Protect & Serve

Galatians 5:13-14 "For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself"

Only if you've been living under a rock have you not heard/read about the tragedy the residents of Ferguson, MO has experienced this past week. All confidence and trust in the law enforcement officers has been lost. Taking an oath to protect and serve the people of your city, county, or community is a highly distinguishable position; when that oath is upheld. Their duty is to protect us and serve us by enforcing the law properly. The keyword here is "properly". I have mentioned several times over the years how police officers have adopted a "shoot first, ask later" mentality. The issue is long overdue for addressing and my deepest sympathy goes out to the family who has to be the "guinea pig" for such behavior.

What does it really mean to protect and serve? No one knows that better than Jesus who has protected us from our own sinful nature and humbled Himself enough to serve God's people while He was here on earth. Although Jesus was in fact a superior to each and everyone He encountered He still responded with love in every situation. By no means am I saying police officers are to be like Jesus; however, we should all strive to exhibit His characteristics. Yes, I do believe that the Bible and the life of Jesus Christ is a model for how we are to behave and treat one another. Perhaps if more people adopted this mindset we would live in a much more peaceful communities. Jesus led by example as should public servants such as police officers. They should exemplify following the law that they are enforcing versus trying to be exempt from it to justify misconduct.

Imagine if Jesus took advantage of the power He had as the Son of God? What if He had approached people with aggressiveness instead of sincere compassion? The gospels probably wouldn't exist because His purpose wouldn't have been fulfilled. It seems as though police officers have forgotten their purpose as public servants. Even I, as a city level government Microbiologist, have been lectured on the importance of my duties as a public service employee.  

In this present moment it is our time to stand up for what we know is right. Instead of thinking of ourself as a helpless individual we must stand together and be hopeful. Not every police officer is corrupt; however, one bad apple will make you skeptical about the whole bunch. As followers of Christ we have to be diligent in prayer for our people during such a tragic time.

HANDS UP...DON'T SHOOT

HANDS UP...PRAISE HIM