Today I am attending a luncheon that is being held in honor of the Granbury Police Department investigators, The Texas Rangers, and members of the District Attorney’s office in Hood County. They are being honored for their dedicated service in investigating and ultimately prosecuting the murders of Shawna Farris and Robyn Richter. Carrying out justice in this case took nearly three years. To say that everyone involved was tenacious is an understatement.
I am privileged to serve with all of these men and women everyday. I have always had great respect for those on the law enforcement side as well as those that are responsible for prosecuting. They are fine people.
This case was special. There are many details I cannot divulge, but I can say that the families of these victims have touched my life over the past three years.  I assisted with the notifications the day of the crime and also officiated at a memorial service for Robyn. When we get ready to give thanks for the meal today, I will share this blessing that I wrote to give all of us some perspective regarding those that protect and serve.

Blessed are the peacemakers…

Blessed are those that enter dark places, where the worst of human motives and actions have been displayed.

Blessed are the peacemakers…

Blessed are those who are tireless in their efforts to discover what really happened, when another human being has been robbed of their very life.

Blessed are the peacemakers…

Blessed are those who are tenacious in dealing with those who lie and deceive, and avoid the consequences of their choices.

Blessed are the peacemakers…

Blessed are those that are patient as well as demanding. If justice is to be done, every t must be crossed and every i must be dotted.

Blessed are the peacemakers…

Blessed are those that sacrifice their personal time week after week, so that they will be prepared to speak openly on behalf of those who are no longer on this earth to speak on their own behalf.

Blessed are the peacemakers…

Blessed are those that bring peace to the hearts of those whose lives have been changed forever by darkness. Blessed are those who will continue to enter dark places, because they are called to protect and serve.

Blessed are those that protect and serve, for they are the peacemakers.