Hope that refuses to let go
by Jane Mueller
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May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope … (Romans 15:13).
Read Romans 15:1–13
On 11 September 2001, the world held its breath. Coordinated terrorist attacks in the United States saw four commercial planes hijacked. Two struck the World Trade Centre in New York City, one hit the Pentagon near Washington, DC, and the fourth crashed in a field in Pennsylvania after passengers intervened. Nearly 3,000 people were killed. Broadcast live across the globe, it was the deadliest terrorist attack in history. The images were unforgettable: collapsing towers, dust-covered survivors, stunned silence.
Though it happened in the USA, the grief was not confined by geography. It shook people the world over. It pressed into our churches, conversations and hearts. In classrooms, chapels and loungerooms, we wrestled with the weight of what had happened. It was a defining moment in global history.
The world changed. Airport security intensified – liquid restrictions were introduced, and body scanners became normal. Global surveillance increased. Counter-terrorism became a central focus of international policy. Immigration laws tightened.
Fear surged. Suspicion of others – especially those who looked or believed differently – grew. Strangers became threats. Compassion wrestled with anger. Grief and outrage sat side by side as many struggled with the tension of both heartbreak and fury. The ripple effects of that single day still can be felt across political, social and cultural lines.
Yet, in the midst of the uncertainty, people gathered. Candles were lit. Prayers were spoken. The human heart still ached for peace, light, meaning and hope.
In moments like this, what does it mean to be the church?
Paul doesn’t suggest a passive response – he prescribes a radical one.
- ‘Bear with the weak’ (verse one).
- ‘Build each other up’ (verse two).
- ‘Live in harmony’ (verse five).
- ‘Welcome one another as Christ welcomed you’ (verse seven).
These aren’t suggestions for peaceful times. They are commands for when the world falls apart.
When fear rises, we don’t retreat. We rise. We lead with love. We open our arms wider. Christ’s people don’t echo the panic of the world; we rest in the enduring. In Christ, we are strong, courageous and grounded in grace.
And when the world feels uncertain, we stand on hope. Not optimism, but defiant, unshakeable confidence in God. Paul says, ‘May the God of hope fill you.’ Not with fear. Not with revenge. But with joy. Peace. Hope.
That’s the kind of hope the world still needs – and the hope God freely gives.
God of unshakeable hope, ignite in us a fierce trust in you. When the world trembles, make us strong. When others divide, make us reconcilers. When fear speaks loudly, let your love speak louder. As we remember the events of 9/11, all these years on, we grieve the loss, lament the brokenness, and pray for peace in a world still aching for healing. Fill us with joy and a bold faith, so that we might shine with your hope in every dark place. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Jane is a former Lutheran school principal and now serves as Governance Leadership Director for Lutheran Education SA, NT & WA. Jane has a keen interest in psychology, enjoys hiking and loves learning about and trying new things.
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