NY TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR LOOKS AT
“Life as the Son of a Cop" Special Event at Calvary Chapel South Denver, 7:OO PM on Nov. 10.
Jerry B. Jenkins, of Black Forest, Colo., is best known for writing the blockbuster apocalyptic Left Behind Series, but most recently, he’s drawn to a subject matter close to his heart. His latest two novels The Brotherhood and The Betrayal are police thrillers set in Chicago. The real lives of law enforcement officers is a subject Jenkins knows intimately, as his father was a Chief of Police and his two older brothers were lifetime cops too. He will talk about life from the perspective of a child of a cop in a special event and booksigning hosted by The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry at Calvary Chapel South Denver (www.CalvaryCSD.org) on Thursday, Nov. 10 at 7:00 pm.
"I’m sort of the black sheep in my immediate family as the first male who didn’t become a cop,” Jenkins says smiling. “I grew up immersed in law enforcement without ever wearing a badge."
With his trademark sense of humor and insight, Jenkins will prove that he really understands the life of a police officer and offer encouragement and challenge to those in uniform. He believes those in law enforcement, as well as their families, friends, and neighbors, can be uniquely used by God.
The first two books in Jenkins’s new cop series The Brotherhood and The Betrayal came out earlier this year to positive reviews. Booklist magazine name The Brotherhood one of the “Top 10 Inspirational Books of the Year.” The thrillers feature Boone Drake, a young officer rising rapidly through the ranks of the Chicago Police Department. From all outward appearances, Drake’s life is perfect with a beautiful wife, young son, a nice home and pending promotion to the Organized Crime Division. But in a single moment all of it is shattered. With his life spiraling out of control, Drake crosses paths with Chicago’s most vicious gang leader and begins to understand that God can forgive the worst crimes and hardest of hearts.
Jerry B. Jenkins is the most prolific and highest-selling evangelical novelist of our time. He is the author of more than 175 books, including the 63,000,000-selling Left Behind series. Jenkins has a longtime association with Moody Bible Institute in Chicago where he was former editor of Moody Magazine, vice president for publishing, and is now chairman of the board of trustees. Jenkins owns Jenkins Entertainment (www.Jenkins-Entertainment.com), a filmmaking company in Chicago, and the Colorado Springs-based Christian Writers Guild (www.ChristianWritersGuild.com), which aims to train tomorrow’s professional Christian writers.
The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry is a non-denominational, evangelical Christian outreach by, for and about law enforcement personnel (police, deputies, investigators, probation/parole, corrections, military, etc.). TCLEM is affiliated with the Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO) and provides Bible-based support, fellowship, and accountability for officers worldwide. This event is FREE and open to the public!
WHAT: “Life as the Son of a Cop” — a special evening and booksigning with bestselling author Jerry B. Jenkins, sponsored by The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry. * FREE and open-to-the public! Jerry will also be today's (11/08/11) guest of Pastor Gino Geraci on his daily radio show, "Crosswalk with Gino Geraci" from 4-6 PM (MT) on KRKS 94.7 FM -- www.947krks.com/LocalHosts/19/.
WHEN: Thursday, Nov. 10 at 7:00 PM
WHERE: Calvary Chapel South Denver
9052 W Ken Caryl Ave
Littleton, CO 80128
(303) 933-8733
Media Contact: For interviews with Jerry B. Jenkins or review copy request, contact Beverly Rykerd at (719) 481-0537 or beverly@rykerd.com. Information about the event or to learn more about The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry, contact Det. Sgt./Chaplain M.C. Williams at thecenturionministry@yahoo.com or via cell at 720-371-1022.
Showing posts with label Calvary South Denver. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Calvary South Denver. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Newsletter Issues & Announcements
Fellow Servant-Warriors:
Due to ongoing issues with the way I currently send out the newsletter (Yahoo mail), this week's version will be posted here on the website only this week (stay tuned). I'm continuing to work on the problem -- please bear with me.
The Denver-Area Meeting Schedule is posted here on our website --"eyes left" -- and is updated regularly. We are in fact meeting tonight as scheduled starting at 1900 hours (7 PM for civilians:) at Calvary South Denver in Littleton -- High School Room if finished, Cafe if not. I'll be teaching a profession-relevant message I've entitled "We Don't Leave our Wounded." Please invite a colleague, bring your spouse, and join us for this unique "cop church" time of fellowship, Bible study and prayer.
I'm also encouraging local officers and their spouses to join us for our Tuesday Night Dialogue service at Calvary South Denver in Littleton next Tuesday (November 1st) starting at 7 PM. Pastor Sam will be teaching on the Church of Laodicea in Revelation 3 -- specifically the issue of "lukewarm" (aka ROD -- "Retired on Duty") Christians. It has very specific application to us in law enforcement and one that is also very near/dear to my heart -- please join us for a powerful time of worship, fellowship, teaching of God's word, and great food afterwards to boot (free for 1st time attendees). FREE child care is provided as well!
Finally, an updated list of Prayer Requests have been posted below (following post): please take the time to join us in praying for our brothers and sisters all over the U.S and the world.
More to come -- check back frequently!
Due to ongoing issues with the way I currently send out the newsletter (Yahoo mail), this week's version will be posted here on the website only this week (stay tuned). I'm continuing to work on the problem -- please bear with me.
The Denver-Area Meeting Schedule is posted here on our website --"eyes left" -- and is updated regularly. We are in fact meeting tonight as scheduled starting at 1900 hours (7 PM for civilians:) at Calvary South Denver in Littleton -- High School Room if finished, Cafe if not. I'll be teaching a profession-relevant message I've entitled "We Don't Leave our Wounded." Please invite a colleague, bring your spouse, and join us for this unique "cop church" time of fellowship, Bible study and prayer.
I'm also encouraging local officers and their spouses to join us for our Tuesday Night Dialogue service at Calvary South Denver in Littleton next Tuesday (November 1st) starting at 7 PM. Pastor Sam will be teaching on the Church of Laodicea in Revelation 3 -- specifically the issue of "lukewarm" (aka ROD -- "Retired on Duty") Christians. It has very specific application to us in law enforcement and one that is also very near/dear to my heart -- please join us for a powerful time of worship, fellowship, teaching of God's word, and great food afterwards to boot (free for 1st time attendees). FREE child care is provided as well!
Finally, an updated list of Prayer Requests have been posted below (following post): please take the time to join us in praying for our brothers and sisters all over the U.S and the world.
More to come -- check back frequently!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
A Warrior's Destiny & Legacy
With National Police Week coming to a close, this is a great time to talk about what God has to say about our DESTINY and LEGACY as servant-leaders, husbands, fathers and warriors. That will be the topic of this Friday’s profession-relevant, tactical Bible study and fellowship meeting at Calvary Chapel Aurora. If you’re in the Denver-Metro area, we hope you will join us (see below for more details). Regardless, this ministry is very much a national and international one so I’ll post my usual RECAP in next week’s newsletter – stay tuned!
Speaking of Police Week, I’m interested in hearing feedback and receiving pics from those who were able to attend our events in DC this year. Shoot me an email at fullarmor911@yahoo.com if you want to share.
My friend and fellow law enforcement ministry leader, Tulsa PD Capt. Travis Yates of Ten-Four Ministries (www.tenfourministries.org), has been in Washington and recorded a short (5 minutes) message that is absolutely on target as it relates to officers and where we will spend eternity. Travis very much shares my own sense of urgency about sharing the truth of the gospel with our fellow warriors. As such, I urge you to take a few minutes to watch and listen: http://thecenturionpapers.blogspot.com/2011/05/mans-greatest-problem.html.
_________________________
MESSAGE RECAP
Last week’s study again centered on servant-leadership in law enforcement. Here’s the recap that you can adapt to your own studies:
As I prepared for this study, my time in God’s inerrant word (the Bible) again revealed that law enforcement leaders are in fact called to many of the same requirements as pastors. Speaking about pastors and leadership, Calvary Chapel Aurora Pastor Ed Taylor recently said that God never intended church leaders to be just teachers but rather that they are to be true pastors -- shepherds -- who will go out of their way to care for the “flock” entrusted to them. Just as there are sadly way too many "pastors" who are content to teach rather than lead and shepherd their flock, my biblically based belief is that the same sin issue is epidemic in law enforcement and the military (and has the same biblical solution).
Our primary text came was Philippians 2:19-24 where we see an imprisoned Paul commending his protégé Timothy to the Philippian fellowship ("church") of believers. The passage reveals that if we are truly focused on the interests of Jesus Christ then we will be better able to focus on the needs of others. If we know (*personal relationship) Whom we serve, we can better understand and appreciate that God has granted us positions of influence and power to truly serve and protect His people. Moreover, the text reveals that we’ve been called to lead with God’s kingdom in mind rather than only thinking about our own welfare, position and power. In fact, the Bible uses Greek word diakonos -- deacon -- means "servant" and has direct application to us both in law enforcement and in the church (see 1 Timothy 3:8-13).
In Luke 22, Jesus says, I am among you as one who serves. Understand that the leadership, authority and influence we have as cops is ordained and conferred on us by God (see also Romans 13:1-7) for the benefit of others.
So what are the qualities and disciplines of a godly servant-leader (peace officer)? The following are key elements of abiding in Christ (John 15) and must be seen as being progressive in nature:
Servant Leadership - Humility
A key characteristic and focus of servant leadership is humility. Why? Because, God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5). Humility is also the belief that apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5).
Servant Leadership - Seeking Him First
The beginning point for "abiding in Him" is seeking Him first in all things. Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) vividly demonstrates this principle: And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
Servant Leadership - Loving Him Through Obedience
The next discipline of servant leadership -- "abiding in Him" -- is loving Him. The Bible makes it clear that our love for God is demonstrated by our obedience (John 14:15, 23-24; John 15:10; 1 John 5:3, etc.). If we are to be Christ-led, we must be willing to obey regardless of the cost. Obedience consists of three components: (1) timeliness (act or speak when the Lord indicates, not before and not after); (2) fullness (partial obedience is disobedience -- sin); and (3) joyfulness (not grumbling, complaining, whining, etc.).
