Week celebrates peace officers

In 1962 President Kennedy signed a proclamation which designates May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day. It is a day that honors those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice protecting us, the public.

It has grown into National Police Week. May 12-18 is a week where we recognize not only those who have died but also a week to show our appreciation to all law enforcement for their dedication to serving and protecting us. Here in our county it is the Priest River Police Department, the Sandpoint Police Department, the Ponderay Police Department, the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office and Jail as well as federal law enforcement.

The focus of this week is to show our appreciation to all law enforcement. To better understand what being in the shoes of someone who’s career or call is to make a positive difference, imagine greeting someone on the side of a highway or knocking on their door and not knowing how well you’ll be received.

Could this simple encounter go sideways or will it be civil. Knowing the risk these men and women take for us, how might we be the church and show our appreciation for their service, dedication and protection.

Here’s an idea, “Love our neighbor as ourself.” Mark 12:31 and don’t forget cookies.

Bruce Macek is pastor of Newman Community Bible Church, 9230 Sagle Road.