Today in NYC, a 22 year old, newly married, police officer was laid to rest. He succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday, after he and another officer were shot in an ambush during the weekend. His partner, also in his 20’s, was killed immediately during the tragedy.
Yesterday, I heard a story about the 22 year old officer’s family keeping him on life support, so his organs could be donated. The family had to make a hard decision to remove the young officer from life support because he was not going to be able to survive, but they let him be a hero once again by donating his organs.
When I heard the story of these young officers, a verse came immediately to my mind. John 15:13 says, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” (ESV). These two men went out and did a job not many people care to do these days, and tragically they lost their lives doing what they felt called to do. They were willing to go out and protect the citizens of their community, even if it meant losing their lives.
For every man or woman who goes out to serve and protect, I thank you! As we grieve for these many officers who have lost their lives, may we find comfort in the true Comforter. Jesus promises to be near to us during times of grief. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is near to the broken-hearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” (ESV).
We have a wonderful Savior who promises to never leave our side. Thank any officer you know today. They need our love and encouragement more than ever.
Digging Deeper 