Briefing: While working patrol in Southeast Dallas in the early 90’s, I had a run of several months where I had the highest activity in my sector. I thought work ethic was all about the numbers. What is your definition of a good work ethic?

Dispatch (Assignment): Read John 2:1-11.

On the Street: How is your work ethic? Does your agency or supervisor keep track of stats? Do they track number and classification of arrests, court cases filed and successfully prosecuted? Do statistics equal good work ethic? I believe that good numbers is a part of a good work ethic but not the major contributing factor.

In this passage, we read about Jesus’ first miracle, turning water into wine. Jesus demonstrates what a proper work ethic should be. He made a lot of wine, somewhere between 120-180 gallons. His numbers were impressive but His quality is what the master of the banquet noticed.

I would bet that if Jesus made wine, it would be the best wine ever made. The master of the banquet thought so, too. After tasting it he called the groom over and said, “Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.” John 2:10 (NIV).

Do you bring your best every time you are called on? With man this is impossible but we can count on God to bring His best every time. Why is this important? When you cry out for God’s help, you don’t have to worry about catching Him on a bad day or at the end of a hard day when He does not want to be bothered. He is our solid Rock we can count on every time.

Investigational Resources: For more on the symbolism of the wedding banquet, read Matthew 22:1-14 and Revelation 19:7.

Officer Safety Principle: Put your trust in God; He is always there.

from The Gospel of John Through the Eyes of a Cop
©by Charles Gilliland. Used by permission.
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