Dear Missionary Lady,
Greetings in the name of our wonderful Savior. Forgive me if I vary from my normal content, but I just returned from watching the processional of a fallen police officer as his body was returned from the hospital where he was pronounced dead to our city where he died in the line of duty on March 31st. Through these past days and again as I waited for the processional, I have thought on many things.
First thought. As we waited for over an hour alongside the highway, people's eyes were fixed down the road to the east as far as they could see. People were waiting and searching and looking for the first glimpse of the procession's arrival. I was reminded of the diligent waiting and searching and looking for the return of our Savior. It could be today. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
Second thought. The sunshine made it a tolerable day, but there was a chilly breeze blowing. Perhaps it was inconvenient to wait as I did for an hour and a half. But my wait in the somewhat chilly air was nothing compared to what this officer did. He served for 40 years before giving his life in the service of our community. What sacrifice is it really to wait a short time in his honor? Likewise, our lives on this earth can be filled with inconvenience, trouble, and trial. But what is that in comparison with what Jesus did for us? Ought we not to gladly serve Him in gratitude for His work on our behalf? Even the most that we ever do falls far short of matching what He has done. Any sacrifice that we make or inconvenience that we suffer is insignificant in comparison.
Third thought. Lieutenant Lebo gave his life for others. Police officers often serve in a thankless job, even suffering ridicule while they sacrifice, usually with the best of intentions. Jesus gave His life for others. He is also not thanked as much as He should be and is often mocked and ridiculed, although His heart was full of the purest love ever.
Fourth thought. Lieutenant Lebo is the first officer killed in the line of duty in our city since 1903, but he is one of many, many officers who have given their lives through the years and around the world. Their lives and their service make a difference, but the job of law enforcement in this sinful world never ends, and more will die. Jesus accomplished something through His death. He was the sacrifice that completed redemption once for all. He accomplished an unmatched deed with no need for further sacrifice.
Fifth thought. One life can make a difference. This officer's life certainly did. Jesus’ life did like no other life ever has. He calls each of us with our lives to make a difference. It is not up to us how to do that. It is not up to us how long we get to do that. It is not even up to us to determine our own effectiveness. It is up to us to be faithful. When we give ourselves as Romans 12:1 exhorts, God uses us as He deems best.
Well, those are some of my musings. I could have added some Bible verses, but I’m sure that your minds have gone to some of the verses that correspond with these thoughts. I trust that something in this will have stirred your heart in some way as you continue to faithfully serve our Savior. God bless.
Love in Christ,
Peggy Holt
member at Open Door Baptist Church in Lebanon, PA
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