READ: EZEKIEL 37
Then he said to me, “Son of Man these bones represent the people of Israel. They are saying, we have become old dry bones—all hope is gone.” (V. 11)
The word impact has various contextual implications when used in a law enforcement setting. It’s use ranges from describing a violent vehicle crash to reporting the results of new method of policing. The word also has relevance when describing the effects produced upon those choosing a career in law enforcement. During a television interview a newly appointed Chief stated, “that in her 24/7 world, she had learned to answer a call in the middle of the night, make a decision and go back to sleep.” After spending 26 years in police work, I wondered—how truly restful was your sleep?
The impact of a career in law enforcement is observable in the toll taken on one’s family life. Irregular work hours, weekdays off, call outs and required overtime decreased the opportunities for quality family time. Relationships strained and burst from lack of time together. Parenting often became a one-sided affair with birthdays, anniversaries, holidays often celebrated with only one parent present while the other was attending to the safety of the community. Divorce, separation and affairs were often the daily subject of police “shop talk.”
Impact taking the form of cynical talk and instantly judgmental attitudes resulted from a constant barrage of “second guessing” and changing political winds. Impact produced by constant exposure to the negative side of human behavior and lack of consistency within the criminal justice system. Impact produced by not knowing when to turn off the “law enforcers role” creating an “us vs. them” mentality. Impact reflected by the appearance of detached coldness from the constant need to be in control of a situation and the never-ending exposure to needless violence and death. Impact associated with sweaty sleep deprived nights associated when revisiting decisions or actions taken during the course of one’s duties or from involvement in traumatic incidents. Finally, and sadly, impact observable in the number of lives adversely affected by the use of alcohol to dull constant “career pain.”
The” Valley of Dry Bones,’ experienced by Ezekiel, has a direct correlation to what can happen in a law enforcement career if one allows their work to consume and become the sole point for the lives. I learned the hard way that one can significantly reduce career stress if you put Jesus at the center of your life, character and mission. The hazards and negative effects of the police profession remain constant. However, by having a close personal relationship with Christ; reading a lot of Scripture; constantly keeping in prayer and following the lead of the Holy Spirit can transform the “valley of dry bones” into an oasis of positive professional, personal and spiritual impact.
PAUSE FOR REFLECTION AND PRAYER
Your job or Jesus—which is first in your life? The question begs a thoughtful answer from all of us as we begin the new year.
Dear Jesus, thank you for your unfailing love and putting me first in your life. Patiently teach me to put you first in all I do.