Search This Blog

Sunday, December 22, 2019

Gently Instruct

"Again I say, don’t get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth. Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil’s trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants." - 2 Timothy 2:23–26


With the recent events happening in the City of Houston, there are a lot of mixed feelings and emotions in the department. A lot of those are negative and are affecting those around us. Being in the service of taking care of others, we need to focus on continuing to do just that. We should thoughtfully and gently take care of each other and those who call on our help. Gentle truth may not necessarily come in the form of words. It can be shared though kindness, hospitality, actions, teaching and sacrifice. Continually encourage others and yourself to be patient (especially with difficult people), kind, and thoughtful.

Keep the faith that the sacrifices you've made for this city and your family will pay off later, and that God will take care of your every need. Know that honoring God in everything we say and do is vitally important.
-FF Sam Hascek
Rescue 42B

Sunday, December 15, 2019

In Your Anger...



“In your anger do not sin. Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry..." -Ephesians 4:26
God has created us with a great emotional complexity. As image bearers of God, we have the same capacity for emotion as our Heavenly Father. We however, are not God and tend to make a mess of things when we are angry. In our anger we yell at our spouses, children, patients, co-workers, the car in front of us. We slam doors, punch walls, and kick dogs. We make irrational and sometimes irreversible decisions. Uncontrolled anger can ruin our relationships and lives. 

We act out in anger, as opposed to other emotions, because anger makes us feel empowered. We usually become angry because we can't control our current situation. Anger is our attempt at regaining that control. In doing so, we often try to control those closest to us through aggression. Control of our life's circumstances is an illusion. Only our Sovereign God is in control of everything. 

We are all responsible for our own actions. Notice that the Word of God does not ask for us to never be angry. Anger is part of life. If you have a valid reason to be angry, then be angry, but don't use it to hurt others. How we handle that anger is what's important. We must choose to honor God at all times. 

Lastly, the scripture tells us to deal with that anger today. Don't let it grow and fester into tomorrow and the next day. Don't feed it with liquid courage. Pray about it. Tell God exactly how you feel. Don't sugar coat it. Give your frustrations to God. He can handle it. Let him take that weight off your shoulders and replace that anger with peace. Go for a walk. Get some exercise. Leave that anger on the gym floor and at the foot of the Cross. You owe it to yourself, your crew, and your loved ones. Be blessed.
-Sr. Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain

Monday, December 9, 2019

Love and Honor

"Love one another deeply. Honor others more than yourselves." -Romans 12:10
Let's take a look at a couple of the key words in the verse above. 
     Deeply (Intensely) - with extreme force.
     Honor - high respect; adherence to what is right or to a conventional standard of conduct;
        fulfill an obligation or keep an agreement.

A Biblical story that I believe coincides with the above scripture is the story of Daniel. Even though Daniel was a captive in another nation, he didn’t stop following the laws of God. He still only ate the things he was supposed to, and he prayed three times a day. Because Daniel listened to God, others noticed his wisdom, and he soon gained a position as one of the king’s advisors. Daniel served Nebuchadnezzar for many years and was later chosen to serve under the new king, Darius.

It was King Darius who threw Daniel in the Lion's Den for praying to his God. In spite of the extreme adversity Daniel was facing under a new regime, he remained faithful, displaying intense honor and a deep love for God by praying only to Him. He continued to do so even with the threat of death by lion looming over his head.

Each of us and our families are facing some type of pressure. It is easy to give in to the flesh and make decisions strictly based on our emotions. Pressure tends to place strain on our marriages, health, finances, and work performance. If we're honest, the pressure does get to us from time to time. Lets face it- only Jesus is perfect. Staying in the Word helps us deal with adversity. Dwell in the word, instead of the adversity. As Christians, we need to stay the course and display HONOR and LOVE to God and others for the world to see. Let's be more like Daniel. After all, we have been in the lion's den and held captive for quite some time now. 

Kind Regards,
Senior Captain Jacob Sandlin, 55B

Sunday, December 1, 2019

Give Thanks

"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." - 1 Thessalonians 5:18
When my daughter(whom shall remain nameless) was younger, she always seemed ungrateful. We'd have a great day as a family at the zoo, museum, or amusement park followed by a meal at a restaurant of their choice. Once we were headed home, she'd always ask, "Where are we going next?" She never liked the answer of "home," and would offer up her suggestions, tears, and arguments. She was never satisfied. 

Focusing on what we don't have will always leave us empty. Studies show that people who practice gratitude are typically happier and have a better outlook on life. Those who are thankful on a regular basis, sleep better and have lower instances of anxiety and depression. God knows all the benefits of having a grateful heart. That's why His will for us is to give thanks. 

It is fairly easy for us to be just like my ungrateful child. We whine and complain to God and others about how bad life is or what we don't have. If we would take a step back and count our blessings, we would see how much God has truly blessed us. There is always something for which we can be thankful every day, not just on Thanksgiving. Make a list of all your blessings, and spend some time reflecting on them.  You will see your attitude, health, and spirituality improve. 
Have a Blessed Thanksgiving!
Senior Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Soar

"but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." - Isaiah 40:31
It was nice to gain my hour of sleep back this past weekend. However, it is not nice having darkness swoop in before dinner. I've been ready to go to bed at 8 every night this week. The darkness and ensuing tiredness seem to correlate with the ongoing election battle. Never in my career has there been a more stressful time for HFD. I know most of us are experiencing a mental fatigue like never before. 

One thing is for certain, this world will let you down. Our city officials have and will continue to let us down. We should all have the mayor and city council be our pallbearers so they can let us down one last time. Even the people we love and trust let us down from time to time. It is easy to lose hope when elections,  court cases, and life don't go our way.