Servant Leadership - Serving Him In All We Do
Jesus established this biblical principle with his twelve apostles in response to their concern about who would be the greatest -- He explained that the greatest must be a servant of all (Matthew 23:11). For the Christian officer, this means that as we serve the people in our care, we are also serving Jesus Himself.
Servant Leadership - Exalting Him Above All Else
Servant leadership is leading for His glory and not our own. Paul exhorts us, Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Jesus instructs us to shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify the Father who is in heaven (Matthew 5:16).
Servant Leadership - A Requirement of Accountability
Servant leadership requires accountability. In Ephesians 4:15, Paul explains how the Body of Christ matures when its members "speak the truth in love" to one another. Then, in the next chapter, Paul exhorts us to be imitators of God by walking in love, putting aside immorality, learning what is pleasing to the Lord, being careful how we walk, understanding the Lord, and giving thanks for all things. He closes the final (6th) chapter of Ephesians with a key for doing this: "be subject to one another in the fear of Christ." In other words, each of us has the responsibility to: (a) "walk in the light" (be vulnerable and keep nothing hidden in darkness); (b) be held accountable for our walk with Christ; and (c) hold others accountable to their walk with the Lord. In short, we should walk openly, speak the truth humbly in love, and eagerly receive that love. Thus, to practice the discipline of accountability, a Christian officer is COMMANDED to be in active fellowship with others. See also 1 John 1:7; Proverbs 27:6, 9; 1 John 1:9.
Please take the time to take this study to heart and put its principles into practice – and then watch what God will do through you to change our profession and the society we serve.
______________________
PRAYER REQUESTS:
Prayer requests continue to come in and I urge you to go to scroll down here on our website and join us in praying for these pressing needs. I update them almost daily -- check back frequently.
______________________
DENVER-AREA NEWS & ANNOUCEMENTS:
** Our local MEETING SCHEDULE(s) is posted here on our website (scroll down) and updated regularly. Again, don’t forget that we are NOT meeting this Thursday at Calvary South Denver in Littleton but rather at Calvary Chapel Aurora (www.calvaryaurora.org) on Friday, May 20th starting at 7 PM in Room 144. Pass the word!
** Recent events are causing many to reflect on their destination after this life ends and when/if Jesus will return for His own. Accordingly, I want to point “locals” to two great studies getting started on the Book of Revelation:
(1) Pastor Ed Taylor at Calvary Chapel Aurora is teaching through Revelation (There is NO “s” in Revelation!!) on Wednesday evenings staring at 7 PM. See www.CalvaryAurora.org for details.
(2) Pastor Sam Park at Calvary South Denver will start through Revelation at our unique, warrior-relevant Tuesday Night Dialogue (TND) services beginning next Tuesday at 7 PM. Many of our Centurion Ministry regulars attend TND as well. We also serve dinner right after the service (free to first-timers). See www.CalvaryCSD.org for details.
Yes folks – I’m actually trying to get you into a church (fellowship and relationship, not “religion”) where God’s word is taught in Spirit and truth. Moreover, I promise that you will not spontaneously combust when you walk through the doors! Bottom line is that ANY day(s) of the week can be your “Sabbath” – just come (bring the spouse and kids) and be in fellowship.
** TOP GUN POLICE MOTOR OFFICERS COMPETITION!
The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry/FCPO-Denver will be a sponsor at the 2011 Top Gun Police Motor Officers Competition (www.topguncops.com) on Sunday, June 5th in Lakewood. Stop by our booth and say hello – and I’ll have our “retired” Aurora PD motor on hand. This is yet another op for us to share the gospel with our brother/sister officers. Great sponsors as well and Colorado State Trooper Scott Hinshaw tells me he’ll be in attendance (he is a former competitor). Please plan on joining us.
That’s it for this week folks but, before I “let you go,” I must again ask if you are right with God today. That means being right by His standard as opposed to your own. If not, please scroll down the left side of this website to the “Are you a true Christian” links. Tomorrow is guaranteed to no one (especially cops) -- repent and turn to Him today as tomorrow may very well be too late. Regardless, stay the course out there and know that I’m “here” to serve YOU in any way possible. Don’t forget to forward this newsletter to those on your email lists (easy way to share the Lord with others).
Speaking of Police Week, I’m interested in hearing feedback and receiving pics from those who were able to attend our events in DC this year. Shoot me an email at fullarmor911@yahoo.com if you want to share.
My friend and fellow law enforcement ministry leader, Tulsa PD Capt. Travis Yates of Ten-Four Ministries (www.tenfourministries.org), has been in Washington and recorded a short (5 minutes) message that is absolutely on target as it relates to officers and where we will spend eternity. Travis very much shares my own sense of urgency about sharing the truth of the gospel with our fellow warriors. As such, I urge you to take a few minutes to watch and listen: http://thecenturionpapers.blogspot.com/2011/05/mans-greatest-problem.html.
_________________________
MESSAGE RECAP
Last week’s study again centered on servant-leadership in law enforcement. Here’s the recap that you can adapt to your own studies:
As I prepared for this study, my time in God’s inerrant word (the Bible) again revealed that law enforcement leaders are in fact called to many of the same requirements as pastors. Speaking about pastors and leadership, Calvary Chapel Aurora Pastor Ed Taylor recently said that God never intended church leaders to be just teachers but rather that they are to be true pastors -- shepherds -- who will go out of their way to care for the “flock” entrusted to them. Just as there are sadly way too many "pastors" who are content to teach rather than lead and shepherd their flock, my biblically based belief is that the same sin issue is epidemic in law enforcement and the military (and has the same biblical solution).
Our primary text came was Philippians 2:19-24 where we see an imprisoned Paul commending his protégé Timothy to the Philippian fellowship ("church") of believers. The passage reveals that if we are truly focused on the interests of Jesus Christ then we will be better able to focus on the needs of others. If we know (*personal relationship) Whom we serve, we can better understand and appreciate that God has granted us positions of influence and power to truly serve and protect His people. Moreover, the text reveals that we’ve been called to lead with God’s kingdom in mind rather than only thinking about our own welfare, position and power. In fact, the Bible uses Greek word diakonos -- deacon -- means "servant" and has direct application to us both in law enforcement and in the church (see 1 Timothy 3:8-13).
In Luke 22, Jesus says, I am among you as one who serves. Understand that the leadership, authority and influence we have as cops is ordained and conferred on us by God (see also Romans 13:1-7) for the benefit of others.
So what are the qualities and disciplines of a godly servant-leader (peace officer)? The following are key elements of abiding in Christ (John 15) and must be seen as being progressive in nature:
Servant Leadership - Humility
A key characteristic and focus of servant leadership is humility. Why? Because, God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5). Humility is also the belief that apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5).
Servant Leadership - Seeking Him First
The beginning point for "abiding in Him" is seeking Him first in all things. Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) vividly demonstrates this principle: And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
Servant Leadership - Loving Him Through Obedience
The next discipline of servant leadership -- "abiding in Him" -- is loving Him. The Bible makes it clear that our love for God is demonstrated by our obedience (John 14:15, 23-24; John 15:10; 1 John 5:3, etc.). If we are to be Christ-led, we must be willing to obey regardless of the cost. Obedience consists of three components: (1) timeliness (act or speak when the Lord indicates, not before and not after); (2) fullness (partial obedience is disobedience -- sin); and (3) joyfulness (not grumbling, complaining, whining, etc.).
Servant Leadership - Serving Him In All We Do
Jesus established this biblical principle with his twelve apostles in response to their concern about who would be the greatest -- He explained that the greatest must be a servant of all (Matthew 23:11). For the Christian officer, this means that as we serve the people in our care, we are also serving Jesus Himself.
Servant Leadership - Exalting Him Above All Else
Servant leadership is leading for His glory and not our own. Paul exhorts us, Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Jesus instructs us to shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify the Father who is in heaven (Matthew 5:16).
Servant Leadership - A Requirement of Accountability
Servant leadership requires accountability. In Ephesians 4:15, Paul explains how the Body of Christ matures when its members "speak the truth in love" to one another. Then, in the next chapter, Paul exhorts us to be imitators of God by walking in love, putting aside immorality, learning what is pleasing to the Lord, being careful how we walk, understanding the Lord, and giving thanks for all things. He closes the final (6th) chapter of Ephesians with a key for doing this: "be subject to one another in the fear of Christ." In other words, each of us has the responsibility to: (a) "walk in the light" (be vulnerable and keep nothing hidden in darkness); (b) be held accountable for our walk with Christ; and (c) hold others accountable to their walk with the Lord. In short, we should walk openly, speak the truth humbly in love, and eagerly receive that love. Thus, to practice the discipline of accountability, a Christian officer is COMMANDED to be in active fellowship with others. See also 1 John 1:7; Proverbs 27:6, 9; 1 John 1:9.
Please take the time to take this study to heart and put its principles into practice – and then watch what God will do through you to change our profession and the society we serve.
______________________
PRAYER REQUESTS:
Prayer requests continue to come in and I urge you to go to scroll down here on our website and join us in praying for these pressing needs. I update them almost daily -- check back frequently.
______________________
DENVER-AREA NEWS & ANNOUCEMENTS:
** Our local MEETING SCHEDULE(s) is posted here on our website (scroll down) and updated regularly. Again, don’t forget that we are NOT meeting this Thursday at Calvary South Denver in Littleton but rather at Calvary Chapel Aurora (www.calvaryaurora.org) on Friday, May 20th starting at 7 PM in Room 144. Pass the word!
