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Chaplain\'s Corner - Public Service

March 10, 2023

Mark 10:42-45 says, “Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Jesus points out that being a leader is about humble, loving service. Being a leader is living in unity with those you lead. It is not about arrogant, prideful, self promotion. When we interview or investigate the people we wish to represent us in offices of public service, do we look to character or to charisma? Do we look at test scores or integrity? Do we look into a person’s background for examples of service, and humility? What are some of the ways we can measure these qualities?


I know I am a little biased but I believe most law enforcement officers in this country fulfill this verse. They have authority but they regard themselves as servants to all in their community. They leave for work knowing that today could be the day they get shot at or attacked. They go out and do jobs that no one wants to do, clean up messes that other people make or leave behind and they do it for a small salary.


The Bible tells us that, “By their fruit you will recognize them…” To be great, you must serve. To be a good servant, you must look for opportunities to love, and to perform acts of love, on your people. You must live in unity with your people so that you know what their struggles and needs are. This was the example set by Jesus, the greatest leader of all time.

Charles (Chuck) Gilliland, Chaplain to the National Board and Executive Director

In addition to being a veteran police officer himself, Chuck is also a past president of FCPO-USA and the author of the Through the Eyes of a Cop daily devotional book series. Chuck can be contacted at [email protected]

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