Three years ago this day the intentional bombing of the Murrah Center in Oklahoma City caused unprecedented grief and heartache for the American people. Our church, through Lutheran Disaster Response, was there at once to provide counseling and support. That commitment continued through the years, as counseling continued and support was shown to survivors and to victims' families who attended the two federal trials held in Denver, Colorado. Our church, through LDR and numerous Lutheran partners, was there at once, to help meet initial needs through the chaotic emergency stage, and to provide volunteer clean up and supplies through the relief stage. Our church continues to be present and active in this second year as recovery efforts continue.
Today is a day for the church to remember and to renew.
As we remember our brothers and sisters in Oklahoma City and those who continue to be affected by last year's blizzards and floods in North and South Dakota and Minnesota-we also remember so many others whose lives have been affected recently by natural and intentional disasters. And we renew our commitment as the church to continue the recovery and rebuilding effort in the upper Midwest. We renew our commitment to bring support and consolation to families and community members in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Indeed, we resurrection people show the risen Christ alive in us as we extend our hands in love to others, even as Jesus Christ has extended his hands in love to us. Please remember all whose lives have been touched by disasters.