Christmas Day Message: Peace on Earth Starts with Us
December 25, 2025 | Chaplain Dr. Kevin Lamb, Thomas County Sheriff's Office
"Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests." - Luke 2:14
Merry Christmas, Thomas County!
Today, as families across our community gather around Christmas trees and dinner tables, several of our deputies are answering calls, patrolling neighborhoods, and standing watch. To those officers on duty today: your service IS worship. Your sacrifice IS sacred.
The Peace We Protect
When the angels announced Christ's birth, they proclaimed "peace on earth." But this wasn't passive peace; it was peace that required protection, peace that needed guardians.
Two thousand years later, that peace still needs protectors. Every domestic dispute you de-escalate, every dangerous driver you stop, every emergency you respond to; you’re actively maintaining the peace that Christ came to bring.
The Hebrew word for peace, "shalom," doesn't just mean the absence of conflict. It means wholeness, safety, prosperity, and well-being for everyone. That's exactly what you work toward every shift.
Peacemakers in Action
Jesus said, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God" (Matthew 5:9). Here's how you live that out daily:
In Traffic Stops: That moment of respect and professionalism can change someone's entire day; maybe their entire view of law enforcement.
In Crisis Calls: Your calm presence in chaos brings peace to terrified families. You're often the first person they see who makes them feel safe again.
In Community Interactions: Every wave to a child, every conversation with a store owner, every school visit, you’re building bridges of peace.
In Difficult Moments: When you choose de-escalation over confrontation, patience over frustration, you're choosing the way of the Prince of Peace.
Christmas Day Prayer for Thomas County Sheriff's Office
Heavenly Father, on this day when we celebrate Your Son coming to earth, we lift up our Thomas County Sheriff's Office family.
For those working today: Bless them with Your presence in every patrol car, Your wisdom in every decision, Your protection in every call. Let them feel the prayers of our community surrounding them.
For their families at home: Comfort those missing their loved ones today. Help them feel proud of the sacrifice being made and the service being rendered.
For our community: Help us see these officers as Your gift to us—men and women called to serve, protect, and maintain Your peace in our neighborhoods.
Lord, let every person who encounters our officers today see a glimpse of Your love, Your justice, and Your peace. Bring them all home safely to their families. In Jesus' name, Amen.
You Are Not Forgotten
To every officer reading this on duty today: Thomas County sees you. God sees you. Your sacrifice matters.
The baby born in Bethlehem grew up knowing what it meant to serve others sacrificially. He understands your heart of service. You're not just keeping the peace; you're participating in God's ongoing work of bringing His kingdom to earth.
Thank you for your watch. Thank you for your service. Thank you for being peacemakers.
Merry Christmas, and stay safe out there.