God is the only One who won't let us down. He Always follows through with His promises.  He hasn't let me down yet. We should focus our hope on the sure thing, Him. In fact when we do, He gives us the strength to face everything that comes our way. His Word promises that we will SOAR. Are you tired of just getting by? Are you ready to soar? Then, put your hope and trust in Him. 
-Sr. Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain

Sunday, November 3, 2019

Stay Connected

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." - John 15:5
I often have to remind myself what life was like before cell phones. It's hard to believe we actually used phones to talk to people. We had to keep loose change in our pockets and cars to use at the payphones. It took giving good directions and landmarks to navigate friends to your place. Email wasn't really a thing and social media didn't exist.

A lot has changed in a little over 20 years. Now we feel lost, alone, and even naked when we don't have our phones with us. Taking away a phone from a teenager is now the go to punishment for bad behavior.  The first things we look for in airports, hotels, restaurants, and grandma's house is an outlet and the WiFi password.

When Jesus was giving His vine and branches analogy, I believe that He was telling His disciples to stay connected to Him. He was about to physically leave this earth and they would need to stay connected to continue His work. Just like we feel the need to stay connected to our cell phones, we need even more to stay connected to Him.

When we are connected to Him, our lives are full of: love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Is your life full of all of that? I've noticed that when my life looks opposite of that, it is because I have disconnected myself from Christ. The life He calls us to live is not attainable on our own, but when we stay connected to Him, it comes naturally. He asks us to stay connected, and He does the rest. So read your Bible, pray continually, go to church, be involved in a small group, listen to worship music, and watch what God will do in your life. Be blessed.
-Sr Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain

Monday, October 28, 2019

If you love me...

"If you love me, keep my commands." -John 14:15
If you've ever been in love, you know it can make you do some crazy things. It has made guys climb to the top of water towers and overpasses under the cloak of night to proclaim their love for their girl. I'm sure we've all fallen asleep while on a phone call with that special someone, because we didn't want to hang up and be disconnected from him/her. 

Love is way more than butterflies in your stomach or positive feelings for another. Love is action. Love gives, and as Bob Goff titled one of his books, Love Does. Bruno Mars sings that he would catch a grenade, throw his head on a blade, jump in front of a train, take a bullet straight through his brain, and more for the love of his life. That is some pretty intense stuff right there. Some people will do anything for love. 

Jesus says the best expression of our love for Him is simply shown in us keeping His commands. His commands are given for our benefit and good. Love God. Love your neighbor. Love your enemy. Turn the other cheek. Judge not. Seek first the Kingdom of God. Do unto others, and many more. Jesus must really love us, because He endured a terrible scourging, nails through His hands and feet, a crown of thorns on His head, and a spear through His side for us. All He asks, is that if we truly love Him, we would show it, just as he demonstrated and proved His love for us.  Out of a heart of love for the God who died for us, we are able and willing to obey His commands which benefit us and others. Be blessed.

-Sr. Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain
For Prayer: HFDPrayer@gmail.com




Sunday, October 20, 2019

Blurred Vision

"Where there is no vision the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law." - Proverbs 29:18
There's something special about being able to see. I remember getting my first pair of glasses in the first grade. I was so excited to read all of the posters in my classroom, some of them for the first time. 20/20 vision brings about great clarity and detail. As I got older, my vision got worse due to severe astigmatism, so I wore thick(coke bottle) glasses and eventually expensive contacts. 

I finally decided to get LASIK surgery after I lost my crew in a heavily involved house fire. It was New Year's Day. I got little to no sleep from celebrating the night before, and I was slightly dehydrated from all of the beverages consumed. This made my eyes extremely dry and not ready for my contacts. As I was checking out my airpack, the tones went off, and we were first in to a house fire! There was no time to put on my contacts. On arrival, I stumbled to the front door and kicked it in. I then began pulling slack for the nozzle man. We encountered fire immediately and pushed our way forward. The captain caught up to us and told me to go get a scuttle hole(attic) ladder. I was so blind, I had to be directed to my truck and back. I then attached myself to the wrong crew and was ordered to find my own. I wandered around aimlessly while my crew was looking for me. They called a mayday on my behalf. A month later I had perfect vision thanks to the Eye Center of Texas. Again like the first grade me I was excited to read everything I could- license plates, clocks, billboards.

People who lack a vision for their lives are just like the vision impaired.  They  stumble and fumble their way through life with no real direction, joy, or passion. They constantly wander around and attach themselves to the wrong people who are just as lost. They don't seem to care about anything. They put off making major decisions because they have no assurance. They may even take unnecessary risks because why would it matter? The scriptures say they "cast off restraint," while other translations say they "perish." They die never having truly lived. 

 True vision for our lives comes from walking in God's purpose for our lives. We can find our purpose and abundant life, by reading and obeying the Holy Scriptures. In doing so we come to know God. In knowing and obeying God and His Word, we are "blessed." Could you use some direction, passion, and purpose for your life? You can find it in God and His Word. Be blessed. 
-Sr Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Pride

"Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men" -Colossians 3:23
Pride is a word that is used a lot in the fire service. It embodies the type of worker we should all aspire to be. A firefighter that takes pride in his/her job arrives early for every shift, in uniform, and does every task to the best of his/her ability. They take pride in the job even when those around them don't.

Recently deceased firefighter, Kenneth Stavinoha, a believer in Christ, modeled what it looks like to take pride in his job and in turn honored God with his work. His officers tell of a man who arrived every morning at 5:30 ready to work. They say he could always be found working and learning. Occasionally he missed a meal because he was working. He wanted to stay busy. He would drive his first in territory and to and from hospitals on his off days so he would be fast and efficient when his turn came to drive. He knew lives depended on it. When rain kept the previous shift from doing their "yard day," he took pride in the appearance of his station and volunteered to work on it. This would be his last act on earth, doing his job with his "whole being." Kenny embodied pride.

If you are a Christian, the Bible calls you to a higher standard of work ethic- "for the Lord." It is great to be self motivated. Self motivated firefighters are the backbone of the department. It is even better to recognize that God has blessed us with life, physical health, and this job, so we choose to do our best and honor Him with a solid unwavering work ethic. Working to the best of our ability is an act of worship to the God who died for us.
-Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

Is This Thing On

"But your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, And your sins have hidden His face from you so that He does not hear." - Isaiah 59:2
There is nothing more frustrating to me than a dropped calI, especially when I am trying to have a logistics conversation with the Boss aka my wife. Most new houses come with energy efficiency that acts as a barrier to the elements. It saves us a lot of money on electric bills, but it also acts as a barrier to our cell signals. Thankfully T-Mobile gave us a WIFI cell tower for free which almost completely eliminated our in home dropped call issue.

