By Pastor Rob Norris

“The horse is prepared for the day of battle, but victory belongs to the LORD,” (Proverbs 21:31).

On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, former Staff Sergeant, David Karnes, was watching the horrific events unfold on television at his office in Connecticut. But this ex-Marine – now an accountant – felt more than pain and sympathy. He felt a call to action.

Leaving his office, he proceeded to the barbershop for a “high and tight” haircut. Then he picked up his starched camouflage fatigues at home. Grabbing some basic rappelling gear, he jumped back into his car, swung by his church for prayer with his pastor, and then headed for lower Manhattan.

Despite numerous roadblocks, his military demeanor provided him clear passage right into the heart of Ground Zero. And from there, along with another volunteer, he helped pull the final two survivors from the smoldering wreckage of the World Trade Center.

We can learn a lot from David Karnes about how to deal with the crises that we all face at times in life. First, he was ready. When the time came to respond, he knew where his stuff was. He wasn’t caught careless and unprepared.

Second, he was humble. Despite his warrior mentality, his first response was to pray and to seek God’s direction and strength.

Third, he acted. He threw his courage and convictions into the fight at the risk of his life.

Are you spiritually prepared for what may come ahead? Are you ready to act when the time comes? I believe the great need today is for men and women who are willing to engage real-life issues, instead of doing nothing.

Live It:  While you reflect back, discuss opportunities that may exist around you that may need your help. Talk about your willingness and readiness to step into the life of another.

Pray:  Pray that the Lord will protect our nation and world in the future from such pointless evils as what happened on 9/11. Also pray that He will use you as a couple to touch the lives of others.

Join us for Family Month in September.

The Crossings meets Sundays, 10 a.m., at River Heights Intermediate, 7227 Scholar Way, in Eastvale. For more information, call (951) 847-6836, or visit http://www.atthecrossings.com.