The Bible that Survived the Flames – And the Unexpected Encounter that Touched our Hearts

Posted by Ketryna Wade
On November 24, 2025

A Night to Remember at Mar-A-Lago

Cover image Photo by: Munoz Photography

The story of going to Mar-A-Lago really began weeks before the event, when we received a text from Kyle Reyes (the organizer) inviting us to attend the first annual Big Blue Bash Gala at President Trump’s Mar-A-Lago property. With tickets starting at $5,000—and the date landing during a very busy season of travel for Mission First Alliance—we respectfully declined. A few weeks later, Kyle reached out again to ask if we could attend if the tickets were donated at half price. Even then, it simply wasn’t possible for us financially, so we declined once more. We were completely at peace with the decision and already felt honored just to be invited.

Then, just over a week before the event, Kyle texted Jeremy again: “We found a donor to cover the full cost of two tickets for you and Ketryna.” After prayer and talking through our full schedule, we finally replied, “Yes, we are all in.”

What followed was a whirlwind—reworking our calendar, securing a hotel and flights, completing the required background checks, and rushing to find a dress and tux. We sensed the Lord was placing this opportunity before us, and we were thrilled to step into it. It truly felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we were deeply honored to be included.

Thanks to Jeremy’s parents, who cared for our kids, as well as support from our friends Rob and Rita Cox, everything came together. We were ready to attend what was shaping up to be one of the biggest law enforcement events of the year. The guest list was filled with major leaders from the White House and various celebrities. We went with a simple goal: to share our ministry and our heart to bring Christ to our nation’s first responders. We didn’t fully know what to expect, but we entrusted the outcome to the Lord.

A Night Filled With Worship, Testimonies, and Hope

And wow—were we blown away. Not just by the venue, but by how boldly Christ was exalted. Nearly every conversation we had, every speaker, and every musician pointed directly to Jesus. This was not the typical fundraiser or gala. It was a hope-filled gathering designed to uplift and support law enforcement at a time when so many officers are discouraged and losing hope. We know where Real Hope is found—it’s in Jesus—and that message was proclaimed again and again throughout the night.

Photo by: Munoz Photography

The Bible that Survived the Flames

We could share story after story from the evening, but here is one that deeply moved us.

One of the families honored at the Big Blue Bash was from Pierce County in Washington State—just south of Seattle, where Jeremy had served as an officer. Their table was right next to ours. As Kyle began to share their story, we immediately recognized it. We remembered watching their son’s memorial service. Deputy Sheriff Cooper Dyson was killed in the line of duty in December 2019 when his patrol vehicle crashed while he was responding to a “help the officer” call. His vehicle caught fire on impact, and he was tragically killed, leaving behind his expectant wife and two-year-old child.

What always stood out to us about Cooper’s story was his love for Jesus. His memorial service was a powerful testimony of his faith. When investigators recovered his burned vehicle, they found only one item untouched by the flames—Cooper’s Bible.

As Kyle held up Cooper’s Bible for the entire audience to see, the room erupted in applause to honor his parents and grandparents, who had driven across the country to be there. Jeremy was still serving in law enforcement when Cooper died, and we remember how deeply that loss impacted our law enforcement family in Washington.

Image on left Photo by: Munoz Photography

A Divine Appointment We Never Expected

After sharing their story, Cooper’s family was honored and moved to the VIP section. We were disappointed not to be seated near them anymore, but later that night Ketryna made her way over to their table to connect. She didn’t realize until afterward that she had stepped into a high-security area—but she was so thankful she did. She had the chance to briefly meet them, share a bit of our story, and exchange numbers. Now we are building a friendship that we believe will strengthen this mission of bringing Christ to this unseen mission field. Cooper’s father, a recently retired firefighter, understands the darkness these professions can experience. Only God could arrange a meeting like that—connecting us in Florida with a family tied to our home state. To God be the glory.

The entire evening was filled with moments like this—miracles, really. Worship was led by Sean Feucht, and people in the room were raising their hands to accept Christ for the first time or recommit their lives to Him. Testimonies of faith, courage, and God’s goodness were shared. Husbands were challenged to lead their wives as Christ leads the Church, and many laid hands on their wives and prayed over them, acknowledging the sacrifices their families make.

Image on left Photo by: Munoz Photography

The food was incredible, but the fellowship was even better. We are so grateful to Kyle, and the team at Law Enforcement Today, for keeping Christ at the very center of the event.

Photo Gallery from Big Blue bash

Photo by: Munoz Photography
Photo by: Munoz Photography
Photo by: Munoz Photography
Photo by: Munoz Photography
Photo by: Munoz Photography
Photo by: Munoz Photography
Photo by: Munoz Photography
Photo by: Munoz Photography
Photo by: Munoz Photography
Photo by: Munoz Photography
Photo by: Munoz Photography

If this story stirred something in you, you’re not alone. If you need prayer, support, or someone to connect with, we’re here to help you take the next step toward hope. Please reach out to us through our Contact Us page, or leave a comment below.

Ketryna Wade
Ketryna Wade grew up in a first responder family, which made the transition easier when her husband decided to go into law enforcement. Over the years, she came alongside to support and disciple many other first responder spouses. Then God opened more doors for her to support spouses during the Seattle riots, and after other critical incidents. God has blessed Ketryna with so many organizational and artistic talents, that she now uses to serve this ministry, and ultimately first responder families nationwide. Ketryna Wade is the Operations Director for Mission First Alliance. She has been married to Jeremy Wade, the Executive Director of Mission First Alliance, since 2004, and has four beautiful children, Olivia, Dustin, Avery, and Michael (who was adopted out of foster care).

Related Posts

Comments

7 Comments

  1. James Warden

    This was the news letter I was waiting for! So glad the event was even better than expected. I knew it would be. Thanks for putting the news letter together so quickly. You guys really looked the part!

    Reply
  2. MC Williams

    I had friends there but I (Centurion LE Ministry) didn’t get an invite. Blessings.

    Reply
  3. Lindsay Coppinger

    It’s been an amazing year of seeing the Lord’s hand on Mission First Alliance & the connections. This is one of those providential gifts that puts the icing on the cake! “Only God!” More wins beneath the sails!

    Reply
    • Teresa Jones

      To God be the glory!

      Reply
  4. Bruce Rivera

    Jeremiah 29:11 is at work in reaching and encouraging first responders. The anointing is obvious and beautiful.

    Reply
    • Jeremy Wade

      Yes!!! God is moving!

      Reply
  5. Tony Simmons

    Praise the Lord!

    Reply

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Join Our Email List

Keep up with all the latest news, articles, events and opportunities from Mission First Alliance.

Your information is safe with us.