** Recent events are causing many to reflect on their destination after this life ends and when/if Jesus will return for His own. Accordingly, I want to point “locals” to two great studies getting started on the Book of Revelation:
(1) Pastor Ed Taylor at Calvary Chapel Aurora is teaching through Revelation (There is NO “s” in Revelation!!) on Wednesday evenings staring at 7 PM. See www.CalvaryAurora.org for details.
(2) Pastor Sam Park at Calvary South Denver will start through Revelation at our unique, warrior-relevant Tuesday Night Dialogue (TND) services beginning next Tuesday at 7 PM. Many of our Centurion Ministry regulars attend TND as well. We also serve dinner right after the service (free to first-timers). See www.CalvaryCSD.org for details.
Yes folks – I’m actually trying to get you into a church (fellowship and relationship, not “religion”) where God’s word is taught in Spirit and truth. Moreover, I promise that you will not spontaneously combust when you walk through the doors! Bottom line is that ANY day(s) of the week can be your “Sabbath” – just come (bring the spouse and kids) and be in fellowship.
** TOP GUN POLICE MOTOR OFFICERS COMPETITION!
The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry/FCPO-Denver will be a sponsor at the 2011 Top Gun Police Motor Officers Competition (www.topguncops.com) on Sunday, June 5th in Lakewood. Stop by our booth and say hello – and I’ll have our “retired” Aurora PD motor on hand. This is yet another op for us to share the gospel with our brother/sister officers. Great sponsors as well and Colorado State Trooper Scott Hinshaw tells me he’ll be in attendance (he is a former competitor). Please plan on joining us.
That’s it for this week folks but, before I “let you go,” I must again ask if you are right with God today. That means being right by His standard as opposed to your own. If not, please scroll down the left side of this website to the “Are you a true Christian” links. Tomorrow is guaranteed to no one (especially cops) -- repent and turn to Him today as tomorrow may very well be too late. Regardless, stay the course out there and know that I’m “here” to serve YOU in any way possible. Don’t forget to forward this newsletter to those on your email lists (easy way to share the Lord with others).
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
On Being Like Christ -- TCLEM Newsletter
Fellow Officers:
Here’s this week’s The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry (TCLEM) e-newsletter. It’s a little long but well worth it so lease take a few extra moments to read it through and then pass it on to others on your email lists (very easy way to share Christ with others). In addition, we strongly encourage you to join us in praying for those officers and their families who have submitted the prayer requests posted here on our website. I’ve also added a number of new links, photos, and other fun and helpful info.
Speaking of folks we’ve been praying for, former Mesa (AZ) Officer Lance Heivilin has gone to be with the Lord after a tough battle with a horrific form of cancer. Please know your prayers were in fact answered in accordance with God’s perfect will – our brother is now fully healed and without pain (praise God)! Lance was a relatively new believer but he showed exemplary courage and faith as he faced death. In fact, Lance shared his struggles and coming victory via his “Lance’s 411” Facebook page. The following was one of Lance’s last posts before being taken home to Glory (what a legacy):
"Challenge. Adversity. Calm. Here's the deal, the Lord surrounds us with opportunity. What seems, based on your perspective, is a confrontation. What the "confrontation" turns out to be is your road to peace.
I have spent much of my spiritual life in conflict, constantly engaged in battle. This has been through my short sightedness and inability to trust the entire picture. I have a submission issue. Jesus provided me the guidance, with the right people, at the right time to make the next critical step last night.
I do truly believe this is the beginning. I had a few things holding me back from letting it happen. They were big things, but now do not exist. I am blessed to have been shown this awesome power.
I have started the journey through Hospice. The cancer entered my leg bones 2 days ago. In the past, treatments hoped to be opportunities failed to materialize. I will focus my new energy where it can be used in a positive light. Mission understood!
I thank the Lord and my personal "team" for sharing this intense message for the past 48 hours of my life. My heart is healed, my vision is clear, and I look forward to the days ahead.
Peace to you all. I needed to capture tonight as the turning point. My true acceptance that now is the beginning of forever. Amen? Amen!"
Outstanding! I’m really looking forward to seeing Lance when my own time comes and to see how many others have come to Christ because of Lance’s example and courage. Meanwhile, let’s keep Lance’s family in prayer!
MESSAGE RECAP -- “Warriors Standing in the Gap” (aka “Standing Watch”)
Last week’s message on warriors (cops) “standing in the gap” was again well-attended by our local FCPO-Denver chapter regulars and visitors. Here’s the RECAP for all our readers/followers who reside elsewhere around the world:
With an eye on the prophetically historic events unfolding around us, I was strongly led to send out a reminder that we are “at war” with evil in general and in combating those who would otherwise create anarchy through lawlessness and sin. Accordingly, we must be ever-ready both personally in our relationship with Christ (being right with God) and in our attention to our warrior skills (physical and mental readiness). We in law enforcement are in fact called by God to “stand in the gap” to protect and lead our nation, communities and families against the hosts of the enemy (Satan).
In keeping with this thoroughly biblical theme, God’s inerrant word repeatedly uses the concept of “watchmen” standing guard on a wall. Biblically speaking, watchmen were those officers assigned to STAND a post on a city’s walls to watch and sound the alarm if the enemy approached. In fact, watchmen were under penalty of death if they failed to carry out their sworn duty.
Jack Nicholson character of Col. Jessup in the film A Few Good Men provides a famous modern-day analogy: “Son, we live in a world that has walls, and those walls have to be guarded by men with guns. Whose gonna do it? You? You, Lt. Weinburg?...You weep for Santiago, and you curse the Marines. You have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know. That Santiago's death, while tragic, probably saved lives. And that my existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, saves lives. Deep down in places you don’t talk about at parties, you want me on that wall, you need me on that wall. We use words like honor, code, loyalty. We use these words as the backbone of a life spent defending something. You use them as a punch line. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to a man who rises and sleeps under the blanket of the very freedom I provide, then questions the manner in which I provide it. I prefer you said ‘thank you’ and went on your way, Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a weapon, and stand a post...”
Oohrah! Note however that Jessup was more wolf than sheepdog!
The prophet Ezekiel, another one of God’s “cops” (review last week’s teaching) knew and understood the importance of watchmen standing guard on a wall and lived in a time that had many parallels to what is happening in the world today (and the United States in particular). Ezekiel 3:16-21 (New Living Translation) reads, 16 After seven days the Lord gave me a message. He said, 17 “Son of man, I have appointed you as a watchman for Israel. Whenever you receive a message from me, warn people immediately. 18 If I warn the wicked, saying, ‘You are under the penalty of death,’ but you fail to deliver the warning, they will die in their sins. And I will hold you responsible for their deaths. 19 If you warn them and they refuse to repent and keep on sinning, they will die in their sins. But you will have saved yourself because you obeyed me. 20 “If righteous people turn away from their righteous behavior and ignore the obstacles I put in their way, they will die. And if you do not warn them, they will die in their sins. None of their righteous acts will be remembered, and I will hold you responsible for their deaths. 21 But if you warn righteous people not to sin and they listen to you and do not sin, they will live, and you will have saved yourself, too.
The prophet Isaiah also wrote of this concept. Isaiah 62:6 says, On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have appointed watchmen; all day and all night they will never keep silent, you who remind the LORD, take no rest for yourselves…(refers to being always praying and expecting the Lord’s return).
The apostle Paul saw himself as a watchman, someone who would be positioned on a city wall to stand and watch for the enemy. Quoting Ezekiel, Paul tells the elders in Acts 20:26-28 (NLT), 26 Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of all men. 27 For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God. 28 Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock (those we serve and protect) of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers.[a] Be shepherds of the church of God (God’s people),[b] which He bought with his own blood.
Not unlike what we do as cops and soldiers (sheepdogs), declaring the truth of God’s word is literally a matter of life and death. When we meet someone who is lost or doesn’t know the Lord, we have a God-given responsibility as “watchmen” to tell them the truth. If we know a believer who is/has gone astray, we have a duty as watchmen to warn them – not out of hate or spite but rather out of love – in order to shield and protect them.
In ancient days, cities were often placed under siege and weapons were used to batter or pull down their walls so as to allow the enemy to breach them. The watchmen and other defenders would then be called on to stand in the breach – the GAP – to defend the city. Our Lord expounds on this concept of standing in the gap in Ezekiel 22:29-30. 29 The people of the land have used oppressions, committed robbery, and mistreated the poor and needy; and they wrongfully oppress the stranger. 30 So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one. Ezekiel 13:5 says, You have not gone up to the breaks in the wall to repair it for the house of Israel so that it will stand firm in the battle on the day of the LORD.
God is looking for men willing to build back, build up, restore, protect, renew and revive. And not just as Christian cops in the LOD. No, God is looking for men who know how to build up the self-esteem of their wives. God is looking for men who will make the sacrifices necessary to build up the faith of their family. God is looking for men to guide, encourage and discipline their children. God is looking for men who will be true servant-leaders and not pass on the tasks of ministry and leadership to their wives, but who will rather read them God’s word, teach a class, sweep a floor, visit a sick colleague at the hospital, and generally be the sold-out, “all-in” men of God He is calling us to be!
Note also that being a watchman and standing in the gap refers to intercessory prayer
** For our families
** Our friends
** Our profession and those who serve in it
** Our leaders
** Our country…
When was the last time you looked at the prayer requests on our website and then prayed?
Finally, we looked at the concept of what it means to STAND on that proverbial wall. Luke 21:36 (NIV) says, Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man. 1 Cor 10:12-13 (NIV) tells us, So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
Ephesians 6:10-18 uses the word “stand” 5 times (or more depending on the version). 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted (refers to the nails in a Roman soldier’s boots that allowed them to STAND firm in a shield wall) with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
We MUST daily put on both the whole armor of God along with our physical body armor so that we can watch, stand in the gap and finish strong in Christ!
