MY TURN: The first First Responder

We’ve heard a lot in the past week and a half about our heroic first responders … the loss of the two brave men who ran toward the danger, the third man, also going toward the danger, wounded and on the long journey of healing … It makes us consider and be grateful for all the courageous, sacrificial men and women that selflessly serve us, our children, our loved ones, our neighbors, all on a daily basis, knowing full well the danger they’ve agreed to step into at a moment's notice on our behalf.

As we’ve just enjoyed a Fourth of July weekend, it bears reflecting on the first responders of the time period in which men and women, facing the reality of the Revolutionary War, did not hesitate to run toward the danger. Forming a ragtag citizen militia, these farmers and merchants stepped up and stepped into the battle, taking it upon themselves to do the right thing and fight for the lives of their families, friends, neighbors and the country. 

But all this gives us pause to reflect on the very first First Responder … the Son of God, Jesus Christ our Savior, friend and rescuer. God’s Word reminds us that He so loved the world, “that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish, but will have eternal life.” That’s the big picture, the eternal life that is offered to each one of us through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

Romans 6:23 tells us that what we get for our sin is death … eternal separation from God. But “the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” He loves us so much, 2 Peter 3:9 tells us “He doesn’t want anyone to be destroyed. Instead, he wants all people to turn away from their sins.”

But in the reality of today … of our struggles right now? He’s. Right. There. Isaiah 65:24 assures us that “Before they call, I will answer; while they are still speaking, I will hear.”

Talk about a first responder! He sees our need before we even speak a word. He is on His way, already present, already working in our behalf. He laid His life down, not only for the chance for us to spend eternity with Him, but to have a relationship with Him today, right now, in the midst of our greatest needs. 

As we honor and remember the brave, sacrificial first responders of our day, and of history, may our hearts and lives be comforted in knowing that Jesus Christ, the first First Responder, laid his life down for you and me, that we might be transformed by that free gift of forgiveness and love.

• • •

Zoe Ann Thruman is a Coeur d'Alene resident.