is such evil in the world, but let us not forget those who lost their lives that day.

We pray for comfort for those who grieve and we thank you for those who willingly, every day, give of themselves in cities and towns across our country.

We pray for peace—not just here in the US, but everywhere dear God. We long for your kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven.