formerly Gesher

"surrounder's letter september-october, 2001 monthly communications about the work of the Winer Foundation.

the september 11th tragedy

September – October, 2001

Dear Friend:

On September 11, 2001, the United States was attacked killing nearly 7000 people. Many are asking how such a thing could happen. In times like this, one needs a root, a dependable foundation to turn to for answers. Scripture provides a framework for not only understanding such a cataclysmic event, if such a thing is possible, but also for personal guidance as to what if anything one might consider doing.

–– Consider Yourself Blind

Then He came to Bethsaida; and they brought a blind man to Him, and begged Him to touch him. So He took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the town. And when He had spit on his eyes and put His hands on him, He asked him if he saw anything. And he looked up and said, "I see men like trees, walking." Then He put His hands on his eyes again and made him look up. And he was restored and saw everyone clearly. Then He sent him away to his house, saying, "Neither go into the town, nor tell anyone in the town." (Mk. 8:22-26, NKJV)

When an a unexpected and dark event happens, people are sure to form strong opinions about it and usually they're not shy about telling them to us. Also, we've come to expect television to provide us with historical, political, and social experts who comment and often make conclusions about the situation. As a result, people seldom take enough time to consider fully their own viewpoint, even after life-changing events such as this one. Here's a suggestion on how to do it: When you begin, imagine yourself to be like the blind man who's determined to find sight. Imagining you're "blind" is a way to get in touch with your limited human understanding. By this, you humbly assert your human lack, in effect, saying, "I can't see this situation clearly. I don't know why it happened. I know I need help to see it from a deep and full perspective."

–– Go to One with the Answer

In such a situation, no human can give another the "right" answer or reason – explanations that can truly satisfy and begin to heal the wounded heart. For this, we must all go, as the blind man did, to the One with the answer.

–– You Must Get Out of Town to Get Your Answer

There's an absolute need for us to go "out of town," to receive "our answer." Follow in the blind man's footsteps by separating yourself from the news reports and distractions of life to be alone with God. There, you will begin the process of "seeing" the possibilities (removal of blindness) and receiving personal healing. Separation provides time, space, and clarity to pray for yourself and others, find answers, and to be comforted. "Out of town" represents the place where we are touched by God's mercy, receiving both what we need and tasting fully of His goodness.

–– Stay There Long Enough and Some Things Must Remain Hidden

Healing the blind man took two attempts. And unless we, too, are willing to stay "out of town" long enough we risk missing some part of God's complete work in this situation. Finally, I suggest that even after you've received your answer, that you keep it to yourself. The completely-healed blind man was told not to tell anyone about it. I suspect it was because the time for speaking about it was not yet ripe. So, too, in this tragedy I sense that the wound is too new, too grievous, and for that reason, people cannot yet receive even the most compassionate answer as to the "why."

–– What You Can Do

The Winer Foundation's vision of "one person who cares can make a difference" compels us to help the victims of this terrible U.S. tragedy. We have started the September 11, 2001 Victim Memorial Fund (Click here to view information on this and our other work -- "How You Can Help the Winer Foundation"). Please consider a generous donation to this fund.

–– Our Expanded Work Needs Your Help

As always, we thank you our partners for your prayer and financial gifts. Without you we cannot fulfill the work God has called us to do. Also, please do not forget the Beta Yisrael people.

• Your gift of $75 houses an Ethiopian family of 7-10 for one month.
• Your gift of $120 feeds an Ethiopian family for a month.
• Your gift of $180 feeds a single Ethiopian for a year.
• Your gift of $250 gives significant help to a needy Beta Yisraeli in Israel.

May God richly bless you and grant you His comfort,

Robert I. Winer, M.D.

P.S. For more updates on our work, visit our website at www.winerfoundation.org

P.P.S. I'd like to you to get to know me better by giving you a gift. Drop me a note in the return envelope and I'll send you my book, "Ten Commandments for Success: Unlocking Principles of Prosperous Personal, Business, and Family Living from the Life of Moses" or "Heartwords," my inspirational CD of 16 - 5 minute messages.

if you need any further information, contact us:

Winer Foundation po box 33373 philadelphia, pa 19142 info@winerfoundation.org phone: 215-365-3350 fax: 215-365-3325