READ: DANIEL 1:1-16
But Daniel made up his mind not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the King. (V. 8)
Every Officer who worked the Lower West Side Beat, E1, knew exactly who resided at 5204 Iroquois Road. We all spent many hours responding to this home to deal with domestic disturbances, known as “family fights!” The crux of the problem was an alcohol dependent father who would physically abuse his wife and two sons. Eventually mom and the two boys turned to alcohol and the circle of substance violence was complete. To my knowledge, this circle remained unbroken during the entirety of my 26-year career.
Domestic abuse characterized by physical, psychological and sexual aggression effects 10-12 million people in the US annually. This is a low figure as this type of crime is vastly underreported by its victims. What I call, the “Iroquois Road Syndrome,” is fueled by substance abuse (55% of domestic violence victims reported substance abuse as a major contributing factor.) It knows no cultural, economic or social barriers, although those from higher socio-economic levels seem to be able to hide the problem for longer periods of time. Mandatory arrest policies, and protection from violence court orders, have helped reduce victim impact and called perpetrators to greater accountability. Yet, despite these programs, the calls for domestic violence flow like a river into 911 centers each day. The circle of violence continues in many families from generation to generation as husbands, fathers, grandfathers and uncles refuse to stand up and take responsibility for their actions. Until they do with firm determination and courage, many lives will continue to be needlessly destroyed.
Daniel speaking for his friends, at the risk of his life, in a culture that did not recognize nor honor God, refused food from the king’s table in favor of nourishment that complied with his Jewish beliefs. He and his friends choose commitment to God rather than allowing themselves to become one in mind and spirit with their pagan captors. This set in motion their future trials which included a blazing furnace and a lion’s den. All to stay true to their faith and maintain their unbroken allegiance to the one true God! Accepting responsibility; standing unified upon the solid rock of their faith; and fully trusting in their Sovereign God; changed the heart of a pagan king and his empire, breaking a circle of unbelief.
PAUSE FOR REFLECTION AND PRAYER
God never sanctions or permits domestic abuse of any type. Men, who comprise the overwhelming heart of the problem, must sincerely repent and welcome Christ into their lives and be willing to stand firm like Daniel to break this circle of violence. The same course of action is required to overcome any problem, addiction or attitude having a negative impact on those whose lives we touch every day. Seize the moment—stand like Daniel and break the circle!!
JESUS, help me accept responsibility for my actions and find the courage to say, “I will serve the Lord in every facet of my life.”