Life On MissionSample

I remember driving up and down the main street of the town I grew up in. That’s what we did for fun on a Friday night in Eastern Oregon, when we weren’t tipping over sleeping cows, we were cruising Main Street. I know, riveting... To make things more exciting, we decided to sit in the bed of my buddy’s pickup truck and launch fireworks out the back as we drove down the street. It was fun until we caught the eye of the police. They followed us until we were right outside the police station.

Laying down in the truck bed I saw the blue and red lights circling, so we promptly sat up. This apparently startled the officers, who pulled their guns on us and started shouting. It was quite terrifying. I was certain I was going to jail and I was certain that I’d need a new pair of pants. I had a respect for authority, but in that moment I was filled with fear of punishment for my actions.

I heard someone once say that if you have a problem with earthly authority, you have a problem with heavenly authority. Often police, politicians and bosses get the brunt of our frustration regarding authority. We fail to recognize that God is the ultimate authority. The way we respect and honor those that have authority in our lives is a mirror to the respect and honor we give to God.

When it comes to government, rulers, authority and the police, don’t be rebellious, judgmental, insensitive, harsh and angry. Rather, be obedient, submissive, patient, understanding and courteous.

During your week, you’ll likely see a police officer or fire fighter at a restaurant, coffee shop or bank. Take a moment and show some gratitude towards them. A simple, “Thank you for serving our city” can go a long ways.

Pray that God gives you the opportunity and boldness to speak kind words to our community servants. Remember, they place themselves in harm’s way for us.