Sometimes we can feel as if our prayers aren't being heard by God. We usually feel this way when our prayers aren't answered immediately or how we'd like, as if God is our own personal Genie. Maybe(probably) the reason we don't feel like our prayers are being heard and answered lies within. Sin, disobedience to God, in our lives separates us from a Perfect, Holy, and Righteous God.

When Jesus taught us the Lord's prayer, He included "forgive us our trespasses." Forgiveness of our sins is our most important need, because it separates us from God. Do you want God to hear/listen to your heart's cry? Then our first request should be for His forgiveness, which He gives freely. God is always ready and willing to forgive. It is why He sent His Son to die. Repentance is our signal booster to God. It doesn't guarantee things will turn out how you like, but it does guarantee He will listen and respond.

-Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain

Sunday, September 15, 2019

Still Small Voice

"And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice" - 1 Kings 19:11-12
This encounter between Elijah and God is one of my all time favorites. God had performed some amazing miracles through Elijah. He had just given him one of his greatest victories, yet, Elijah was depressed, hiding, and wished he was dead. Elijah complains to God, so, God tells Elijah to go wait for Him. He put him in time out.

Waiting can be extremely hard for us. We don't like waiting in traffic, for food at a restaurant, or for web pages to load. We want what we want, and we want it now. God was teaching Elijah the art of patience and solitude. It is easy to get distracted by the noise of this world. The device we carry in our back pocket is one of the greatest distractors ever invented. 

Elijah found God in a still small voice. In order to hear God's whisper, we must silence our minds and the world around us. I was 16 years old at FCA camp when I was taught to have a daily "quiet time" with God. During this time, I get away from the distractions, read scripture, and meditate on it. I spend a lot of time apologizing/confessing. I ask God to help me live the life He wants me to live, and I wait and listen to hear from Him. I believe that God primarily speaks to us through His Holy Scriptures. Read them. Listen to sermons about them online and in person. Put yourself in position to hear from Him.

I can attest that God does indeed still speak to us. A firefighter and his wife were having a discussion on their way to our church one Sunday morning. They were debating whether or not God still speaks to His people. The sermon that Sunday was exactly about the ways God speaks to us. I know God spoke to him that day. I'm also sure he got an "I told you so," too.

Are you struggling with your faith? Could you use a message from God? Turn off the devices, remove the distractions, quiet your mind, read the Holy Scriptures, and listen. "Be still and know that I am God," and wait for "His still small voice."
- Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain

Sunday, August 25, 2019

One Harvey Story


It’s been two years since Hurricane Harvey wreaked havoc on our Texas coast. The C-Shift was on duty when the torrential downpours began in Houston. E59C had a front row seat to the damage and destruction 27 trillion gallons and 50 inches of rain can cause. Late Saturday night, the city assigned a dump truck with a driver to accompany us.

As the waters rose, the calls for rescues began to pour in nonstop, and our night quickly turned into chaos. Most of our units were useless in the high waters. Our dump truck was a Godsend. Due to some gutsy driving and superior territory knowledge, we were able to make it out of our territory on South Post Oak and into the Sagemont area several miles away where our crew split as another dump truck became available. We immediately began making our way into the neighborhoods filling the back of our dump trucks with men, women, and children who were stranded in their cars or leaving their homes as they filled with water. 

One young family had an infant and a toddler with them. They had just moved here a week earlier from Alabama and had driven around aimlessly in an unfamiliar city trying to avoid the flood until eventually the waters trapped them on all sides. My concern quickly turned towards the children as I in my rain gear began to shiver. I worried that the infant or both children would become hypothermic. I began to pray earnestly that God would stop the rain long enough for us to get the children to dry land and clothes. It seemed like the more I prayed, the harder it rained. At one point I looked up to the sky and shouted in anger towards God. Why was He not answering my prayers? Doesn't He care?

It continued to rain, and we continued to make rescues that added to the number of people on our makeshift Ark. Each call sent us down another flood filled road. We zigged and zagged our way in the rain to higher ground trying to get our evacuees to the shelter, but the requests for rescues in our area kept coming, so we kept trying. Each call for help sent us further away from the shelter as the waters continued to rise. Out of nowhere the father of the family says, “Hey, that’s the hotel where we are staying!” I yelled at the driver to stop, and we pulled into the hotel parking lot. God was able navigate the family to the only familiar place to them and into their own dry clothes. I immediately gave thanks to God, because He orchestrated the best rescue of the night for us. We couldn’t have planned that route or outcome in a million years! The hotel was in the exact opposite direction and miles away from where we were trying to travel.

We made countless more rescues that night and over the next few days. My faith was indeed tested. I learned, yet again, that God is faithful. Always. He knows what He is doing even when we don’t see or understand. The LORD tells us in Isaiah, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” So many times I pray and tell the God of the Universe how to answer my prayers. I’m grateful that he forgives my pride, arrogance, and small mindedness. I’m even more grateful that His ways are higher and better.
-Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain

Tuesday, August 13, 2019

More Than You Can Imagine

"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us." -Ephesians 3:20

Humans have had some pretty impressive accomplishments over the last 100 years. A man has walked on the moon. Runners have run an under 4 minute mile. Vaccines have nearly eradicated several diseases. Phones have become our PC, camera, and primary source of entertainment. It seems that the boundaries of medicine and technology are no more.

For all that we can do, there is so much more we can't. Despite our best efforts, there are limits to human achievement. While we may not have reached them yet, we inevitably will. We are limited by the laws of physics, and often times by our own imaginations and past failures.

