READ: PSALM 46
Be still and know that I am God! (V. 10)
President John F. Kennedy, in 1962, proclaimed May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day which begins at sunrise and ends at sunset. That same year National Police Week was established by a joint resolution of Congress, this year encompassing May 11-16. The week provides special recognition for those law enforcement officers who have given their lives in the “line of duty.” This year, the special Candlelight Vigil will be held on Wednesday, May 13th. The motto of National Police Week is “Respect, Honor and Remember.”
Members of the law enforcement family gather at many memorial services across the country to pay tribute to the fallen heroes of their respective departments. The names of those who gave the last full measure of their lives “to protect and serve” their communities are read; short comments of remembrance and thanks are offered by departmental and community members; candles are lighted; prayers are offered; shotgun salutes are sounded and taps are played. The candles give silent witness to the honorable sacrifices made by those who faithfully served until they drew their last breath. They sacrificially served and never once hesitated to lay down their lives rather than swerving from the path of duty. Their unselfish dedication is the mortar which holds fast the firm foundation of law enforcement—a foundation that will never be shaken, cracked or rendered asunder. Since 1776, 27,359 of our Brothers and Sisters of the Badge have paid the ultimate price in the line of duty. We will never allow their names to be shrouded by antiquity. May 15th, and the entire week of May 11-16, is “A Time to be Still” and reflect upon the sacred God sanctioned work of law enforcement.
Psalm 46 reminds us that God is always with us. He provides refuge, security and peace. He will not fail to rescue, protect and provide for those who love Him. His power is complete, just, righteous, and filled with compassion. His mercy and grace are never ending. His love is beyond compare. We are mere grains of sand in his vast sovereign creation, yet he chose to give us Christ, who freely and obedient to His will, gave up his life for our forgiveness, salvation and eternal life. Too much to fathom—then we need to be “still and know He is God!”
PAUSE FOR REFLECTION AND PRAYER
Our fallen law enforcement brothers and sisters are sorely missed here on earth but have been accorded a special place in God’s Heavenly Kingdom. We need to always remember to pay respect for their service; honor them for their sacrifice; and remember the legacy of integrity, sacrifice and honor they have set in place for future generations of those who answer the call to become “Soldiers of the Law.”
Dear Father God, we humbly beseech you to continue to be the refuge, strength and protector of every member of our law enforcement family. Help us to be still in your presence and reflect upon your majesty, power, grace and love.