This caused me to wonder how many of my friends participate in this rite. So I asked the question on my Facebook page.
The responses I received, weren't really a surprise, but rather a confirmation of what I suspected: That we feel like it's right and good to warn other motorists when a police officer may catch them breaking the law. I find this more than a little disturbing, because of the implications. That the majority of those who responded are Christians is even more distressing.
What I have concluded in this scenario is that there is an "us vs. them" conflict in play, and we are choosing to side with the lawbreakers.
Many will accuse me, with this statement, of blowing things out of proportion. After all, while speeding is "technically" against that law, it's a very minor offense, and one widely practiced. It's not a big deal. In addition, the officers employ deceitful tactics, and set traps to catch offenders with the purpose of raising revenue, not making the roadways safer.
What's in italics in the previous paragraph might serve as a summary of the justifications I have heard for speeding. Some of you, however, are honest enough to admit you have a "need for speed", and are willing to accept the consequences should you get caught.
The bottom line is: Exceeding the speed limit IS against the law, and the authorities have a right (indeed an obligation) to enforce it. Also, when a driver operates his vehicle at a speed different than the general flow of traffic, he poses a danger to himself and those around him. The greater the difference in speed the greater the danger, and excessive speed is reckless.
One responder indicated that flashing your lights at oncoming vehicles does serve the purpose of causing them to slow down, thereby improving safety, but I don't believe this will make a lasting impression. In fact, I might argue that by helping him achieve a "victory" over his "enemy", you could increase the likelihood that he will do it again. No, speaking with experience, what makes you really change your habits is a 90 day probation during which, if you receive another ticket, you will be punished for both offenses.
As for the other excuses listed above, what happens when you apply them to a different crime, such as shoplifting. Department store detectives use deceit (disguise and cameras) to help catch shoplifters. If you happened to see someone put an item in a purse, and knew that the act was caught on camera or by a detective posing as another shopper, would you warn that person so they wouldn't be caught? Would you feel like you were reducing crime by doing so?
Also, the so called "sin tax" is a widely accepted practice. I have no problem having those who speed pay the "tax"that the government collects instead of raising my taxes, the same as smokers paying the tax on cigarettes.
Finally, while I believe there are some corrupt law enforcers (just as there are in the rest of society), I do not believe this is the norm. Most of them choose this field because they have a sense of duty to uphold what is right, and to correct what is wrong. I have great respect for the men and women who daily put their lives in danger in order to keep me safe. Why, then, would I want to work against them?
"Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." (Romans 13:2)
Posts
