Be Prepared

In my article today, I want to ask if you are person who likes to be prepared. You may ask, prepared for what? Let me explain! Last week, I attended the funeral of Officer Garrett Crumby who was shot in the line of duty. To my surprise, he was the brother-in-law to one of the employees that I serve. After talking to the family and attending the funeral service, it was clear that Officer Crumby was a man who was a diligent worker and a wonderful person. Garrett was disciplined, obedient and came prepared no matter what call came in to the station, he was ready to serve the community. In all the words spoken at the funeral service, Garrett was portrayed as a meek and mild man who was committed to living out the fruits of the spirit while being faithful to his oath, his family and more importantly his Savior. Though his life ended abruptly, it was clear that he was one who strived to represent the city and God’s Kingdom well. Garrett never hesitated when additional assistance was needed because he took his calling serious- both personally and professionally. Though I did not know him directly, I can say from what I’ve heard and witnessed that he took the steps to be prepared in advance and did not waste his days without placing Jesus in the center of his life before he tackled his daily tasks. He was willing to lay down his life everyday because he had a commitment to serve the community. Likewise, he had peace knowing that he was in God’s hands while serving. Even though I am sure that he did not expect to lose his life so soon; he did anticipate the importance of being prepared and ready in all aspects. With this in mind, when he answered the call that morning, he never hesitated. You know why? Because Garrett was confident in Christ and no matter what the circumstance was, he remained obedient and went because he was equipped. So I will ask again- are you prepared for when the Lord calls you home or do you need to search your heart and surrender?

Yet there is one ray of hope:  his compassion never ends. It is only the Lord’s mercies that have kept us from complete destruction.  Great is his faithfulness; his loving-kindness begins afresh each day.  My soul claims the Lord as my inheritance; therefore I will hope in him.  The Lord is wonderfully good to those who wait for him, to those who seek for him.  It is good both to hope and wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.

Lamentations 3:19-24

Chaplain Tracey Burns

Reflection Questions

⦁ Have you prepared your heart in all aspects?

⦁ What steps can you take to make sure you are equipped?

⦁ Do people see you as one who is set apart?

Bonus: Great song (if you are interested)- Do you believe there is “Joy in the Morning” when crisis happens?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uysGt7JVw9U&ab_channel=taurenwellsVEVO