Many times the limits we place on ourselves from lack of confidence, vision, and creativity, we transfer to God. We assume(wrongly) that if we haven't seen something done, then God can't or won't do it. In the Holy Scriptures we see instance after instance of God working outside the boundaries of physics, medicine, and human comprehension. If we know what He is capable of, why do we place God inside our tiny box and leave Him there? We pray little prayers, and don't expect God to answer even those.

Paul says that God can do "immeasurably more than we could ask or imagine." God can do anything! He is the God of miracles; there is literally nothing He can't do. Remember when you were a kid and you thought that your dad could do anything? Now I'm a dad and my kids constantly ask me to do things of which I'm entirely incapable. Let's get back to that childlike faith that believes our Father God can do anything. Let's start asking and believing in Him to do ginormous things, impossible things, more than we can imagine!
-Captain Bobby Delgado, HFD Chaplain

P.S. If you would like for our Chaplain team to join you in praying for the impossible, email us at hfdprayer@gmail.com

Sunday, August 11, 2019

You Are a Mist

"Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes." - James 4:14

In our line of work, we are extremely familiar with the brevity of life. Unfortunately we have witnessed the death of newborns, 90 year olds, and everything in between. Often times all in one day. 

This week we laid to rest a brother firefighter who seemed to have so much life left. That same night I spent time comforting a mother and father who had just lost 3 young kids. Life is indeed short. Not one of us is promised tomorrow. 

The deaths of loved ones and the young are reminders of our mortality. Death has been undefeated since Day 1 of Human History, and it shows no signs of ending that streak any time soon. Throughout my career, many people have asked, "Am I going to die?" I almost always answered, "Yes. It might not be today, but we are all going to die."

I think we should all take time to reflect on our lives. How we live our lives matters. How we love God, our neighbors, our families, and even our enemies matters. Every conversation had and every memory made could be our last. Make each moment this side of heaven count. Say, "I love you" and "I'm sorry." Show it. Mean it. Live at peace with everyone and make your peace with God with whom we will all stand face to face.
-Captain Bobby Delgado, HFD Chaplain

Thursday, July 25, 2019

The Rat Race

"For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that." 1 Timothy 6:7-8


Can't take it with you. Most of us have spoken those words at some point in our lives. Yet, we willfully place ourselves on that dang running wheel on a regular basis. We chase after more stuff as if it will satisfy us. We like new stuff, nicer stuff, bigger stuff. Many of us work extra jobs and overtime to pay the notes on stuff we don't need or that can wait. 

I'm not saying that having nice things is bad. I'm not saying that some of us aren't legitimately busting our humps just to make ends meet on things we actually need. What I am saying is that most of us have not mastered the art of contentment, myself included. Being content is being happy with what you have. It is being grateful for everything and everyone God has placed in your life. It is being okay with not having the bigger house, newer car, latest phone, toy, etc... Simply put, it is wanting what you already have.  

When are we going to get off the wheel and live for what matters? When are we going to stop being absent from our friends and families just so we can have one more thing? Time is our most valuable asset and the clock is always ticking. We can never get back lost time. Life is short. Relationships are what matter- God and Family above all else. Let's live a life a of contentment and spend our time with the people who matter. Start by making a list of all your reasons to be thankful.
-Captain Bobby Delgado, HFD Chaplain

Tuesday, July 16, 2019

Houston, The Eagle Has Landed

This weekend, 50 years ago, a great event in the history of man occurred. Two men landed their spacecraft on the moon. A few hours later, they exited their craft and actually walked on the surface of the moon. What an awesome event! I can remember being a young boy staying up together with my church family after Sunday night church services to watch  the first ever moonwalk. My anxiety was high as I feared for our newest hero, Neil Armstrong, hoping the surface wasn't quicksand or worse, that some moon monster would run on screen and gobble him up on live TV in front of 600 million people. Luckily for him, all went well.

As I look at the moon, it seems so far away, and it's awesome to think that these brave men traveled there and stood on its surface. Some skeptics still don't believe it really happened; in fact, a movie was made to that effect called "Capricorn One." But, I believe and will always cherish the memory of that moment.

That same year, another great event occurred. Oh, it didn't get the press of the moon landing, however it was none the less significant to me. Although many observed this event, only a few remember it at all. I remember my anxiety was high for this event also, not knowing what the future held. This event also involved leaving this planet and taking up residence in a foreign place- the heavenlies. 50 years ago, this 9 year old boy(me) walked the aisle at church and gave his life to Jesus.

In 1969, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin were heroes on earth and the people rejoiced. But, in 1969, I became a hero in heaven, and the angels rejoiced. Insignificant? I don't think so. The astronauts had to have a lot of faith in the NASA scientists and engineers that sent them there. You will have to have enough faith in a loving God concerning your eternity and heavenly home. Are you a skeptic? Are you willing to take that first step? If you do, it will be one giant leap for your eternity.

Luke 15:10 ”I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”

Romans 10:9 "if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."
-Retired District Chief Jeff Boles

Wednesday, July 3, 2019

The Best is Yet to Come


"However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”— the things God has prepared for those who love him"- 1 Corinthians 2:9
In Genesis 41:1-40, after interpreting Pharaoh’s dream and devising a plan for the upcoming famine, Joseph was made second in-charge of the land of Egypt. Joseph’s journey to the palace was one full of hardship and adversity. Joseph was blessed with the ability to interpret dreams, and he was also well loved by his father. In fact, Joseph’s father loved him more than he loved his other ten sons(Genesis 37:3). His father’s love for him, alone with his ability to interpret dreams, caused Joseph’s brothers to hate him(Genesis 37:5-11). Because of his brothers’ jealousy and hatred for him, they schemed to get rid of Joseph and threw him into a cistern and later sold him into slavery(Genesis 37:12-28). This would only be the beginning of Joseph’s hardships. Next, he was falsely accused by his master’s wife and thrown into prison(Genesis 39:1-20). Then, he was forgotten about after helping the king’s cupbearer by interpreting his dream(Genesis 40:1-23). Through it all, Joseph never gave up, and he always trusted in his God because he understood that his best was yet to come.

