Let’s Find a Better Way Forward Than Defunding the Police

Our entire nation has been grieving for more than two weeks over the murder of George Floyd at the hands of a uniformed officer of the law. We know he is not alone as a victim of a wrongful death at the hands of law enforcement. We also know many of those killings over the years have been racially motivated. This kind of behavior cannot be tolerated and changes need to be made so that police unions cannot block removal of officers with repeated offenses like this. The outcry from all parts of the country in this unprecedented season should motivate all police departments to scrutinize their systems and practices to ensure they truly deal justice.

However, the vast majority of law enforcement officials do what they do because they want to see justice and liberty for all people. They work hard and put themselves in crime’s way every day at a fraction of the pay they deserve so we can all have the best lives possible. Seasons like this call to attention the need to make changes that will ensure all people – regardless of race – and all neighborhoods – regardless of social status – enjoy the same peace, freedom from violence, and freedom of opportunity

The recent calls to “defund the police” will not accomplish this desired future. We do not want to return to the violent streets of the 1970s and 1980s. Yes, change needs to continue to be made, but let’s not forget the officers who gave everything to bring about the incredible drop in crime since those days.  

It would be wonderful if everyone would just get along and be nice to one another, but until Jesus returns, sin will be a part of the human experience. As the apostle Paul points out in Romans 13:1-5, God's plan includes government and law enforcement. “The one in authority is God’s servant for your good.” (Romans 13:4, NIV) We just need to find a way to ensure those with that authority and power use it justly, fairly, and for the good of all.

Keira and I loved the multi-church, multi-racial prayer gathering we joined at Faith Celebration Church on Saturday. Three hours of prayer for justice, peace, and reconciliation was culminated by a time of seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Several different African American church leaders in the room sensed the Spirit calling them to host a family dinner for Lakeland police officers and African American church leaders to sit down at the table together and build understanding and relationships. This kind of unity and understanding is the key. YES, we need justice and equality, but, YES, we also need men and women of good character willing to enforce the law with fairness and equity to enable all to have justice. Let’s all work together to make this a reality.