Tower of Light
“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” — Proverbs 18:10
In Scripture and biblical tradition, a tower is a place of watchfulness, refuge, and strength. Light represents revelation, guidance, and hope in the darkness. Together, Migdal Ohr, which translates to “Tower of Light,” paints a powerful image of God’s servants standing firm in difficult places, bearing illumination where shadows are closing in.
As Sheriff Chaplains, we are often placed at the crossroads of pain and duty, justice and mercy, life and loss. We walk beside the first responders we serve into scenes where others leave. We listen when words are hard to find. We stand steady when chaos threatens to overwhelm.
We are not called to remove the darkness — only to carry the Light into it.
A tower does not chase the storm. It stands.
A light does not argue with the night. It shines.
A tower is visible from afar. Even when silent, it testifies to safety. In the same way, our presence — uniformed or not, speaking or simply standing — becomes a signal that speaks to weary officers, broken families, and frightened souls: “You are not alone.”
Migdal Ohr reminds us that our strength does not come from having all the answers, but from being anchored in the Lord, who is the answer — our very tower of strength. When our feet are planted in Him, our lives and our service become a refuge others instinctively run toward.
Regarding the New Year ahead, it will bring moments of grief, moral tension, fatigue, and unseen victories. You may feel unseen, underappreciated, or emotionally spent.
Remember this:
Towers are built stone by stone — faithfulness in small moments matters.
Light travels farther than sound — your quiet faith reaches farther than you know.
A tower remains standing because of its foundation — not its height.
Remain rooted in Christ. Let Him refill what service pours out. Let His light shine through your compassion, your listening ear, your calm presence, and your prayers offered quietly behind the scenes.
Prayer: Lord, you are our strong tower and our unending light. As we enter this new year, strengthen every chaplain who serves in places of pain and pressure. When the nights are long, be their light. When the burden is heavy, be their refuge. Make them towers of hope — steady, faithful, and filled with Your presence. May those they serve glimpse Your mercy through them. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
By Chaplain JR Stanley