To conclude, I shared another quote from A Few Good Men. When asked why she liked the Marines so much, the character of Galloway replied, “Because they stand upon a wall and say, "Nothing's going to hurt you tonight, not on my watch." Folks, what we need today are men and women willing stand on in a gap in the wall to watch, defend, and pray for those in our care. That’s our CALL – now (as my fellow Scots say) TO IT!
In the days of Michael Jordan we often heard the phrase "...be like Mike." This week’s I will be teaching on our call (command) to regularly grow stronger in our walk and relationship with Christ -- to be "more like Christ" through a process called sanctification. Please join us if you’re in the Denver-metro area but, if you’re not, you can be assured that I’ll have a detailed recap for you in next week’s newsletter – stay tuned!
FCPO-DENVER (“Locals”) NEWS:
For those who are reading this throughout the Denver-metro area, we are now “solid” for our once-monthly foray into the “mission field” (plains) of Aurora. No, we’re not leaving Calvary South Denver as our home base. Rather, we’ve simply partnered with Pastor Ed Taylor and our friends at Calvary Aurora were we’ll meet every third Thursday of the month in an effort to reach those officers who might not otherwise make the trek to the south metro area. First meeting there is February 17th at 7:00 PM in Room #138. See the following and forthcoimg posts here on website for more details and help us “spread the word.”
LISTEN TO RECENT TEACHING!
Some have asked how they can listen to my recent profession-relevant teaching at Calvary South Denver’s Tuesday Night Dialogue service (regularly attended by a number of our local officers who also attend our Thursday night “Cop Church” services) that mirrored my “Code 3 – A Sense of Urgency” study (see the RECAP in my January 12th post). A link to that teaching has been established on the Calvary South Denver website (www.calvarycsd.org). Just click on
https://public.me.com/sampark777, click on “TND Messages,” “Guest Speakers,” and the message beginning with “01.11.11…Urgency…” You can then download it to your computer or MP3 player. I hope you’ll find it helpful, informative and challenging.
TRAINING SEGMENT
If you’ve not had a chance to see the raw footage from the Detroit PD precinct shooting, take a look at this (lots to think about in terms of tactics not to mention seeing who did and didn’t show true warrior courage). Go to http://www.freep.com/videonetwork/767998473001/Detroit-police-video-of-precinct-shoot-out.
That’s it for this week folks. Check the website frequently for the latest prayer requests and local meeting schedule updates. In the meantime, let’s ask the Lord to help us stand strong in the gap for our families, colleagues and all those God as called us to serve and protect. Be safe!
Here’s this week’s The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry (TCLEM) e-newsletter. It’s a little long but well worth it so lease take a few extra moments to read it through and then pass it on to others on your email lists (very easy way to share Christ with others). In addition, we strongly encourage you to join us in praying for those officers and their families who have submitted the prayer requests posted here on our website. I’ve also added a number of new links, photos, and other fun and helpful info.
Speaking of folks we’ve been praying for, former Mesa (AZ) Officer Lance Heivilin has gone to be with the Lord after a tough battle with a horrific form of cancer. Please know your prayers were in fact answered in accordance with God’s perfect will – our brother is now fully healed and without pain (praise God)! Lance was a relatively new believer but he showed exemplary courage and faith as he faced death. In fact, Lance shared his struggles and coming victory via his “Lance’s 411” Facebook page. The following was one of Lance’s last posts before being taken home to Glory (what a legacy):
"Challenge. Adversity. Calm. Here's the deal, the Lord surrounds us with opportunity. What seems, based on your perspective, is a confrontation. What the "confrontation" turns out to be is your road to peace.
I have spent much of my spiritual life in conflict, constantly engaged in battle. This has been through my short sightedness and inability to trust the entire picture. I have a submission issue. Jesus provided me the guidance, with the right people, at the right time to make the next critical step last night.
I do truly believe this is the beginning. I had a few things holding me back from letting it happen. They were big things, but now do not exist. I am blessed to have been shown this awesome power.
I have started the journey through Hospice. The cancer entered my leg bones 2 days ago. In the past, treatments hoped to be opportunities failed to materialize. I will focus my new energy where it can be used in a positive light. Mission understood!
I thank the Lord and my personal "team" for sharing this intense message for the past 48 hours of my life. My heart is healed, my vision is clear, and I look forward to the days ahead.
Peace to you all. I needed to capture tonight as the turning point. My true acceptance that now is the beginning of forever. Amen? Amen!"
Outstanding! I’m really looking forward to seeing Lance when my own time comes and to see how many others have come to Christ because of Lance’s example and courage. Meanwhile, let’s keep Lance’s family in prayer!
MESSAGE RECAP -- “Warriors Standing in the Gap” (aka “Standing Watch”)
Last week’s message on warriors (cops) “standing in the gap” was again well-attended by our local FCPO-Denver chapter regulars and visitors. Here’s the RECAP for all our readers/followers who reside elsewhere around the world:
With an eye on the prophetically historic events unfolding around us, I was strongly led to send out a reminder that we are “at war” with evil in general and in combating those who would otherwise create anarchy through lawlessness and sin. Accordingly, we must be ever-ready both personally in our relationship with Christ (being right with God) and in our attention to our warrior skills (physical and mental readiness). We in law enforcement are in fact called by God to “stand in the gap” to protect and lead our nation, communities and families against the hosts of the enemy (Satan).
In keeping with this thoroughly biblical theme, God’s inerrant word repeatedly uses the concept of “watchmen” standing guard on a wall. Biblically speaking, watchmen were those officers assigned to STAND a post on a city’s walls to watch and sound the alarm if the enemy approached. In fact, watchmen were under penalty of death if they failed to carry out their sworn duty.
Jack Nicholson character of Col. Jessup in the film A Few Good Men provides a famous modern-day analogy: “Son, we live in a world that has walls, and those walls have to be guarded by men with guns. Whose gonna do it? You? You, Lt. Weinburg?...You weep for Santiago, and you curse the Marines. You have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know. That Santiago's death, while tragic, probably saved lives. And that my existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, saves lives. Deep down in places you don’t talk about at parties, you want me on that wall, you need me on that wall. We use words like honor, code, loyalty. We use these words as the backbone of a life spent defending something. You use them as a punch line. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to a man who rises and sleeps under the blanket of the very freedom I provide, then questions the manner in which I provide it. I prefer you said ‘thank you’ and went on your way, Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a weapon, and stand a post...”
Oohrah! Note however that Jessup was more wolf than sheepdog!
The prophet Ezekiel, another one of God’s “cops” (review last week’s teaching) knew and understood the importance of watchmen standing guard on a wall and lived in a time that had many parallels to what is happening in the world today (and the United States in particular). Ezekiel 3:16-21 (New Living Translation) reads, 16 After seven days the Lord gave me a message. He said, 17 “Son of man, I have appointed you as a watchman for Israel. Whenever you receive a message from me, warn people immediately. 18 If I warn the wicked, saying, ‘You are under the penalty of death,’ but you fail to deliver the warning, they will die in their sins. And I will hold you responsible for their deaths. 19 If you warn them and they refuse to repent and keep on sinning, they will die in their sins. But you will have saved yourself because you obeyed me. 20 “If righteous people turn away from their righteous behavior and ignore the obstacles I put in their way, they will die. And if you do not warn them, they will die in their sins. None of their righteous acts will be remembered, and I will hold you responsible for their deaths. 21 But if you warn righteous people not to sin and they listen to you and do not sin, they will live, and you will have saved yourself, too.
The prophet Isaiah also wrote of this concept. Isaiah 62:6 says, On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have appointed watchmen; all day and all night they will never keep silent, you who remind the LORD, take no rest for yourselves…(refers to being always praying and expecting the Lord’s return).
The apostle Paul saw himself as a watchman, someone who would be positioned on a city wall to stand and watch for the enemy. Quoting Ezekiel, Paul tells the elders in Acts 20:26-28 (NLT), 26 Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of all men. 27 For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God. 28 Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock (those we serve and protect) of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers.[a] Be shepherds of the church of God (God’s people),[b] which He bought with his own blood.
Not unlike what we do as cops and soldiers (sheepdogs), declaring the truth of God’s word is literally a matter of life and death. When we meet someone who is lost or doesn’t know the Lord, we have a God-given responsibility as “watchmen” to tell them the truth. If we know a believer who is/has gone astray, we have a duty as watchmen to warn them – not out of hate or spite but rather out of love – in order to shield and protect them.
In ancient days, cities were often placed under siege and weapons were used to batter or pull down their walls so as to allow the enemy to breach them. The watchmen and other defenders would then be called on to stand in the breach – the GAP – to defend the city. Our Lord expounds on this concept of standing in the gap in Ezekiel 22:29-30. 29 The people of the land have used oppressions, committed robbery, and mistreated the poor and needy; and they wrongfully oppress the stranger. 30 So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one. Ezekiel 13:5 says, You have not gone up to the breaks in the wall to repair it for the house of Israel so that it will stand firm in the battle on the day of the LORD.
God is looking for men willing to build back, build up, restore, protect, renew and revive. And not just as Christian cops in the LOD. No, God is looking for men who know how to build up the self-esteem of their wives. God is looking for men who will make the sacrifices necessary to build up the faith of their family. God is looking for men to guide, encourage and discipline their children. God is looking for men who will be true servant-leaders and not pass on the tasks of ministry and leadership to their wives, but who will rather read them God’s word, teach a class, sweep a floor, visit a sick colleague at the hospital, and generally be the sold-out, “all-in” men of God He is calling us to be!
Note also that being a watchman and standing in the gap refers to intercessory prayer
** For our families
** Our friends
** Our profession and those who serve in it
** Our leaders
** Our country…
When was the last time you looked at the prayer requests on our website and then prayed?
