Briefing: Are you committed to the officers in your department? How far would you go for your fellow officer?

Dispatch (Assignment): Read Romans 9:1-5.

On the Street: Paul sets such a great example for us all in this passage. His heart breaks for all of the Jewish people. He has such a desire for them to come to a saving knowledge of Christ that he is willing to give up his own relationship with Jesus.

I believe most of us could relate to this if it were written about our spouse and our children. These are the people we love and care most about in this world. But do we love our fellow officers this much? Do you mourn for their lost souls? Do you pray for their salvation and relationship with Jesus Christ?

We are called to love everyone in this world but there are commands that tell us to have an even deeper love for those in our family. Paul includes all Jews in his special family. I want us to consider all of the men and women in law enforcement as our special family; all the ones who are called and set apart. Galatians 6:10 says, "So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith."

As one of the chosen children of God who serve in law enforcement, you must allow your heart to be broken for the lost and to share the hope you have in Jesus Christ with them. You and I have the words of life and death in us. What words are we going to share with them? Galatians 6:1-2 says, "Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

Colossians 3:12-14, "So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity."

This is your family. Your fellow officers are the ones you say you will take a bullet for. If you are that committed to them then I have a question for you. When was the last time you shared your faith with anyone in your department? This is life and death. How committed are you?

Investigational Resources: Romans chapter 12 and 1 Corinthians chapter 12.

Officer Safety Principle: You can share faith by your actions but are you sharing your testimony with your words?

from The Book of Romans Through the Eyes of a Cop
©by Charles Gilliland. Used by permission.
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