Refreshing Others

​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