One thing I love about the proverbs of Solomon is the fact that they are simply life observations from a wise man who took the time to learn. When one observes principles of  life, a wise decision can be made when given the choice between two options. In the case of this proverb, the choice is between pride and humility. A confident and skilled person who acts with humility will be honored, but a prideful person (who overestimates themselves) is setting themselves up for humiliation.
   
An ancient rabbi once told this story about humility:
Suppose someone invites you to a wedding feast. Do not take the place of honor. A person more important than you may have been invited. If so, the host who invited both of you will come to you. He will say, ‘Give this person your seat.’ Then you will be filled with shame. You will have to take the least important place. But when you are invited, take the lowest place. Then your host will come over to you. He will say, ‘Friend, move up to a better place.’ Then you will be honored in front of all the other guests. All those who lift themselves up will be made humble. And those who make themselves humble will be lifted up.
   
There are a handful of things I pray for officers each week: safety, peace for your family, favor with the community and recognition/promotion on the job. You make sacrifices to be good at your job and I love to see your efforts recognized. One approach to being recognized is to “make a name for yourself”. Another approach is to do everything with excellence and let others see the work you do. I believe the latter is the approach of humility and I am praying for you this week as you serve with excellence AND humility that you will be honored, recognized and promoted. When that happens, let me know and I’d be honored to attend your promotion ceremony.        
   
Your service is appreciated, 
Pastor Rob

​I got the best news last week when I was told that APD was beginning to allow volunteers to return. It has been a LONG year and I’ve missed West Station...I am SO glad to be back. You’ll see me on Mondays at the back of briefing always as a reminder that you are appreciated and people are praying for you. I want to make sure a week never goes by without at least one person saying “Thank you for what you do”.

Four weeks ago life was getting crazy for everybody and very hard for quite a few as a historic artic front hit our area. Some were hit harder than others, but it was good to see so many people reaching out to help...many while having their own issues to deal with. I am friends with several officers on Facebook and I saw many without power and/or running water taking care of their families and then heading into work. One friend told me, “We live out of town so I made sure my wife had firewood for 12 hours and then I came in to work.”
   
In the midst of all the need that week, I wonder how many  thought about the fact that those serving them (including APD/first responders) were having to face some of those same challenges at home, yet they chose to leave each day to serve others. I didn’t hear complaints, I just saw pictures and heard stories of a mom, dad, spouse or family member taking care of things at home so they could leave for work to help others.
 
Several times that week I thought of this proverb by King Solomon, A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. I spent time that week thanking God for APD, first responders, linemen and others who overcame their own battles to serve those in need. Your job doesn’t exempt you from the same struggles everybody faces and you choosing to help and serve others in the midst of it all does not go unnoticed. I am praying for you this week that you are refreshed as you serve others in the midst of your own life challenges.

Your service is appreciated,
Pastor Rob