Finally, we looked at the concept of what it means to STAND on that proverbial wall. Luke 21:36 (NIV) says, Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man. 1 Cor 10:12-13 (NIV) tells us, So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
Ephesians 6:10-18 uses the word “stand” 5 times (or more depending on the version). 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted (refers to the nails in a Roman soldier’s boots that allowed them to STAND firm in a shield wall) with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
We MUST daily put on both the whole armor of God along with our physical body armor so that we can watch, stand in the gap and finish strong in Christ!
To conclude, I shared another quote from A Few Good Men. When asked why she liked the Marines so much, the character of Galloway replied, “Because they stand upon a wall and say, "Nothing's going to hurt you tonight, not on my watch." Folks, what we need today are men and women willing stand on in a gap in the wall to watch, defend, and pray for those in our care. That’s our CALL – now (as my fellow Scots say) TO IT!
In the days of Michael Jordan we often heard the phrase "...be like Mike." This week’s I will be teaching on our call (command) to regularly grow stronger in our walk and relationship with Christ -- to be "more like Christ" through a process called sanctification. Please join us if you’re in the Denver-metro area but, if you’re not, you can be assured that I’ll have a detailed recap for you in next week’s newsletter – stay tuned!
FCPO-DENVER (“Locals”) NEWS:
For those who are reading this throughout the Denver-metro area, we are now “solid” for our once-monthly foray into the “mission field” (plains) of Aurora. No, we’re not leaving Calvary South Denver as our home base. Rather, we’ve simply partnered with Pastor Ed Taylor and our friends at Calvary Aurora were we’ll meet every third Thursday of the month in an effort to reach those officers who might not otherwise make the trek to the south metro area. First meeting there is February 17th at 7:00 PM in Room #138. See the following and forthcoimg posts here on website for more details and help us “spread the word.”
LISTEN TO RECENT TEACHING!
Some have asked how they can listen to my recent profession-relevant teaching at Calvary South Denver’s Tuesday Night Dialogue service (regularly attended by a number of our local officers who also attend our Thursday night “Cop Church” services) that mirrored my “Code 3 – A Sense of Urgency” study (see the RECAP in my January 12th post). A link to that teaching has been established on the Calvary South Denver website (www.calvarycsd.org). Just click on
https://public.me.com/sampark777, click on “TND Messages,” “Guest Speakers,” and the message beginning with “01.11.11…Urgency…” You can then download it to your computer or MP3 player. I hope you’ll find it helpful, informative and challenging.
TRAINING SEGMENT
If you’ve not had a chance to see the raw footage from the Detroit PD precinct shooting, take a look at this (lots to think about in terms of tactics not to mention seeing who did and didn’t show true warrior courage). Go to http://www.freep.com/videonetwork/767998473001/Detroit-police-video-of-precinct-shoot-out.
That’s it for this week folks. Check the website frequently for the latest prayer requests and local meeting schedule updates. In the meantime, let’s ask the Lord to help us stand strong in the gap for our families, colleagues and all those God as called us to serve and protect. Be safe!
Monday, January 3, 2011
A "Code 3" Sense of Urgency
Fellow Servant-Warriors:
My heart is heavy tonight as we have started off 2011 along the same sad lines that we ended 2010 with. As many are aware, a fellow officer was shot and killed while investigating -- alone no less -- a shots fired call when the perp took her out with a shotgun. The suspect managed to wound another officer before dying in a hail of rightous gunfire (see http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/148698-hell-broke-loose-in-gunfight-that-took-deputys-life). Just tonight here in Colorado a Northglenn officer was shot serving a warrant on a sex offender. At last report the officer is doing well, thank God (took rounds to the vest and arm) and the perpetrator reportedly took his own life before SWAT entered the residence. See http://www.9news.com/news/article.aspx?storyid=173404&catid=339.
Like our slain Ohio sister, we put on a badge, armor and weapon each day and hopefully seek God grace, protection and leading as we go out and stand in the gap (Ezek. 22:30) for those we serve and protect. Duty issues aside, there are thousands of our fellow servant-warriors who are also dealing with battle wounds, disease, family issues (see below), personal problems, and so much more. Bottom line remains the same: we MUST ALL come to Christ the same way. There is no "get out of hell pass" for those serving in law enforcement and we need to have a true "Code 3" sense of URGENCY about sharing the TRUTH of the Gospel with our brothers and sisters in "blue" (and of course being fully right with God ourselves). The horrendous but just consequence of a fellow officer dying without saying "yes" to Christ should be seen as untenable to all of us as there are NO SECOND CHANCES once this life ends. Stay tuned for more on this subject...!
There is no recap this week due to our weather-related cancellation this past Thursday. That said we are in fact "on" for this week and I'll post my usual recap in next week's newsletter. As an alternative, I encourage you to take the time to listen to the recorded Centurion Radio show I did last Friday with Tulsa PD Captain and Ten-Four Ministries Director Travis Yates. We talked about what true biblical servant-leadership should look like in our profession and had a very sobering discussion about the very topic I hit on above. Go to my New Year's Eve post and click on the link. I also strong encourage everyone to check out the many resources available at http://www.tenfourministries.org/. There you can sign-up for Travis's outstanding weekly e-newsletter and, for that officer who has yet to make a decision for Christ, click on the "Know God" button.
The Grace Card (a cop's movie) hits theaters on February 25th and I'm encouraging everyone to pray and promote the film (and of course go see it). I have a link on our website or just go to
http://www.thegracecardmovie.com/.
URGENT PRAYER REQUEST: One of our own and his family are in need of your ongoing prayer support. This officer's teen daughter is currently in a hospital dealing with a host of issues in what has been nothing short of a nightmare for all concerned. I don't want to give out any more details in this venue but God knows the need -- just PRAY!
Speaking of prayer requests, the latest have been posted here on our website (see the updated Dec. 26th post). Please check back frequently.
Denver-area (FCPO-Denver) NEWS:
(1) We're meeting as scheduled this coming Thursday, January 6th starting at 7 PM at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. Last week's newsletter and my Dec. 27th post provide the details -- please plan on joining us (spouses are welcome and encouraged to attend). We'll also talk about where this ministry has been, the vision for where God will take us in 2011, along with a great time of corporate prayer and cop fellowship.
(2) Our inaugural Centurion LE Ministry BAPTISM service is set for Saturday, January 15th and I'll be teaching on this subject at our January 13th meeting. If you are have accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior but have yet to be baptised (no, infant baptism doesn't cover it) and would like to take part in this blessed act of obedience to our Lord, please shoot me an email and plan on attending our January 13th meeting.
(3) Cops and Samson! As previously announced, we're participating in a special Tuesday Night Dialogue service at Calvary South Denver in Littleton on the very profession-relevant topic of Samson and Delilah from Judges 16. Please join us (bring your spouse and kids -- child care provided)! Starts at 7 PM in the main sanctuary. Pastor Sam Park's teaching on this subject is very much "a cop's story" -- perhaps even YOUR story.
That's it for this week's newsletter. "Stay frosty" and "Oscar Mike" with Christ as our Captain. Blessings, my fellow sheepdogs!
My heart is heavy tonight as we have started off 2011 along the same sad lines that we ended 2010 with. As many are aware, a fellow officer was shot and killed while investigating -- alone no less -- a shots fired call when the perp took her out with a shotgun. The suspect managed to wound another officer before dying in a hail of rightous gunfire (see http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/148698-hell-broke-loose-in-gunfight-that-took-deputys-life). Just tonight here in Colorado a Northglenn officer was shot serving a warrant on a sex offender. At last report the officer is doing well, thank God (took rounds to the vest and arm) and the perpetrator reportedly took his own life before SWAT entered the residence. See http://www.9news.com/news/article.aspx?storyid=173404&catid=339.
Like our slain Ohio sister, we put on a badge, armor and weapon each day and hopefully seek God grace, protection and leading as we go out and stand in the gap (Ezek. 22:30) for those we serve and protect. Duty issues aside, there are thousands of our fellow servant-warriors who are also dealing with battle wounds, disease, family issues (see below), personal problems, and so much more. Bottom line remains the same: we MUST ALL come to Christ the same way. There is no "get out of hell pass" for those serving in law enforcement and we need to have a true "Code 3" sense of URGENCY about sharing the TRUTH of the Gospel with our brothers and sisters in "blue" (and of course being fully right with God ourselves). The horrendous but just consequence of a fellow officer dying without saying "yes" to Christ should be seen as untenable to all of us as there are NO SECOND CHANCES once this life ends. Stay tuned for more on this subject...!
There is no recap this week due to our weather-related cancellation this past Thursday. That said we are in fact "on" for this week and I'll post my usual recap in next week's newsletter. As an alternative, I encourage you to take the time to listen to the recorded Centurion Radio show I did last Friday with Tulsa PD Captain and Ten-Four Ministries Director Travis Yates. We talked about what true biblical servant-leadership should look like in our profession and had a very sobering discussion about the very topic I hit on above. Go to my New Year's Eve post and click on the link. I also strong encourage everyone to check out the many resources available at http://www.tenfourministries.org/. There you can sign-up for Travis's outstanding weekly e-newsletter and, for that officer who has yet to make a decision for Christ, click on the "Know God" button.
The Grace Card (a cop's movie) hits theaters on February 25th and I'm encouraging everyone to pray and promote the film (and of course go see it). I have a link on our website or just go to
http://www.thegracecardmovie.com/.
URGENT PRAYER REQUEST: One of our own and his family are in need of your ongoing prayer support. This officer's teen daughter is currently in a hospital dealing with a host of issues in what has been nothing short of a nightmare for all concerned. I don't want to give out any more details in this venue but God knows the need -- just PRAY!
Speaking of prayer requests, the latest have been posted here on our website (see the updated Dec. 26th post). Please check back frequently.
