Matthew 27:24-31

Matthew 27:24-31 
English Standard Version (ESV)

  9/11 is always an interesting day.  It's hard to think about all that was lost -- most importantly the lives that were claimed by the acts of terror, and also so much about our collective national sense of safety.  Something was shattered on 9/11, and I don't think we'll ever get that back.  It obviously led us deeper into a cauldron of violence, which in many ways we're still in.  9/11 is a day to give thanks for what we have, for our families and our safety.  I spent last night watching Caleb at soccer practice, and the notion of watching my child play soccer at a neighborhood park was something I was extra grateful for yesterday.
  9/11 is also a day to give thanks for those who rush toward danger.  Every time I hear a siren, I give thanks for those who have the courage to rush towards those in need, whether it is a police officer heading into an uncertain situation or a fire fighter running into a burning building -- what courage & selflessness and compassion for those in danger.
  In the story of the passion of Jesus, we have the ultimate sacrificial servant, the Messiah who enters into our danger, who does not shy back in the face of violence and death, because these tools are what must be embraced in order to secure the future and forgiveness for humanity.  Jesus enters into the darkness so that we may know that the light will overcome the darkness.  We have hope because Jesus did not turn back in fear or disappointment, but rather entered into the world and defeated death to give us hope and new life.