Serving

As we enter the third year of COVID, it has been a challenge for everyone, especially those who are in a profession that involves any form of serving. We saw so many businesses change how they serve their customers, whether it’s restaurants, car dealerships, education, public service, the church, and so many other entities.

The three areas with some of the greatest challenges during COVID are the church, public service, and health care. As a former jail commander, I know the importance of serving our staff, volunteers, contractors, inmates, and others who interact with us daily. The church is called upon to serve not only their church family, but also in communities, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and other needs. Both are similar as they are—and will always be—essential. And trying to find a balance can be a difficult task and almost impossible at times.

I have spoken with jail professionals across the country as they adapt and learn how to serve those whom they encounter every day. The church too has had to alter the way we serve our churches and community. Just as many of our church members fall in the high-risk category of COVID, so do a few of our inmates. So, how do you minister and serve them? The challenge is to find a way to serve and be impactful for everyone. Called to Serve The ministry of Jesus was full of challenges, and He too had to find ways to serve those he ministered to. I am reminded of one of the focal points of Jesus was to serve without limitations. Matthew 20:28 says “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and give his life as a ransom of many.”

When we entered our prospective callings—and yes, I feel serving as a jail professional (just like pastors) is a calling, not a job—we dedicated ourselves to service. With this calling, we had to overcome challenges and obstacles to serve long before COVID arrived.

As with Jesus, the first act of a servant is the willingness to sacrifice and put others first. I know firsthand that jail professionals are often required to put certain professional responsibilities ahead of their families, their personal interests, and many other sacrifices in order to serve those entrusted to their care.

For me, I am reminded of what a complete sacrifice looks like through the eyes of Jesus. After Jesus and the 12 disciples had eaten, Jesus performed one of the most selfless acts any man could do. In John 12:4–5, “He riseth from supper and laid aside his garment; and took a towel and girded himself. After he poureth water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.”

Understanding the culture at the time, the job of feet washing was only done by those who were at the bottom of the socioeconomic food chain. Jesus felt it was so very important to show the disciples what true servanthood was like. Concluding Thought As each of you has sacrificed so much in the last two years, I want to personally say thank you for all the sacrifices, dedication, and professionalism each of you portrays as you honor our profession in an incredible way.

I pray the protection and blessings of the Lord over each one of you and your families. Job well done!

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Pastor Shane Dotson, MS, CCE Chaplain American Jail Association