New York City Mayor Eric Adams didn’t only utter scripture during fallen NYPD Officer Jason Rivera’s funeral; Adams’ office also shared biblical truth on its official Twitter account.
The mayor quoted from John 15:13 Friday during his eulogy for Rivera — a verse that speaks about sacrificial love.
“It takes courage to put on a uniform and a badge, to answer the call, to serve the cause of justice in every sense of the word,” the mayor said. “This is a biblical moment. Scripture states: ‘Greater love have no one than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.'”
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Adams noted that Rivera, 22, lost his life doing this very thing for his community.
“He gave his life defending his fellow New Yorkers,” he said. “That greater love unites us here today, standing side by side.”
The decision to share the scripture reference is a remarkable moment considering the context of the words and the portion of the Bible that Adams chose to recite.
But it didn’t end there. The NYC Mayor’s Office also tweeted a portion of this proclamation, specifically including the words from John 15:13.
“Scripture states, ‘Greater love hath no one than this: that a man lay down his life for his friends.’ That’s just what Jason did.”
— NYC Mayor’s Office (@NYCMayorsOffice) January 29, 2022
– @NYCMayor’s eulogy for Detective First Grade Jason Rivera. pic.twitter.com/tP7rceQBOH
John 15:13 is an incredible definition of what it means to be a good friend. Jesus offered a blueprint of love and devotion when he uttered these words.
“Jesus is the pure example of a true friend, for He laid down His life for His ‘friends,'” GotQuestions.org explained of this scripture. “What is more, anyone may become His friend by trusting in Him as his personal savior, being born again and receiving new life in Him.”
Adams spent his 11-minute eulogy comforting Rivera’s family and speaking of his own experience as a retired cop. He praised Rivera’s brave and bold actions and pledged support to officers.
Watch the full eulogy:
As Faithwire previously reported, Rivera responded to a domestic disturbance in Harlem Jan. 21. He and partner Wilbert Mora, 27, were reportedly shot and killed by suspect Lashawn McNeil.
The tragedy has gripped the nation — and the world. Cops from as far as the Middle East reportedly came to New York to pay respects to Rivera last week, as a “sea of blue” stretched throughout the city’s streets.
Similar sights are expected this week, as Mora’s wake will take place Tuesday, and his funeral will be Wednesday.
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