A Sea of Blue

I served my law enforcement servants today at the CHP memorial for Officer Andrew Stevens. It was an honor to do so and especially stand with my hand across my heart as the family's limo passed by. An awesome site, all those units in Adventure's parking lot. I saw units from all over the state in addition to the CHP. Yolo County Sheriff, Concord PD, San Francisco PD, the list went on and on. The Roseville and Rocklin Fire Departments set up a hook-n-ladder each in front of the entry to ACC with a giant American flag hanging below their baskets to greet the mourners. A seeming forest of boom TV antennas had sprouted in the passenger drop off loop to the auditorium. The governor arrived shortly after the family procession, along with Phil Angelides, other state folks and a representative from Washington DC as well. Adventure was swimming with VIPs and yet no one seemed to notice them.

The service started out with a brief intro by Adventure's Senior Servant Leader, and was followed by a CHP duo singing Amazing Grace unaccompanied. That sent chills down my spine. His commanding officers followed with their eulogies including his captain who referred to himself as appearing like Yoda compared to Stevens' Luke Skywalker. His only wish was that he would have always had something wise to say to his officer. He remarked that something Stevens always said to him will remain with him forever in Stevens would ask, "How can I help you today?"

A servants heart. Officer Stevens it turns out was a born again Christian and "didn't want his faith hidden" according to his widow. So his pastor gave a deeply moving sermon exhorting everyone to believe in their Savior. I suppose Officer Stevens was watching and "sitting on the edge of his chair" just like his Lord, waiting for just one prayer to be offered in that way. If his death meant just one soul would be given eternal life, I wonder what he would say? A deeply moving and faithful service for Officer Stevens.

Rest in Peace Brother. I look forward to meeting you someday.