Nov 20th, 2021: Praying for Those Who Protect Us

 

I have decided to ask police officers I know to send their prayer requests my way since summer 2020. Many of them have to deal with threats, criticism, and condemnation because of the job. No one would be comfortable with the idea of becoming a target as soon as they put on their uniform.


Many prayers have arrived for the protection and the recovery of officers who got hurt while on duty. Some have been about comfort for those who lost their lives in the line of duty. So what have I learned as I pray for these folks and their families?


Don't look down at those who are willing to protect us with their lives. It is unjust and ungracious. It is a good idea to say thanks to an officer the next time you see one.


Don't pretend that we will never need help to get out of a dangerous situation. Bad things can happen at the moment we least expected. Remember that these officers' job is to run toward danger and not away from it.


Don't assume that police uniform stands for abuse. It is like thinking that wearing Nike shoes means supporting child labour. We can say the same thing about priests, youth workers, and many others. Not all of them are abusers either.


Don't be ignorant about the fact that police officers have families and kids. When people attack them unjustly, they now become abusers towards the families and the kids of these officers.


Don't be ungrateful for the comfort and the safety that we enjoy. It is costly at times.


Now, please join me in prayers for deputy Lena Marshall of Jackson County in Georgia. She got shot while responding to a domestic disturbance call. She remains in critical condition. Remember her family as well.


Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. 

-Deuteronomy 31:6


Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for war and my fingers for battle. He is my steadfast love and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, and in whom I take refuge.

-Psalm 144:1-2

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