RUNNING FROM THE AUTHORITIES?

It was a glorious Spring day as we arrived at the BBQ place for lunch with friends. As I opened the door for Sue, I looked up to see a Precinct One Constable walking toward me with his hand on his hip. Not good. What did I do wrong? Is my taillight out? Was I speeding? Am I in a handicapped space?

His first words were, “It is great to see a man open the door for his wife!” Guilty as charged, officer. We shook hands and had a nice conversation that included talking about the Lord. As he walked away, I told him to be careful out there, and that I would be praying for him.

Praise God for our police personnel. They don’t get paid enough for the risks they take. Professional sports athletes are paid millions, and often get caught violating the law. Politicians and movie stars pocket absurd salaries, while teachers, police, fire, and military personnel receive a paltry sum for the incredible work that they do. While there may be some “bad apples” in the police department, I have never met them. 99.99% of our police totally deserve our respect, compliance, and prayers.

Thought for the day: Don’t run from the police.

I must admit that when the Constable approached me, guilt filled my mind and flight was an option. But, that was the absolutely wrong response. It is better to face the charge and work through the problem. This reminds me of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. God came looking for them in the cool of the day, but they had hidden themselves. Shame, remorse and fear will cause us to run and hide from authority. This misguided step leads to even more trouble.

Jonah tried to escape from God. The Prodigal son ran. Judas ran. Demas ran. But none could outrun God. The answer is not found in running away. It is found in running to God. The words of Jesus solve the problems of man: “Come unto Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28).” Like the great song by Nicholas Cave/Mick Harvey states: “Come running to the Mercy Seat!”