As I sit down to write this letter, I recall many of the fallen firefighters who went before us. We need to be reminded about how important it is to share the gospel message before that last day comes. Our heavenly Father assigns us two dates. First, the date of our birth and the second, the day we die. We get to select an optional date for eternal life, which can only take place between the dates that God ordains.
Our ministry at Firefighters For Christ is to share as often as we can what Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God." (John 3:3 NLT). Our ministry is designed to encourage and support firefighters throughout the world with the message of salvation for the lost souls that we encounter each day.
We have a tradition in the Los Angeles County Fire Service of presenting the family with a flag that has been flown over the departing firefighter's last assignment. As the Honor Guard makes the 12 folds of the flag, we read the significance of each fold.
Although we are an international ministry, I would like to share one method we use in America utilizing the American flag to start a conversation that will hopefully lead to sharing the gospel message:
The Meaning of the Flag Folds
The first fold of the flag is a symbol of life.
The second fold is a symbol of our belief in the eternal life.
The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veteran departing our ranks.
The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him that we turn to in times of peace as well as in times of war for His divine guidance.
The fifth fold is a tribute to our country.
The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
The seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all her enemies.
The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, and to honor our mothers.
The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, love, loyalty and devotion, that the character of the men and women who have made this country great have been molded.
The tenth fold is a tribute to our fathers, for they too, have given their sons and daughters for the defense of our country.
The eleventh fold, in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen, represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon, and glorifies, in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
The twelfth fold, in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, "In God we Trust."
Thank you for allowing me to serve.
In Jesus name,
Joe