Denver-area (FCPO-Denver) NEWS:
(1) We're meeting as scheduled this coming Thursday, January 6th starting at 7 PM at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. Last week's newsletter and my Dec. 27th post provide the details -- please plan on joining us (spouses are welcome and encouraged to attend). We'll also talk about where this ministry has been, the vision for where God will take us in 2011, along with a great time of corporate prayer and cop fellowship.
(2) Our inaugural Centurion LE Ministry BAPTISM service is set for Saturday, January 15th and I'll be teaching on this subject at our January 13th meeting. If you are have accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior but have yet to be baptised (no, infant baptism doesn't cover it) and would like to take part in this blessed act of obedience to our Lord, please shoot me an email and plan on attending our January 13th meeting.
(3) Cops and Samson! As previously announced, we're participating in a special Tuesday Night Dialogue service at Calvary South Denver in Littleton on the very profession-relevant topic of Samson and Delilah from Judges 16. Please join us (bring your spouse and kids -- child care provided)! Starts at 7 PM in the main sanctuary. Pastor Sam Park's teaching on this subject is very much "a cop's story" -- perhaps even YOUR story.
That's it for this week's newsletter. "Stay frosty" and "Oscar Mike" with Christ as our Captain. Blessings, my fellow sheepdogs!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Happy New Year and Meeting Cancellation Notice!
First, let me use this opportunity to send out a big ole' Happy New Year from Diana and I to all those on our email list and our website followers in general. I'm both stoked and in prayer about where and how God will use this ministry in 2011. Many of us will be working so let's utilize an use an extra ounce of the unique "cop sense" God has given us and be sure you go to our Lord in prayer during your shifts. Also remember to check back here (website) frequently for the latest prayer requests and announcements.
MESSAGE FOR OUR FCPO-DENVER LOCALS:
Well folks, after prayer, watching the weather forecast (current blizzard conditions), advice from my better half and using my much-honed investigation skills (LOL) , I'm cancelling our meeting tonight due to adverse weather conditions. Interstate was slow but not too bad -- yet. However side streets are slick as snot and I'm not going to put folks at risk by having them come out in this.
Soooo -- meeting cancelled for tonight. I'm willing to reschedule to meet on Sat AM for those who need some corporate prayer time -- let me know if that is a must and I'll make it happen. If not, I hope you will consider joining us next Tuesday at Calvary South Denver's Tuesday Night Dialogue -- "TND" -- where Pastor Sam Park will be teaching an in-depth study on Samson and Delilah from Judges 16. Most of you should remember my overview on this subject and the fact that this is very much a cop-relevant topic. A number of us (Centurion Ministry/FCPO-Denver) already attend TND -- I serve there weekly -- and our own Matt Wallenburg is regularly part of the worship team. Please join us. If not, we'll see you next Thursday!
You'll also probably get a text if you read and responded to my email last night. Those who still show up tonight will be out-of-luck (good lesson on actually reading the emails -- LOL).
UPDATED FCPO-Denver MEETING SCHEDULE and ANNOUNCEMENTS:
MESSAGE FOR OUR FCPO-DENVER LOCALS:
Well folks, after prayer, watching the weather forecast (current blizzard conditions), advice from my better half and using my much-honed investigation skills (LOL) , I'm cancelling our meeting tonight due to adverse weather conditions. Interstate was slow but not too bad -- yet. However side streets are slick as snot and I'm not going to put folks at risk by having them come out in this.
Soooo -- meeting cancelled for tonight. I'm willing to reschedule to meet on Sat AM for those who need some corporate prayer time -- let me know if that is a must and I'll make it happen. If not, I hope you will consider joining us next Tuesday at Calvary South Denver's Tuesday Night Dialogue -- "TND" -- where Pastor Sam Park will be teaching an in-depth study on Samson and Delilah from Judges 16. Most of you should remember my overview on this subject and the fact that this is very much a cop-relevant topic. A number of us (Centurion Ministry/FCPO-Denver) already attend TND -- I serve there weekly -- and our own Matt Wallenburg is regularly part of the worship team. Please join us. If not, we'll see you next Thursday!
You'll also probably get a text if you read and responded to my email last night. Those who still show up tonight will be out-of-luck (good lesson on actually reading the emails -- LOL).
UPDATED FCPO-Denver MEETING SCHEDULE and ANNOUNCEMENTS:
-- Thu, Dec. 30th: CANCELLED!
-- TCLEM on the Radio! 12 Noon CST (11 AM Mountain). Go to http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ten-four-ministries/2010/12/31/centurion-radio-14-servant-leadership for a preview and to learn how you can take part. Listeners can also check out previous programs by going to http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ten-four-ministries. See previous (12/29) post for further.
-- Tuesday, January 4th, 2011: We're participating in the special TND Service at Calvary South Denver in Littleton on the very profession-relevant topic of Samson and Delilah from Judges 16. Please join us (bring your spouse and kids -- child care provided)! Starts at 7 PM in the main sanctuary.
-- Thursday, January 6th, 2011: Regular "cop church" fellowship, prayer and Bible study meeting. 1900 hours, Calvary South Denver in Littleton. Probably be in our "regular" High School Room.
-- Thursday, January 13th: Regular time/place as above. I'll be teaching a special message on baptism in preparation for our first-ever baptism service on Saturday, Jan. 15th.
-- Saturday, January 15th: Law Enforcement BAPTISM SERVICE at Southern Gables Church (4001 South Wadsworth Boulevard, Lakewood, CO 80123-1358 )
Check back frequently for the latest changes and updates!
Blessings!
Monday, October 18, 2010
A Matter of Pride (aka "A Cop's Pride")
Fellow Servant-Warriors:
We’re back on track for our next profession-relevant Bible study as I teach on a tough topic for many of us in law enforcement – PRIDE. Now clearly, I’m not talking about the kind of pride we have when our kids get an “A” or score a touchdown. Nor is this the kind of natural pride we SHOULD feel when we pin on our badge or see our flag waving proudly (I still salute even after all these years). On the contrary, the kind of pride that will play center-stage at this week’s profession-relevant study is a whole other animal. If you’re in the Denver-metro area this Thursday (October 21st), please consider joining us at Calvary South Denver in Littleton starting at 1900 hours in the High School Room. I will of course post a detailed recap in next week’s newsletter and here on our website for all of our nationally and international readers/followers – stay tuned! Don't forget that our local chapter meetings also typically include outstanding worship music courtesy of our own Matt Wallenburg, great fellowship, a time of corporate prayer and (of late) a plethora of goodies being brought by Louie Jaramillo (DPD). Please join us!
Reference our website, prayer requests and local meeting schedules are updated regulary -- please check back frequently and please forward your prayer requests to me for inclusion both here on the website, newsletters and as part of our weekly corporate prayer at our local FCPO chapter meetings.
Speaking of local “meetings” (ours is essentially a cop "service”), I want to again encourage local officers and their families to consider attending the Tuesday night services (entitled the Tuesday Night Dialogue or “TND” for short) being held at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. I serve at this fellowship and quite a few of our regulars have begun attending as well (the Sabbath can be ANY day of the week). Pastor Sam Park (a fellow warrior!) is currently teaching on the life of Samson in Judges 13-16 – a profession/life-relevant subject if there ever was one! We start at 7:00 PM and newcomers can eat for FREE on their first visit (we serve a great after-service meal that includes outstanding fellowship). Child care is provided and the worship music is awesome. Here’s a preview/review of Sam’s current teaching in Judges 13 (there will be free CDs for anyone who missed last week):
Sam writes, "Last week we looked at 3 of the 7 total points so we'll finish the rest tomorrow night. Here are the points in its entirety:
-- God often calls people from the most unlikely places
-- The Lord calls us personally
-- With calling comes direction
-- With calling comes confirmation
-- True calling requires sacrifice
-- True calling produces a heart to worship, a heart of awe and a heart of desperation
-- Those whom the Lord calls, He empowers."
Don’t forget to VOTE!!
The election is only days away and many of us have already submitted our mail-in ballots or gone to early voting. I can't tell you whom to VOTE for, but clearly our call is to vote biblically (biblical world-view). Let's also be II Chronicles 7:14 Christians both on our knees and at the polls. May God bless and keep and the United States of America and defend our fellow warriors fighting both abroad (military) and those of us serving domestically (law enforcement)!
LEOs for Him -- "Daily Armor for Peace Officers:"
Email leos4him@reachingcops.com to be included in a new daily email devotional just for us in law enforcement. I also have a link to their website here on ours. Interestingly enough, today’s email was on the very same subject I’m teaching on this Thursday, to wit, pride and humility.
TRAINING CORNER:
My friends and colleagues Capt. Travis Yates and Lt. Jim Glennon are outstanding instructors and I recommend their insightful articles found on http://www.policeone.com/. Jim’s articles can be found at http://www.policeone.com/columnists/jim-glennon/ and Travis’s at http://www.policeone.com/columnists/travis-yates/.
In addition, I continue to recommend that EVERY LEO attend Lt. Col. Dave Grossman’s presentations. Dave’s training schedule can be found at http://www.killology.com/ and click the “Calendar” button.
Please feel free to contact me at fullarmor911@yahoo.com if you need prayer, have a question, or just need to vent – I’m in your corner. Regardless, let’s stay strong in Christ!
We’re back on track for our next profession-relevant Bible study as I teach on a tough topic for many of us in law enforcement – PRIDE. Now clearly, I’m not talking about the kind of pride we have when our kids get an “A” or score a touchdown. Nor is this the kind of natural pride we SHOULD feel when we pin on our badge or see our flag waving proudly (I still salute even after all these years). On the contrary, the kind of pride that will play center-stage at this week’s profession-relevant study is a whole other animal. If you’re in the Denver-metro area this Thursday (October 21st), please consider joining us at Calvary South Denver in Littleton starting at 1900 hours in the High School Room. I will of course post a detailed recap in next week’s newsletter and here on our website for all of our nationally and international readers/followers – stay tuned! Don't forget that our local chapter meetings also typically include outstanding worship music courtesy of our own Matt Wallenburg, great fellowship, a time of corporate prayer and (of late) a plethora of goodies being brought by Louie Jaramillo (DPD). Please join us!
