New Year, New Purpose: A Chaplain's Perspective on Fresh Starts
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" - 2 Corinthians 5:17
Welcome to 2026, Thomas County! As I write this first blog post of the new year, I'm reminded that fresh starts aren't just calendar events, they’re spiritual opportunities.
The Power of New Beginnings
There's something powerful about January 1st that goes beyond changing calendars. It's a chance to reset, refocus, and recommit to what matters most. For law enforcement officers, this fresh start carries extra significance because your work directly impacts the safety and well-being of our entire community.
Maybe 2025 was a challenging year. Perhaps you experienced difficult calls, community criticism, or personal struggles that left you questioning your purpose. Today is your opportunity to rediscover why God called you to wear that badge.
Rediscovering Your Purpose:
Your badge isn't just a piece of metal; it’s a symbol of your calling. Every time you put it on, you're accepting the responsibility to be God's hands and feet in our community. You're choosing to stand between chaos and order, between danger and safety, between fear and peace.
Ask yourself these questions as we begin 2026:
What originally drew me to law enforcement?
How has God used my service to impact others?
What legacy do I want to leave in Thomas County?
How can I serve with renewed purpose this year?
Biblical Purpose in Law Enforcement
Scripture is clear about the role of those who serve in authority: "For the one in authority is God's servant for your good" (Romans 13:4).
You're not just working for a paycheck; you’re serving as God's representative in our community.
This doesn't mean you're perfect or that every decision is easy. It means your work has eternal significance. Every life you protect, every crime you prevent, every person you treat with dignity, these actions matter to God.
Practical Steps for 2026
1. Start Each Shift with Purpose Before clearing with dispatch, take 30 seconds to pray: "God, help me serve with integrity, wisdom, and compassion today."
2. Look for God Moments Watch for opportunities to show kindness, offer hope, or make a positive difference beyond just enforcing the law.
3. Connect with Your Why Keep a photo or reminder of why you became an officer. A family member's safety, a desire to help others, a calling to serve justice.
4. Invest in Growth Commit to one area of personal or professional development this year—whether it's fitness, continuing education, or spiritual growth.
A Fresh Start for Our Community
Thomas County, let's make 2026 a year of partnership between citizens and law enforcement. Our officers serve with renewed purpose, and our community can support them with appreciation, prayers, and cooperation.
2026 is full of possibilities. New relationships to build, new problems to solve, new ways to serve our community with excellence and integrity.
Your fresh start begins now.
Chaplain Dr. Kevin Lamb
Thomas County Sheriff's Office
"Serving those who serve,"
