Twenty-five years after September 11, 2001, Karen Baker shares how surviving the attack on the Pentagon became the catalyst that led her to a saving faith in Jesus.

Karen had been seeking God since childhood, but for years she thought following Him required choosing the right denomination, understanding religious rules, or fitting into a formal structure. Then 9/11 changed everything.

Karen was working inside the Pentagon on September 11, only one corridor away from where American Airlines Flight 77 struck the building. In the aftermath, her work in media relations brought her alongside people grieving unimaginable loss. She watched as people turned to God not only for comfort, but for strength, guidance, and help with everyday life. Her own mortality became very real, and so did her need to get right with God.

One year later, on the first anniversary of 9/11, Karen was baptized in the Pentagon chapel built at the site of the attack - publicly declaring her faith in Jesus on the very ground where tragedy had transformed so many lives.

In this special episode honoring the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Jessica Cabrera talks with Karen about finding Jesus after tragedy, discovering that faith is about following Him rather than a denomination, and the lessons she has learned through 25 years of walking with God. Karen's story is a powerful testimony that God is present even in our darkest hours, continually seeking us, guiding our steps, and bringing beauty from ashes.

Key Takeaway

The tragedy of 9/11 awakened Karen to her mortality and her need for a Savior, but tragedy did not have the final word. Twenty-five years later, her story testifies that God meets us in our darkest circumstances, draws us into a personal relationship with Him, and can bring beauty from ashes.

Related Bible Verses

Isaiah 61:1-3 (NASB) — "He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted..." / "Giving them a garland instead of ashes..."

Psalm 46:1-3 (NASB) — "God is our refuge and strength, A very ready help in trouble."

John 14:6 (NASB) — "I am the way, and the truth, and the life..."

Romans 10:9-10 (NASB) — "If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved..."

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NASB) — "Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding."

Listener Resources & Next Steps

New to the Bible? Read the Gospel of John.

Do you want a relationship with God too?

If you have never made the choice to accept Jesus' offer - a gift, not by works - to be restored to the original design for your life, which is a relationship with God, now is the time. There is an article in Jessica's Engage Faith Column that will help you understand who He is, who you are, what choice you have, and what happens when you make the decision.

Visit What Is the Message of the Gospel? to read the message of God's good news for mankind and to find a sample prayer that you can pray today.

The importance of a Biblical faith community:

All listeners are encouraged to engage in a local church community to learn more about Jesus, the Bible, and to experience God through community. Listeners from the Northern Virginia area are welcomed at Burke Community Church. We are not designed to be alone; we're designed for a community of faith.

To stay connected:

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