Reference our website, prayer requests and local meeting schedules are updated regulary -- please check back frequently and please forward your prayer requests to me for inclusion both here on the website, newsletters and as part of our weekly corporate prayer at our local FCPO chapter meetings.
Speaking of local “meetings” (ours is essentially a cop "service”), I want to again encourage local officers and their families to consider attending the Tuesday night services (entitled the Tuesday Night Dialogue or “TND” for short) being held at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. I serve at this fellowship and quite a few of our regulars have begun attending as well (the Sabbath can be ANY day of the week). Pastor Sam Park (a fellow warrior!) is currently teaching on the life of Samson in Judges 13-16 – a profession/life-relevant subject if there ever was one! We start at 7:00 PM and newcomers can eat for FREE on their first visit (we serve a great after-service meal that includes outstanding fellowship). Child care is provided and the worship music is awesome. Here’s a preview/review of Sam’s current teaching in Judges 13 (there will be free CDs for anyone who missed last week):
Sam writes, "Last week we looked at 3 of the 7 total points so we'll finish the rest tomorrow night. Here are the points in its entirety:
-- God often calls people from the most unlikely places
-- The Lord calls us personally
-- With calling comes direction
-- With calling comes confirmation
-- True calling requires sacrifice
-- True calling produces a heart to worship, a heart of awe and a heart of desperation
-- Those whom the Lord calls, He empowers."
Don’t forget to VOTE!!
The election is only days away and many of us have already submitted our mail-in ballots or gone to early voting. I can't tell you whom to VOTE for, but clearly our call is to vote biblically (biblical world-view). Let's also be II Chronicles 7:14 Christians both on our knees and at the polls. May God bless and keep and the United States of America and defend our fellow warriors fighting both abroad (military) and those of us serving domestically (law enforcement)!
LEOs for Him -- "Daily Armor for Peace Officers:"
Email leos4him@reachingcops.com to be included in a new daily email devotional just for us in law enforcement. I also have a link to their website here on ours. Interestingly enough, today’s email was on the very same subject I’m teaching on this Thursday, to wit, pride and humility.
TRAINING CORNER:
My friends and colleagues Capt. Travis Yates and Lt. Jim Glennon are outstanding instructors and I recommend their insightful articles found on http://www.policeone.com/. Jim’s articles can be found at http://www.policeone.com/columnists/jim-glennon/ and Travis’s at http://www.policeone.com/columnists/travis-yates/.
In addition, I continue to recommend that EVERY LEO attend Lt. Col. Dave Grossman’s presentations. Dave’s training schedule can be found at http://www.killology.com/ and click the “Calendar” button.
Please feel free to contact me at fullarmor911@yahoo.com if you need prayer, have a question, or just need to vent – I’m in your corner. Regardless, let’s stay strong in Christ!
Monday, October 11, 2010
New Prayer Requests and Updated Meeting Schedule
UPDATED (10/13) PRAYER REQUESTS -- check back frequently as these are regularly updated...and feel free email me your requests at fullarmor911@yahoo.com:
-- An officer in MN had surgery last Tuesday to deal with a tumor. Please pray that it is benign and that initial surgery will be successful (healing, courage, protection, grace and God's perfect will).
-- Mickey Koerner in Utah sent the following:
I don't know if you remember or not, but a UVU student was sexually assaulted, beaten, and left for dead in July 2010 on the Provo trail inside Provo city limits. She survived, but her face and jaw were so badly beaten she couldn't and still can't talk. She used sign language to communicate with the police and they found her attacker.
UVU is having a fund raiser for her next week and I am NOT ASKING YOU FOR MONEY, but prayer. She is in need of 2-3 more surgeries to restore her face/jaw and also the emotional healing is going to be a battle.
One other thing I'd like you to pray for is safety on this trail. Last week we had another lady attacked.
Our area is in desperate need of the REAL Jesus.
-- From fellows FCPO Board member Paul Lee in TN:
Dear Saints,
Another good report on little Elizabeth Jetton. Please continue to pray and click on the link to take a look at this beautiful child with the big smile. Don't forget to also sign Elizabeth's guest book (see below) to let Officer Jetton and Matt know we are still praying and thankful for this good report.
Also keep Chattanooga PD Capt. David Woolsey in your prayers. His father is very ill in the Philippians. David is there now with his father. His parents are missionaries and have devoted their lives in that part of the world.
God bless,
Paul
www.fcpo.org
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethjetton
WOUNDED OFFICER UPDATE!
-- Carbon County (WY) Lt. Kyle Rosentreter is continuing to rehab and growing stronger.
-- Polk County (WI) Dep. Mike Severson is improving as well -- very tough cookie!
In addition, I spoke with retired Las Vegas PD Officer Bob Pierce whose son Jake is rehabing from a MVA.
As previously announced, Denver PD Det. Danny Veith recently donated a kidney to a fellow officer and mentioned his faith in the following article: http://www.9news.com/news/health/article.aspx?storyid=156964&catid=180. I saw Danny last week while assisting Lt. Col. Dave Grossman at his latest Denver-area Bulletproof Mind presentation (packed house of offices). Please keep Danny and his colleague in your prayers for a full recovery.
Please keep our wounded brothers in prayer...they have tough roads ahead and need all the support they can get. Please join us in visiting as well!
Local MEETING SCHEDULE Update:
-- Thursday, October 14th: NO MEETING! If you're one of our regulars or just a Denver-metro local or visitor, please consider attending the unique Tuesday (10/12) night service(s) starting at 7:00 PM at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. Pastor Sam Park will begin an in-depth look at the life of Samson as detailed in chapters 13-16 in the Book of Judges. Most will remember my recent overview on Samson and Sam's teaching will go much deeper on a character that has direct application to us in law enforcement (and Christians in general). Bring your spouse/family (child care is provided) for great worship music, outstanding teaching, communion, and a great time of prayer and fellowship. The Tuesday night service -- aka the Tuesday Night Dialogue ("dialogue" being with God), is very much akin to what we believe the original Acts church was like! Quite a few of our Centurion Ministry regulars also attend on Tuesday nights -- very
"cop friendly" and I serve there as well. Please join us.
-- Thursday, October 21st: 7:00 PM, Calvery South Denver (http://www.calvarycsd.org/ for directions), Littleton. We meet in the High School Room -- all the way down the hall past the main sanctuary. I'll be teaching a very profession-relevant message on pride.
-- Saturday, October 23rd: Fall Potluck at our place in Highlands Ranch. Email me or come to the Oct. 21st meeting for address and details. Remember to RSVP if you plan on coming.
-- Thursday, October 28th: Same time/place as Oct. 21st above.
-- An officer in MN had surgery last Tuesday to deal with a tumor. Please pray that it is benign and that initial surgery will be successful (healing, courage, protection, grace and God's perfect will).
-- Mickey Koerner in Utah sent the following:
I don't know if you remember or not, but a UVU student was sexually assaulted, beaten, and left for dead in July 2010 on the Provo trail inside Provo city limits. She survived, but her face and jaw were so badly beaten she couldn't and still can't talk. She used sign language to communicate with the police and they found her attacker.
UVU is having a fund raiser for her next week and I am NOT ASKING YOU FOR MONEY, but prayer. She is in need of 2-3 more surgeries to restore her face/jaw and also the emotional healing is going to be a battle.
One other thing I'd like you to pray for is safety on this trail. Last week we had another lady attacked.
Our area is in desperate need of the REAL Jesus.
-- From fellows FCPO Board member Paul Lee in TN:
Dear Saints,
Another good report on little Elizabeth Jetton. Please continue to pray and click on the link to take a look at this beautiful child with the big smile. Don't forget to also sign Elizabeth's guest book (see below) to let Officer Jetton and Matt know we are still praying and thankful for this good report.
Also keep Chattanooga PD Capt. David Woolsey in your prayers. His father is very ill in the Philippians. David is there now with his father. His parents are missionaries and have devoted their lives in that part of the world.
God bless,
Paul
www.fcpo.org
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethjetton
WOUNDED OFFICER UPDATE!
I again visited our wounded brothers at Craig Hospital this weekend where I found one of regulars doing the same (Thanks Todd!).
-- Mineral County (CO) Dep. Scott Warrington has been discharged to go home to Creede where he will continue his rehab.-- Carbon County (WY) Lt. Kyle Rosentreter is continuing to rehab and growing stronger.
-- Polk County (WI) Dep. Mike Severson is improving as well -- very tough cookie!
In addition, I spoke with retired Las Vegas PD Officer Bob Pierce whose son Jake is rehabing from a MVA.
As previously announced, Denver PD Det. Danny Veith recently donated a kidney to a fellow officer and mentioned his faith in the following article: http://www.9news.com/news/health/article.aspx?storyid=156964&catid=180. I saw Danny last week while assisting Lt. Col. Dave Grossman at his latest Denver-area Bulletproof Mind presentation (packed house of offices). Please keep Danny and his colleague in your prayers for a full recovery.
Please keep our wounded brothers in prayer...they have tough roads ahead and need all the support they can get. Please join us in visiting as well!
Local MEETING SCHEDULE Update:
-- Thursday, October 14th: NO MEETING! If you're one of our regulars or just a Denver-metro local or visitor, please consider attending the unique Tuesday (10/12) night service(s) starting at 7:00 PM at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. Pastor Sam Park will begin an in-depth look at the life of Samson as detailed in chapters 13-16 in the Book of Judges. Most will remember my recent overview on Samson and Sam's teaching will go much deeper on a character that has direct application to us in law enforcement (and Christians in general). Bring your spouse/family (child care is provided) for great worship music, outstanding teaching, communion, and a great time of prayer and fellowship. The Tuesday night service -- aka the Tuesday Night Dialogue ("dialogue" being with God), is very much akin to what we believe the original Acts church was like! Quite a few of our Centurion Ministry regulars also attend on Tuesday nights -- very
"cop friendly" and I serve there as well. Please join us.
