A few weeks ago I stopped at a convenience store/gas station in a large town. I am sometimes a bit apprehensive going into such places of business in large towns because they seem to be a frequent target of criminals.

My concerns were eased when I noticed a police car parked at the pumps. I felt that any would-be robber would be deterred from perpetrating any crime, and that I could safely enter the store and make a purchase.

There is a lot of anti-police sentiment in our nation today. The criminal actions of some officers have been well-publicized, and rightly so. There is no place in our society for the police brutality that happens far too frequently.

However, let us recognize that the vast majority of law enforcement officers are good men and women who are trying to do their jobs well and are striviing to protect the citizens of their communities. Let’s work for social justice, but let’s also show our appreciation for those good officers who risk so much to keep so many safe.

“Blessed are the peacemakers…”—Matthew 5:9.