Out of the Two comes One - Part Fifteen

In the 22 plus years I’ve worn the uniform of the public servant known as a cop, police, or law enforcement officer, there is one thing that always strikes a nerve with stinging clarity and a sensation of pain. What is this ever present and palpable thing….The death of a fellow officer.

I just had the displeasure, yet the honor, of reading about Englewood, Colorado Police Officer Jeremy Bitner who died as the result of being struck by a drunk driver. He was only 39 years old and left behind a wife and two small kids. We all wear the uniform with the knowledge that death could claim each of us at any given time, and this is a part of the job we accept with a sober and clear mind. But, the idea of this valiant young man’s life ending as the result of the carelessness of a drunk driver makes the sacrifice…the loss, just that much more pointed.

Whenever I’m asked about the comparison between law enforcement and the ministry, this is the one that comes the closes. The willingingness of laying down one’s life for those he or she serves.

Yes, out of two comes one, but I am always quick to remind you that it is out of the ultimate ONE, Jesus Christ, that we get our truest meaning, and deepest identification.  It is why we can say yes to the profession where the very people we come to serve are the ones who threatens our lives. Just saying…think about it