Ministry opportunities galore! That is all I can say about my current life with Code 7. Even during the days last month when I had a bum knee and felt ineffective because I didn’t get into a patrol car as often as I wanted, God was at work behind the scenes. He was putting together all the details to accomplish His desires. Through it all, I was reminded that His plan is not about my schedule or expectations; it’s about His big picture view.
June set a new record for Code 7 Blessing Giveaways. By month’s end we were able to send six officers out to enjoy a meal and activities with their loved ones. This was all made possible by your giving and the generous support from local restaurants. Added this month include a beach day from Surf Hut and meals at Oggi’s, Panera Bread, Memela’s Thai-Mex, Macaroni Grill, and Chick-fil-A.
As I delivered lunch to a couple of officers one day, I found myself smack dab in the center of the matchless work of God. He had been speaking to each officer individually in small but unique ways, and when I followed through what I believed God asked of me, He meet each one of them in a special way. God continues to surprise me and puts me in the middle of things I have no idea He was doing. Your life is the same. I encourage you to listen for His direction and then follow through with what He says. The results are glorious.
Department promotions and the semiannual schedule changes in July will bring new opportunities for me to build relationships. One officer said he is glad for the afternoon shift. He asked if I would go mountain bike riding with him after work every week. I, of course, agreed. Adventure awaits! God can use whatever methods He desires to draw all men to Himself. I’m humbled each time He uses me.
I was able to participate last week in the Police Officer Bicycle Patrol Training with 14 officers from around Southern California. Our ride concluded in front of the Law Enforcement Memorial at Chula Vista Police Department. I said a prayer there for the entire group and for the families of the fallen officers. It was a very surreal moment when I found out one of the names on the memorial was a close friend of one of the officers in the riding class. Every day at work has life and death implications to the brave men and women in law enforcement. Please remember to pray regularly for them.
Water? That question comes up every time we get ready to go on patrol. Either you have some or you need some.
Often, the first stop out of the station is at 7-11 or Circle K. Hydration is important not only in the summer months but anytime in San Diego. Dehydration is a villain to cops. Drinking water is a great way to flush chemicals produced by stress and adrenalin. I was thinking, what if Code 7 placed a refrigerator at the PD and made water available at all times for the patrol officers?
Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life. -Jesus (John 4:14)
I ran the idea by the Police Chief yesterday, and he thought it was a great idea. I picked up a refrigerator and set it all up at the PD today. Simple and practical. Best part, God provides.
Oh, I almost forgot, Code 7 provided a healthy squad meal on Father’s Day.
Remember, God has plans for you that are far more complex and intricately intertwined through the lives of others than you can imagine. Adventure awaits us all!
Thank you again for your interest in the work of Code 7 and your support of the officers’ spiritual care. If the Lord provides an offering, please consider the ministry of Code 7.
Blessings,
Wes Anderson
Founder/Chaplain Code 7