I am reading a book about the life of John F. Kennedy and what really hits hard is his famous line, "...ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country," this was delivered during his inaugural address on January 20, 1961. It was a call to public service and sacrifice, urging citizens to prioritize the nation's needs.

It has been making me think about service and sacrifice which brought me back to the three core values of the U.S. Air Force which are Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

All of this then brought me back to the Bible. 

Romans 12:6-8

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.

All of this hit me hard and I felt it needs to be applied to the Fire Department. All Firefighters should ask not what your Department can do for you—ask what you can do for your Department. It is a call to public service and sacrifice, urging Firefighters to prioritize the Departments needs.

Integrity First

Service Before Self

Excellence in All We Do

We all have God given gifts and we must not waste those gifts. It is our duty and obligation to use our gifts to help our Brothers and Sisters as God intended. Life is not about comfort. We are meant to work. When we use our God given gifts we can accomplish so much more than we can imagine because God will continue to guide our steps. Our God given gifts are for his Glory not ours.

Use your gift to fulfill God's purpose for your life. Every blessing is more than a gift—it’s a calling. What God places in your hands is meant to be nurtured, multiplied, and used with purpose. When you steward it well, your blessing becomes a testimony that points back to Him.

Service Before Self

FORGED - IRON SHARPENS IRON