Right now, you might be thinking that all the suffering and the sorrow you are enduring will not equal to anything good. However, just like Joseph, God could be using all the difficult situations and problems you have gone through to prepare you for something greater. God could be working behind the scenes arranging a tremendous blessing for you and your family. You will never realize it if you give up now. That’s why the Bible teaches us to walk by faith and not by sight(2 Corinthians 5:7). Even though you cannot see God’s blessings being formulated, you can trust and believe that they are in the works. You can trust that God has something good that He is preparing for you right now. As Christians, we have to be able to look past our present dilemmas and see all the wonderful possibilities that life can bring. We need to be able to visualize all the amazing blessings that God has in store for us and our loved ones. As believers, we must be able to see through all the pain and anguish and allow God to show us that the best is yet to come.
-Captain Rinthian Pickney
HFD Station 42C

Love Your Enemies

"But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." -Jesus in Matthew 5:44

There are some things written in the Bible that I don't particularly care to listen to or follow. That whole love your enemy and pray for them bit is at the top of my list. Jesus must have been high or misquoted on that one. Who does that? Who wants to show love, be kind, and pray for those who have hurt us?

What we really want is to get revenge. We want our enemies and opponents to feel the pain we feel. We know that no good can come from evening the score. The vicious cycle of revenge will just continue. Jesus in His infinite wisdom asks us to end that cycle.

If we wanted to pray for those who have wronged us, we would probably pray that God would strike them with lightning or fire and brimstone served up Old Testament style. Instead, we should pray that God would change their hearts. We should pray that God would give us the strength to forgive. We should pray that God would heal the hurts in their hearts that have caused them to lash out at us and others. 

The Lord Jesus on the cross got a chance to practice what He preached. As he was suffering unimaginable pain inflicted on Him by the Romans, he prayed for them. "Father forgive them..." Jesus doesn't ask us to do anything He hasn't done himself.

Who is your enemy? Is it a boss, an ex, a spouse, a neighbor, a classmate, or a politician? How can you show them kindness? How can you pray for them? Jesus gives us the key to end the cycle and heal the anger and bitterness we harbor in our hearts towards our enemies: Love and Pray. Be blessed.
-Captain Bobby Delgado, HFD Chaplain

Sunday, June 23, 2019

Missing the Journey

"The LORD had said to Abram, "Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you." -Genesis 12:1
Abraham was the man God chose to start the Jewish nation and religion. It was a huge task that started with the simple command to "Go." It took a great amount of faith for him to leave everything familiar to him and become a nomad.

It is summer time, and many of us are taking trips to the rivers, mountains, beaches, and the anywheres but home. If you're like me, you are destination minded. There is no greater joy for a vacation bound father than beating the GPS estimated time of arrival. I become militantesque in my quest for speed and efficiency. I start my plan to beat the GPS prediction by dehydrating my wife and children so they'll need less potty breaks-genius I know. I stay alert on the long drives by constantly calculating with precision how much time I can save by driving x-amount of miles over the speed limit while still being safe.

It is no easy task being Dale Jr in an 8-passenger Suburban (mini vans were banned in our wedding vows). I no doubt am a jerk when one of my precious offspring or the woman with whom I am one try to foil my plans of interstate dominance. I don't have time for sights or sounds and unnecessary stops.

A wise person once said that life is about the journey not the destination. When we get in the go, go, go mode, we miss the beauty of God's creation. We can miss amazing conversations, laughter, and the love of the people He has placed and wants to place in our lives.

This holds true for life in general, not just road trips. It is easy to get side tracked because we want our raise, promotion, retirement, graduation, wedding etc...now. We can get so caught up in reaching the destination that we miss all of the blessings God has for us along the way. More importantly, we miss all the ways God wants to use us to be a blessing to others. Abraham didn't get to see the Promised Land. There were many times when not reaching the destination frustrated him and tested his faith. Yet he remained faithful.

Where is God commanding you to go? Who is He asking you to bless? Take the first step, and enjoy and savor every step and stop along the way.
-Captain Bobby Delgado, HFD Chaplain

Thursday, June 13, 2019

Sweeter than Honey

"How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" - Psalm 119:103

Samson was a strange dude. He was arrogant, revengeful, a player, and a jokester, but God still used him to deliver the nation of Israel from the Philistines. So, there is still hope for that Rookie. While traveling, Samson walked past a lion carcass he had killed the week before. Looking into the rotting belly of this animal, he noticed that bees had made a hive there, and it was now full of sweet honey. He challenged his adversaries with a riddle; “Out of the eater, something to eat; out of the strong, something sweet(Judges 14:14).” They never would have gotten it if Samson’s wife didn’t blab. The sight of this unlikely beehive made an impression on Samson.

In the New Testament in the book of Philippians, the apostle Paul writes to the people of Philippi saying, “What has happened to me has actually served to advance the Gospel(1:12).” What happened to Paul? Well, he entered Rome as a preacher and ended up being a prisoner chained to a guard 24/7. Jail was not part of his plan and probably is not part of yours either. Life throws us curves, and often we find ourselves in our own version of prison. To some our prison is relationship issues, to others declining health or disease. Maybe for you it’s financial problems or addiction. Or you could just be just sick of all the political turmoil and how it has affected your job, home, and family. Paul however, didn’t allow his prison to get him down. He knew something we don’t.

Often when we face difficulties, we pray for God to deliver us and free us, to get us out of here, and to make everything whole, better, and as it should be. Often He does, but sometimes He has another plan; the plan he had for Paul.

You’ve heard it said that when everyone is running away from a fire, firefighters run in. I will tell you that when you find yourself in your personal prison, God may not save you. He may not grab you and run out. He may actually run into your prison to be with you in your time of despair. That’s what God did with Paul. He met him in his prison. This changed the lives of those trapped with him, and empowered Paul to courageously claim, “Christ will be exalted in my body whether by life or death(1:20).” He went on to proclaim, “To live is Christ and to die is gain(1:21).” Wow!

