Officer Fatalities Create Urgency

As 2007 comes to an end, law enforcement is once again reminded of the dangers in the job. According to the Associated Press "a record number of fatal traffic incidents and a double-digit spike in shooting deaths led to one of the deadliest years for law enforcement officers in more than a decade."

I have tracked the trend in officer deaths for some time. Not only have I tracked the deaths due to my job as a trainer but like many of you, I have also have had personal experience with line of duty deaths. My father's friend and co-worker, Fort Smith (AR) Officer Randy Basnett was killed in the line of duty when I was just five-years old. I remember the pain and sadness very vividly. My wife's father, Oklahoma Highway Patrol Lieutenant James Pat Grimes was killed in the line of duty when she was just four years old. I witness the pain of that event every day.

While we are not ensured of being on this earth for another minute, law enforcement officers are reminded of the fragile nature of life almost every day. Most of those reminders come in the form of a civilian traffic fatality, murder or natural death call. Those reminders also come in the form of an officer being killed in the line of duty.

The Associated Press article should awaken us all. Many of us will read that and think about wearing our vests at all times or more training. As Christians, we should also think and carry out the last instruction that Christ left with us before he ascended into heaven.

Mark 16:15 - And he said to them, Go into all the World, and preach the gospel to every creature.

That instruction by God is to all of us. If he had meant it for just the eleven disciples, the gospel would have died along with them. Every Christian is a disciple and we must carry out this Great Commission.

Despite our excuses, Acts 1:8 tells us that we will be given the ability to witness. This is urgent. Thousands of retired and current law enforcement officers die each year. They must be told about the Law they will be judged on. They must be told about the Gospel. We must do everything we can to make sure our fellow officers do not go to Hell.

Please do your part. If you would like help in The Great Commission, contact Ten-Four Ministries and backup will be provided.