Tragedy, unfortunately, is a frequent visitor to the law enforcement family. Officers and their loved ones often face loss and grief more acutely than the average person. We mourn, and then, as community gatekeepers and guardians, we must move forward. But what lies beyond death? Is there anything? Nothingness? Heaven? Hell? The Abyss? These are questions that haunt us in moments of profound loss.
Everyone possesses faith, even those who reject organized religion. Atheists hold the faith that nothing awaits them beyond this life. Agnostics have a deferred faith, awaiting conclusions they have yet to reach. Every organized religion offers a belief system that leads to an eternal path. But what happens when these different perspectives collide, especially in the face of tragedy?
I don’t seek to convert anyone to my personal Christian worldview. However, I am willing to share why I find solace and hope within it, especially during difficult times. My brother, Jon McNeff, pastors NorthCreek Church in Walnut Creek, California. Recently, he delivered a message of hope following the funeral of an 18-month-old girl who tragically drowned in a backyard swimming pool. Jon is no stranger to such sorrow, as his own three-year-old son suffered a similar fate 35 years ago. This personal experience lends profound weight to his words.
Beyond historical evidence, overwhelming documentation, archeological discoveries, and scientific data supporting the resurrected Christ, I find the peace experienced during times of sorrow to be compelling evidence. Listening to Jon’s message, titled “Death, Be Not Proud,” inspired the following poem:
When tragedy strikes, sorrow walks with me Uninvited, I want it to flee The ministry of presence, will comfort thee No words, or verse, just sit quietly
Rays of darkness interrupt the light Yet without dark, we don’t know what’s bright It is not death that is tragedy But passing from life, unrepentantly
Ask questions of God, he is not afraid The answers revealed, in Scripture are made Suffering and mercy; and God’s sovereignty It all adds up, to his love for me
In crippling pain, I am against the rope Hence grace and assurance, he offers me hope Thank you Jesus, for taking my pain Resurrected with you, forever we’ll reign
If you have questions regarding the Christian worldview, I invite you to visit badge145.com. There, you will find many answers to life’s challenging questions using the Bible as a foundation.
As a footnote, Jon and his wife Anne had two more children after their son Charlie passed away. Their youngest son Pete (my nephew) is now a police officer of Pleasanton Police Department in Northern California. As always, be safe, but also be certain about your future.