We have been knee deep in issues with little time to come up for air. This week however, when we finally settled in and turned on the television, we heard the devastating news of the four fighters that perished in a fire.
Coming from our background, it was chilling to watch the four "escorted" out of the location by ambulance. It is a scene all to often repeated in my 30 year career. You never get use to it. The bagpipe tunes, the wall of honor, the salutes, the badge cover, the finality and of course the family. So many times I heard the statement "Well that's what they chose to do." You're right. That is a calling it is not "just a job."
It takes heart to run into danger. We don't wake up and say "today is my last day." Those four heros had no control of that fire and the descruction that took their life, just like we have no control over our days. God called them to their eternal home.
These four individuals saved many lives. I have seen several interviews where individuals said "they saved my life." I have heard some say "they put their life on the line for me."
While these firefighters went into the fire, they were not alone. Many may question why they did not make it out. My response to that is simply that our ways are not God's ways [Isaiah 55:9]. God has a plan and while the future may look bleak or our hearts may be broken, God will never leave us or forsake us [Deuteronomy 37:8].
While our society idolizes singers, performers, rock stars, millionaires, and athletes, these four figherfighters are true heros. They gave the ultimate sacrifice to the city they serve and a community they were a part of. There is no greater gift. Our prayers are with their families.
Two thousand years ago, Christ gave his life so that we might live. His love for us held him to that cross. This week, he held these four in his arms.
Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13
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