What an odd story Samson told. In a rotting body of a dead animal, bees entered to make something sweet. How much more will God meet you in your rotten situation with something sweeter than honey- His presence, love, and comfort. He will give you the courage to say, no matter how this works out, God is with me, and I’m with Him, and its gonna be alright.

Look for God “in” your circumstances not just as a path out of them.
-Retired HFD District Chief Jeff Boles

Thursday, June 6, 2019

My Brother's Keeper

"Then the Lord said to Cain, "Where is your brother, Abel?" "I don't know," he replied. 
"Am I my brother's keeper?"
"Am I my brother's keeper?" That is a heck of a question to ask God who is ever present and all knowing. The audacity of Cain to answer a question with a question. It shows his callousness and ignorance. The answer to Cain's question is emphatically "YES!" We are all responsible for each other. We have an obligation to care for, love, and serve all of humanity.

Brotherhood is a word that get's thrown around a lot in the fire service. Some say it exists and others claim it is dead. I say that Brotherhood(our sisters included) is up to me. It is not up to the next person, the station officer, or the Chief. I am responsible to be my brother's and sister's keeper. 

Ever since I entered HFD in 2003, I have been fortunate to be part of some amazing crews that accepted me and my family into theirs. These crews were diverse in every way and intricately involved in each other's lives. Brotherhood is taking care of each other on the job, but it really shows true in taking care of each other when we're off duty. 

An article from 2018 in Fire Rescue 1 stated in 2017 there were more deaths by suicide in the fire and police service than line of duty deaths. This is both staggering and heart breaking. The reasons for and solutions to are all complex. I believe that we can all be part of the solution. We can all help carry the load when one of our own hits hard times. We can all be on the lookout for the subtle changes in behavior that occur when we are struggling.  We can listen for the verbal cues our members give when they feel they can't go on. We can all speak up and ask the hard question of their desire and plan for suicide. If we see something ,we can say something. We can refer them to one of our Docs, Chaplains, or the EAP. We can all pray for them daily and with them in the moment. 

It is about all of us doing our part. Say it with me.  I. AM. MY. BROTHER'S. KEEPER. 
Be Blessed,
Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain
1-800-273-8255
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

Sunday, June 2, 2019

Work in Progress

"And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." -Philippians 1:6
Do you find yourself looking less like Christ some days? I'll admit, sometimes my words, thoughts, and actions look nothing like Christ and everything like the jerk I can be. They look a lot like Houston freeway construction- one big, constant, painful mess. The beauty of watching a construction project over time is that you can see its progression from nothing to something.

I am not perfect. You are not perfect. We all fail. Yet, Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:48 to "be perfect." He also told one woman to "go and sin no more." He has set the standard because He is the standard. Our goal each day should be to look more and more like Him.

No matter how hard I try, I still miss the mark. It is not about how hard we try. It is about allowing Him to do the work in us. According to Philippians 1, Jesus is the One who starts and finishes the work. We can't just try harder and be better. We must connect with God on a daily basis so that He can do the work. None of us would dare try and perform open heart surgery on ourselves. We must place ourselves in position for Him to complete His work in us. We do this through prayer, fasting, Bible study, attending church, Christian community, and serving.

As we connect with Christ, may we look more and more like Him and less and less like us. May we also grant each other grace as we fail and hold each other accountable to the higher standard.
Be Blessed,
Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain







Monday, May 20, 2019

Never Will I Leave You

"As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you."
-Joshua 1:5
As the Israelites were about to conquer the Promised Land in Joshua 1:5-6, God reassured Joshua and the children of Israel by reminding them of how committed He was to their success. He told Joshua, their leader, “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.” In addition, God instructed Joshua to “be strong and courageous.”

In this life, we face many uncertainties. We face the uncertainty of what each day holds, whether we will make it home to our families, whether we will get a bad report from the doctor, whether we will have enough money to pay our bills, etc... In these times of confusion and uncertainty, it's good to know that there is something that we can be certain about. We can be certain about God’s love and commitment for His children. God told Joshua that he would never leave him, and this promise was repeated again in Hebrews 13:5. God wants us to know that no matter what life may throw at us, He will be right there by our side. No matter how bad things may get, He will be right there in the trenches with us to see us through the fight.

God had to remind Joshua how He had been there for Moses and Israel in the past. Now, God has to remind us of how he has been there for so many of our brother and sister firefighters. This is not the first time that Houston firefighters have had to face uncertainty and adversity. This is not the first time that this department has gone through a period of hardship, disappointment, and change. And it won't be the last. Just like God has helped Houston firefighters get through difficult times in the past, He will also help us get through this present storm.

Like Joshua, we too are commanded to be strong and courageous. As firefighters, we face danger all day long, and risk our lives daily for people we don’t know (and God has a special blessing awaiting us because of this, Galatians 6:9). However, what God is asking us to do now is to not only trust Him through the physical danger, but to also trust him through the emotional and spiritual devastation that is associated with uncertainty. It's easy to trust God when things are going well in your life, but you find out how strong your faith is when you are in the midst of a storm. God can use a storm to water and strengthen your faith so that you will be prepared to do His work. Even in the midst of layoffs and demotions, God can use these events to strengthen our faith. All we have to do is place our hope in the guarantee that God will always be right by our side no matter what happens. You can be certain that God always takes care of his children.
-Captain Rinthian Pickney
HFD Station 42C

Sunday, May 12, 2019

The Struggle is Real



A scripture that I have been meditating on shows the inner struggle of its writer. His struggle perfectly mirrors what I’m going through trying to juggle the reality of my career (HFD) and my unwavering pledge to God.  “The Struggle is Real!”

