Sometimes the fire service is called upon to do difficult things for their departments. When the storms of hurricane Katrina struck the south in 2005 and hurricane Sandy in 2012 many firefighters and first responders lost their homes in the devastation. Despite the personal loss, first responders continued to serve their communities. During the dark days after September 11, 2001 firefighters continued to answer alarms despite the loss of so many brothers and sisters.
When departments are asked to “do more with less” in these financially trying times, first responders continue to serve because they love the job. This love encourages us to keep going when others would quit. We in the fire service do this not because we have to, but because we love to. Jesus Christ never forces anyone into obedience.
When we read the Bible we discover what we ought to do, but Jesus never insists that we do it. A Christian first responder should be willing above all else to become obedient because they love the Lord. Just like our love for the job, the love of God should compel us to live a life that is pleasing to Him. When we are asked to do a difficult job for the Lord, our love for Him should cause us to follow, no matter the circumstances. When we find ourselves not wanting to be obedient to Jesus, it is typically because we love something else more. The love of wealth, fame, position, or prestige can hinder us from serving God in the fire service. But when we willingly obey Jesus Christ, others in our department will witness what true love really is. Lord, help me to be obedient to Your word today. May everything I say and do be pleasing to you.
Encouragement, pass it on!!
