Valor and bravery are words we use to describe an individual who goes beyond their personal fears to make a safer area for all of humanity.
While that officer is writing up a ticket, be thankful that he or she cares enough to assist you in a real time of need. The firefighter down the road may one day risk their life to save another's child from a burning dwelling. A nurse, doctor, or just a good neighbor would be glad to come to your aid, especially in this area of the country.
Allow me to take a look at a very special group of men and women we see daily: our military personnel.
Pass by a wreck, or even someone broken down on the highway, and you will invariably find some brave person stopping to lend a hand.
Pick a real need after a storm passes through and, as soon as they are able, they will be out and about, seemingly tireless in their endeavors to assist their neighbor.
A call to lay down their life for you and I? They will not hesitate to do so.
We are constantly reminded of our brave young people. You can barely travel in or out of the area and not be reminded that they are right near us. They are our neighbors and, when they hurt, we too should hurt.
From our region's many military bases comes forth a great cloud of daily witnesses of those who serve this great country.
As a neighbor, I hurt from our area's recent loss of life. We are even now praying for you, as well as the families of those who perished. Their lives will be honored and remembered, as they should be.
My hope is that someone else will pick up the banner, step in and be as brave as they. Someone who can love as deeply, care so selflessly, and serve so valiantly.
We as Christians should live with valor and bravery as well. We, too, have a great cloud of witnesses that have paved the way for us.
David has his men of honor recognized for all eternity in the Bible as he explained their exploits. These were the physical soldiers. In Hebrews 11, we also find a listing of some of those that by faith are recognized for all eternity.
To our guardians: Stand tall and be strong. Our faith warriors will continue to lift you up in prayer and intercession.
To make mention of an old quote, no one stands taller, fights stronger, and prevails more readily than when one stands on their knees.
Think about it.
Rev. Richard Helms serves at Miracle Acres Ministries, 3187 E. James Lee Blvd., Crestview.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: HELMS: Fight, prevail on your knees