“Why, my soul, are you downcast?  Why so disturbed within me?  Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” Psalm 43:5 NIV

The struggle is between me as a person and my inner soul.  To make it interesting, I’ll tell you what my soul is saying to me.
Me:  Hey Soul, what’s wrong with you? Why are you so upset and downcast lately?
Soul:  Downcast? I’ll tell you why, cause the mayor has robbed my pension, is laying off 220 FFs, and hundreds more are getting demoted. I already work two jobs trying to make ends meet. Tell me, where is the fairness in all this?
Me:  I get it, I see your point…you're pissed off and have every right to be.  At every turn we are getting cut off, one step forward, then two steps back. I’m in this fight with you!     
Soul:  This career, it's everything to me and defines who I am.  Where do I go and who do I turn to?
Me:  I see your pain and frustration, but we are brothers and FF’s who face adversity every day.  We are going to first and foremost keep our hope in God alone, for we are nothing without him.  And then, we are going to praise Him because He is our Savior and our God. Then we are going to continue to serve where God has called us, and we will walk through fire to save those he has called us to save.  Most importantly, remember, it is God who defines us because He is everything.

For the past week, this has been the conversation I’ve been having with myself.  A little crazy? Yes I am, but I’m crazy for Jesus because his Word will always be true.  Putting my faith in “man” has never gotten me anywhere, but keeping my faith in Jesus Christ has been my everything.  My encouragement to you all is to keep the faith, work hard, and never give up hope. "Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God."
-Sr. Capt. (soon to be demoted) 4/A & L341 Chaplain
Mark Akers


Sunday, May 5, 2019

Where's God in the Storm

"Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” -Mark 4:38
"Don't you care...?" It's a heck of a question to ask anyone, especially God. If we're all honest, we have all asked God that very question, especially when the hits just keep coming. I asked God the same question after several hours of the pounding pouring rain during the rescues of Harvey. Right now as firefighters are facing layoffs and demotions, we are in one of the toughest storms and fights of our lives.

Jesus wasn't the least bit surprised, scared, or concerned that a storm was tossing around their small fishing boat. He was able to sleep during the whole ordeal, until the worriers woke him up. When they questioned His love and care for them, He stopped the storm and calmed the sea to show that He is God and is in control. He slept because He knew they would be okay and the storm would pass. There are some important eternal truths to be learned:
     1. Storms will come. Even with Jesus on your side and in your boat, they will come.
     2. You do not have to go through the storm alone. He is always with us.
     3. The storm will end. They always do.
     4. Jesus can give us his peace and strength to endure the storm. 
     5. Jesus doesn't say merely say He cares, He shows it. 

Storms are part of life. Embrace the struggle. Strength comes from enduring and persevering the trials of life. Pressure creates diamonds, and irritation creates pearls. Joy is fully experienced only after knowing pain. As we walk through the storms of uncertainty, let us walk together. Hold onto your Faith in Christ who is always with us, and look for all the ways He is demonstrating His love and care for us.
-Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain 

Sunday, April 28, 2019

Til Death Do Us Part

"So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
For better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, til death do us part: the traditional wedding vows. We can all recite them on cue. The words seem to be perfect for the occasion, but they are more than just nice poetic words. While standing before our friends, family, and God, we are making a commitment to be there with and for each other in every situation. Sometimes we forget that love is not defined by our feelings but by our actions. Life is guaranteed to be hard. Being married to a firefighter usually makes life harder.

I recently got to visit one of our retirees in the hospital just before he headed to home hospice. His frail body was hanging on by a thin thread as cancer was ravaging his body. His wife of 40+ years was right by his side holding his hand as she had done for the last year and a half. In their decades of marriage they've seen all of the highs and lows that come with being a Houston Firefighter, raising children, aging, and fighting a terrible disease. No matter what life gave them, they faced it together.

He spoke of how she had always been by his side offering her love and support. She told of how he always took care of her and was a good man. I watched as he ordered them lunch, taking time to read her the menu because her vision is failing. They both shared how their faith had everything to do with them still being together because they choose to honor God above themselves. I'm amazed at how, while in pain and dying, he managed to downsize their home, get them moved, and pay all of her bills for the next year knowing he wouldn't be around. He is still loving his wife even after his death. That my friends, is love. Beautiful. Beautiful. Love.

I'm certain that neither of them were perfect. I don't doubt that they had their fair share of fights and arguments. Through it all, they chose to hold their wedding vows sacred. Cancer didn't stop her from loving him, and death couldn't stop him from loving her.
-Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain

Thursday, April 25, 2019

He Has Risen

"...Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; He has risen!"
-The Angels at Jesus' Tomb in Luke 24:5-6
You and your crew are dispatched to a serious trauma call: Extrication, Shooting, Stabbing, etc... The call notes lend to this being a legit call. You rush to the given address to find nothing: no patient, no MVI, no semblance of an emergency whatsoever. You begin to think. Is this a prank call? Did the caller provide the right address? Did the call taker jot down the wrong address? These are all definite possibilities. In your gut you know there is a citizen in need of help. One thing I know about firefighters is that we relish the opportunity to do our jobs and make a difference. Scenarios like this can be frustrating.  

On the Sunday morning after Jesus was crucified, some of Jesus' closest friends went to finish the burial process by placing a mix of oils and spices to keep the stench of a dead body to a minimum. They were forbidden from doing so on Saturday,  their Sabbath. Imagine their surprise and horror as they find the body of their beloved Jesus is missing. GOA. Vanished. "He gone." Where's the body? Did they have the right tomb?

Jesus had told his followers on more than one occasion that He would die and be raised to life. They would have known the tens of  Old Testament prophecies concerning His death and resurrection. Maybe his friends didn't really believe any of it. Why would they? Who does that- rise from the dead? It's definitely not normal. They've seen Him raise other dead people, could He raise Himself?

In rising from the dead, Christ shows His POWER and DEITY. He does what only God can do. A death caused by severe trauma from a massive loss of blood volume, MODS, and asphyxiation could not keep Him down. If He has the power to defeat death, He has the power to forgive sins and grant eternal life. He has the power to answer prayers, meet your needs, and heal your ailments.

He did what He said He would do, making Him TRUSTWORTHY. We can trust in the hundreds of promises found for us in the Bible. 

