We are rapidly approaching the day many in the world celebrate Christ’s birth. There will be special church services, holiday parties, gift exchanges, and time away from school and work. I hope you enjoy yourself with friends and family and take time to rest and reflect on the love of God that was made flesh and lived among us. He truly is the reason for this season of love, sharing, and generosity.
I hope that with the closing out of 2016 and the starting of 2017 you will take time in a quiet place to reorient yourself to God and seek Him for your future. Perhaps by taking time to listen, applying some effort and intentional steps of redirection, 2017 may be your best year ever.
CODE 7 ANNIVERSARY:
On December 15, I saw an alert on my Facebook account reminding me of the first Code 7 post I made four years ago. As I re-read the post and reminisced on the small beginnings, I was reminded of some of the amazing things God has done through our combined efforts and your support. Yes, Code 7 is four years old!
From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU for catching the vision with me to support our police departments and bring hope into their workplace. Together, we have shared the love of God with many men, women, and children these past four years. I have seen relationships restored and individual lives strengthened.
Many have been positively influenced through your partnership. Without your support, there would be no Code 7 chaplains or support services for the police families.
HONORABLE RETIREMENT:
I spent most of Thursday, December 15 at the Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) preparing for and attending the retirement ceremony and walkout for Police Chief David Bejarano. After 35 years in law enforcement, Chief Bejarano has stepped aside to retirement.
The first time I met Chief Bejarano, I recall noticing his unforgettable welcoming handshake and embracing look in the eye. He always impressed me with his ability to remember peoples’ names.
I was honored during that meeting to be appointed as the first CVPD Chaplain the department had in over 20 years. I remember watching him pen his personal cell phone number on the back of his business card and told me if I ever needed anything, I could give him a call directly.
My welcome to the police department was unique, but I came to find out it was typical of his style of personal and professional leadership. Chief Bejarano was always polite, hospitable, and generous with praise. Whenever he introduced me, he was complementary and made a point to always thank me publicly for my support and service to the department.
The Chief loved the work of Code 7 and provided me with my first opportunity to formally serve in police chaplaincy. He believed enough in me to allow me to serve in the capacity of police chaplain and entrusted the officers care to me, for which I will always be grateful.
Congratulations, Chief, on your stellar career as Chief. May you enjoy many years with your family and loved ones now that you have come to the end of your watch.
CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAY:
After receiving a large unexpected donation, I decided to give an unexpected treat to some officers. “Freely you have received, freely give.” ~ Jesus (Matthew 10:8) Pictured above is a display I placed at Chula Vista and National City Police Departments. I will be drawing out seven winning tickets and presenting them with a tactical stocking full of fun gifts this year. I reached out to some consistent sponsors and some businesses that mentioned wanting to help on special projects resulting in an overflowing blessing.
The Tactical Christmas Stocking Giveaway idea is so successful that I will also be giving away Code 7 lunchbox coolers along with the stocking so they can carry off all the booty. Merry Christmas, friends! May the Lord bless those who give and receive in a special way. Special credit to the Miller and Perkins families for kick starting this special blessing.
TASK FORCE AWARD:
California Narcotic Officers’ Association (CNOA) region IV presented 2016 Team of the Year award in the end of October at a special banquet. I was invited to present the invocation for the event, and to my surprise it was the CVPD NET that won the regional award. Their excellent work was recognized in the presence of their peers from around the county. Photo touched to conceal identities while on assignment.
TRAFFIC:
There are many calls this season that distress our police officers. When cops sign up for law enforcement, they single out a very noble career and eliminate others. Whether it’s the time change, holiday partying, foolishness, or simple collision, our patrol officers have responded to quite a few major traffic incidents, including fatalities.
The job for a few has become more of a trauma room nurse as they arrive first on scene and attempt to give aid. The nature of the incidents can be unsettling to even the most seasoned officers. Finding a car split in two pieces and looking for occupants in the dark that have been thrown from the vehicles is no easy task. These traumatic scenes occasionally trigger mental and emotional responses requiring attention. Cops are humans first, so please keep our officers in your prayers, and make sure to verbalize appreciation for them if you ever have the opportunity.
FAMILY NEWS:
My Daughter is engaged and I approve. Exciting times ahead!
FINAL THOUGHTS:
Thank you for your support, interest, and prayers for the past 12 months! As you attend Christmas and New Year parties, let’s remember those serving abroad and at home for our safety and freedoms.
You are worth celebrating too! It’s your support that allows us to have such a profound impact on our local law enforcement through our support services.
For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given. Isaiah 9:6
Blessings,
Wes Anderson
Founder/Chaplain Code 7
“Though our feelings come and go, God’s love for us does not.”
C.S. Lewis