 A risen Savior is a PRESENT Savior. He is always there for us. He isn't an absentee God. He doesn't  take days off. He's with us now. Today, you can place your hope and trust in the God who conquered death and lives forevermore.
-Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain

Thursday, April 18, 2019

No Greater Love

"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends."
-Jesus in John 15:13
Most firefighters are aware of and can quote the above scripture. It is often used to eulogize and memorialize those who have given the ultimate sacrifice. Firefighting is indeed a noble profession. One where we sign up to risk our lives to save the lives of complete strangers. Firefighting is truly God's work.

Jesus spoke these words just days before he gave his life for all of humanity. Jesus willfully endured excruciating pain and suffering at the hands of the professional Roman executioners. The Holy Scriptures teach us that on the cross Jesus stood in our place and took the punishment for our sins so that all who would believe in Him would have: their sins forgiven and a restored relationship with
God. His motivation for suffering, LOVE.

"Love each other as I have loved you..." are the words uttered by Jesus just before "Greater love has no one than this." He taught and showed us how to live and love. He reinforced His teaching with action. He gave His life for ours.

This Good Friday, as we reflect and give thanks for the greatest act of love the world has ever known, may we choose to love as Jesus did. May we love in word and deed. May we love unconditionally, selflessly, and sacrificially. 
Be Blessed,
Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain

Monday, April 15, 2019

Just Ask


"Ask, and it will be given to you . . ."  -Matthew 7:7

In Matthew 7:7, Jesus helps us understand how powerful prayer is. He tells those around him to ask for what they need, and they will receive it. As Christians, it is important to have a strong prayer life. Many situations can be alleviated just by talking to God about them. Whether it be marital problems, financial problems, or health issues, it all will be positively affected through the power of prayer. We can even improve many areas of our lives through prayer. If you ask God for wisdom, strength, patience, and/or love, He will give it to you. 

Not only should we pray for what we need, we should also pray for the needs of others. When was the last time you prayed for someone other than yourself? When was the last time you prayed for someone other than a family member? When was the last time you prayed for your crew? When was the last time you prayed for a patient? When was the last time you prayed for your enemies? Many conflicts we experience in life can be resolved by asking God to touch the hearts of others.

 One of the best things about prayer is that it can be done anytime and any place. You can pray in your bed when you wake up in the morning. You can pray in your car on your way to work. You can even pray at work when faced with a daunting task. No matter when or where you pray, God will always be available.

 Prayer is one of the most powerful tools that we as Christians have in our tool box. When we learn to utilize prayer to the fullest, we begin to see just how effective it can be. We begin to see just how powerful it is (see James 5:16). Through prayer, we can talk to our Heavenly Father one on one. Through prayer, we can release our worries and our cares to him. Often we struggle with the pressure and stresses of life simply because we have no relief valve. One of the best stress relievers is prayer. Through prayer, we can release our frustrations and concerns to God. The next time you are concerned or bothered by an issue, try talking to God about it.

                                                                                                                       -Captain Rinthian Pickney,
                                                                                                                                        HFD Station 42C



Monday, April 1, 2019

God is Love

"Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." 
-1 John 4:8

The God of the Bible, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, is Love. Love is His very character and nature. The Holy Scriptures define love for us in 1 Corinthians 13. “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails...” The best example of love is found in Jesus: “For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life(John 3:16)."

In our Solar System, the Sun is always shining. There is never a moment when it ceases to shine. In the same way, our God is always loving. When you walk outside on a sunny day, you can feel the warmth of the Sun's rays. When we turn our face towards Him and draw near to God, we will have the rays of His love bestowed upon us, for God is love. Sometimes the worries and troubles of this life make it seem that we are not loved. In these times, turn to God because He is Love. Since He is love, your are loved. Always. Amen.
-Kenneth W. Payne, HFD Chief Communications

Sunday, March 31, 2019

Do Good



"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." - Paul in Galatians 6:9

In my 15+ years in the department, I've seen a lot of good done by our members. I've seen tires changed, wheelchairs pushed, yards mowed, groceries purchased, bikes bought and assembled, students tutored, and so much more. Our members are in the habit of going above and beyond. The picture above is a prime example of how we love and serve our community. Station 93D invited this family to dinner after they lost everything in an apartment fire, and their kindness didn't stop there. This is what it's all about: seeing a need, having compassion, and meeting that need.

As believers, we understand that we are blessed to be a blessing and it is better to give than to receive. If we're not careful, it is easy for poor leadership, politics, exes, bad news, and our own personal problems and struggles to discourage us from caring about anything or anyone. The Apostle Paul urges us to not get tired of doing the right thing. No matter what's going on in your life or at city hall, keep doing good. Keep going above and beyond. Keep treating others like family. Treat your family like family. You are blessed, now go and be a blessing.
-Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain






Sunday, March 24, 2019

Rest

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."
- Jesus in Matthew 11:28


Every firefighter I know is burning the perpetual candle at both ends. Our 24 hour shifts lend to countless sleepless nights and cold meals. Then after we don't sleep at night, we go to work our second and third jobs just to make ends meet, and then we do it again. Throw managing our relationships plus all crap that life tends to throw at us, and we become men and women who are always tired. We are flat out exhausted in every way: physically, mentally, and spiritually. Our fight for parity just adds to and magnifies that toll.

There are numerous studies, medications, and techniques for getting good rest. We should heed any and every good advice in this arena. However, I do not want us to neglect the most powerful force out there: Christ. If you're like me, you try to take matters into your own hands and keep "pushing through." It's not efficient or effective. Christ asks us to come to Him so that He may take our burdens and give us rest. In exchange for our mental exhaustion He grants us peace of mind. He gives us His strength for our weakness. I encourage you to give your worries, anger, stress, and frustrations to Him. He can handle it better than any of us ever will, so give it to Him.

Today, and every day, take some time to pray or meditate, read the Holy Scriptures, go to Church or watch it online. Connect with the living God, and ask him to take the junk that is beating you down. Ask Him to give you rest. He will. He promises it. Be blessed.


-Captain Bobby Delgado
HFD Chaplain