-- Thursday, October 21st: 7:00 PM, Calvery South Denver (http://www.calvarycsd.org/ for directions), Littleton. We meet in the High School Room -- all the way down the hall past the main sanctuary. I'll be teaching a very profession-relevant message on pride.
-- Saturday, October 23rd: Fall Potluck at our place in Highlands Ranch. Email me or come to the Oct. 21st meeting for address and details. Remember to RSVP if you plan on coming.
-- Thursday, October 28th: Same time/place as Oct. 21st above.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
More Prayer Requests (Updated)
Updated (070810) PRAYER REQUESTS (see previous posts for additional):
-- Retired CPD Lt. Chuck Urgo -- a fellow FCPO national board member, sent the following: Chicago lost a fine officer yesterday. From all accounts he was not only a fine officer but a compassionate man who volunteered his time to help a blind neighbor. He was a husband, military veteran, athlete and had served the city for 11 years. Our prayers go out to his family, friends and fellow officers. I don't know where he stood with the Lord. My hope and prayer is that he had an active faith in Jesus. I would encourage every cop that has a relationship with the Lord to pray for your fellow officers, live a life worth of Christ and share your faith boldly. Be that "light in a dark place" pointing others to Jesus. You'll never know which of your co-workers may not make it to the next roll call.
http://www.suntimes.com/news/24-7/2475692,chicago-cop-shooting-070611.article
Police Officer Thor Soderberg
Chicago Police Department
End of Watch: Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Age: 43
Tour of Duty: 10 years, 11 months
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Weapon Used: Officer's handgun
Suspect Info: Shot/wounded and taken into custody.
Let's all be in prayer for Thor's family and colleagues.
-- As many of you know, former BART Officer Johannes Mehserle is currently on trial in CA. It is pretty clear to any trained officer that Johannes thought he was using a Taser and not a firearm. Please ask God to see that justice is done (this was NOT murder), that He will protect our brother/sister officers, and that cooler heads will prevail (reference the expected riots). Pray for Johannes as well. Fellow investigator Chris Orsini sent me the following: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=128375779&ft=1&f=1003.
-- A Chief writes, “On Saturday (07/03/10) morning Paul, the best man at my daughter’s wedding, was in a horrible traffic accident on his way to work. As a result of the accident he is paralyzed from the waist down, has a broken femur, shattered shoulder, 200 stitches in his face, broken ribs and a punctured lung. He had spinal surgery yesterday and has a second scheduled for next week. An off-duty cop and paramedic who were close and witnessed the accident saved his life. Please keep him in your prayers.”
-- Pray for a fellow investigator currently serving in Afghanistan with his Reserve unit (safety and that he will follow "hard after" our Lord).
-- Please pray for Illinois officer who is going through a proverbial “hell on earth” situation in relation to a use-of-force incident. Lots more to Jim’s situation than what is being played out in the media. We seek God’s intervention, truth, biblical leadership and of course that Jim would accept Christ as his Lord and Savior. Pray also for Jim’s sergeant (Dino) who is displaying outstanding courage and leadership in coming alongside our brother.
-- We continue to visit with Brownstown (MI) PD Officer Max Faistenhammer who is currently paralyzed and undergoing rehab here at Craig Hospital. Pray that our brother comes to Christ and that our Lord would grant Max healing in accordance with His perfect will. Whilst we’re at it, please continue to pray for Mahnomen County (MN) Dep. Chris Dewey and Chicago PD Ofc. Densey Cole.
-- Jason Pearson (Englewood PD) writes, "Mike Sorenson was re-admitted to Craig Hospital yesterday. Mike was shot in the line of duty some years ago and has returned due to complications from that shooting. Mike is in room #301, however he has limited visitation due to the seriousness of his new condition. Mike cannot talk out loud due to the recent complications that he suffered, but can lip words. Visits are limited to 5 minutes and please check in at the 3 West nurses station. Mike is from Wisconsin, I met him in February when he was at Craig for a re-evaluation. He is a great guy and does amazing things. " Let's keep Mike in prayer.
-- Pray for a young officer who is going through a divorce (restoration, repentance and biblical obedience, etc.). They have only been married a short time and his wife, supposedly a believer, left for other than biblical reasons (aka "sin").
-- Please keep the Chief and staff of the Grand Junction PD in your prayers (godly servant-leadership and more).
-- Pray for a colleague who is hurting and fighting for his marriage – part of which includes praying that his wife will come out of rebellion and back to the Lord. Our brother is also seeking God’s direction and will in terms of his career path and ministry.
-- Retired CPD Lt. Chuck Urgo -- a fellow FCPO national board member, sent the following: Chicago lost a fine officer yesterday. From all accounts he was not only a fine officer but a compassionate man who volunteered his time to help a blind neighbor. He was a husband, military veteran, athlete and had served the city for 11 years. Our prayers go out to his family, friends and fellow officers. I don't know where he stood with the Lord. My hope and prayer is that he had an active faith in Jesus. I would encourage every cop that has a relationship with the Lord to pray for your fellow officers, live a life worth of Christ and share your faith boldly. Be that "light in a dark place" pointing others to Jesus. You'll never know which of your co-workers may not make it to the next roll call.
http://www.suntimes.com/news/24-7/2475692,chicago-cop-shooting-070611.article
Police Officer Thor Soderberg
Chicago Police Department
End of Watch: Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Age: 43
Tour of Duty: 10 years, 11 months
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Weapon Used: Officer's handgun
Suspect Info: Shot/wounded and taken into custody.
Let's all be in prayer for Thor's family and colleagues.
-- As many of you know, former BART Officer Johannes Mehserle is currently on trial in CA. It is pretty clear to any trained officer that Johannes thought he was using a Taser and not a firearm. Please ask God to see that justice is done (this was NOT murder), that He will protect our brother/sister officers, and that cooler heads will prevail (reference the expected riots). Pray for Johannes as well. Fellow investigator Chris Orsini sent me the following: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=128375779&ft=1&f=1003.
-- A Chief writes, “On Saturday (07/03/10) morning Paul, the best man at my daughter’s wedding, was in a horrible traffic accident on his way to work. As a result of the accident he is paralyzed from the waist down, has a broken femur, shattered shoulder, 200 stitches in his face, broken ribs and a punctured lung. He had spinal surgery yesterday and has a second scheduled for next week. An off-duty cop and paramedic who were close and witnessed the accident saved his life. Please keep him in your prayers.”
-- Pray for a fellow investigator currently serving in Afghanistan with his Reserve unit (safety and that he will follow "hard after" our Lord).
-- Please pray for Illinois officer who is going through a proverbial “hell on earth” situation in relation to a use-of-force incident. Lots more to Jim’s situation than what is being played out in the media. We seek God’s intervention, truth, biblical leadership and of course that Jim would accept Christ as his Lord and Savior. Pray also for Jim’s sergeant (Dino) who is displaying outstanding courage and leadership in coming alongside our brother.
-- We continue to visit with Brownstown (MI) PD Officer Max Faistenhammer who is currently paralyzed and undergoing rehab here at Craig Hospital. Pray that our brother comes to Christ and that our Lord would grant Max healing in accordance with His perfect will. Whilst we’re at it, please continue to pray for Mahnomen County (MN) Dep. Chris Dewey and Chicago PD Ofc. Densey Cole.
-- Jason Pearson (Englewood PD) writes, "Mike Sorenson was re-admitted to Craig Hospital yesterday. Mike was shot in the line of duty some years ago and has returned due to complications from that shooting. Mike is in room #301, however he has limited visitation due to the seriousness of his new condition. Mike cannot talk out loud due to the recent complications that he suffered, but can lip words. Visits are limited to 5 minutes and please check in at the 3 West nurses station. Mike is from Wisconsin, I met him in February when he was at Craig for a re-evaluation. He is a great guy and does amazing things. " Let's keep Mike in prayer.
-- Pray for a young officer who is going through a divorce (restoration, repentance and biblical obedience, etc.). They have only been married a short time and his wife, supposedly a believer, left for other than biblical reasons (aka "sin").
-- Please keep the Chief and staff of the Grand Junction PD in your prayers (godly servant-leadership and more).
-- Pray for a colleague who is hurting and fighting for his marriage – part of which includes praying that his wife will come out of rebellion and back to the Lord. Our brother is also seeking God’s direction and will in terms of his career path and ministry.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Warriors Praying for our Nation: TCLEM Newsletter for the week of May 9th
Brothers & Sisters “of the Sword:”
Hope everyone took time out to spend time with (if close) and/or call our respective mothers on Mother’s Day. While I’m at it, “Love ya, Mom!”
Updated MEETING SCHEDULE:
-- Thursday, May 13, 2010 -- Calvary South Denver (www.calvarycsd.org for directions), 1900 hours, Room #6. Retired DPD officer, chaplain and pastor Manny Hays will be our guest speaker (see below for details).
-- Thursday, May 20, 2010 -- same time/place as noted above. Noted outlaw motorcycle gang (OMG) expert and veteran officer Jim Wattles (of History Channel’s Gangland fame) will be our guest speaker. Stay tuned for next week's newsletter for details!
-- Thursday, May 27, 2010 – same time/place as noted above. I hope to back in the game by then.
MESSAGE RECAP:
We had an outstanding time of fellowship, prayer and profession-relevant study of God’s word at last week’s TCLEM meeting. Inasmuch as last Thursday was the National Day of Prayer, the Holy Spirit led me to change my prepared message to one that centered on the subject intercessory prayer. My text came from both Daniel 9 and how it relates to the Lord’s appearance to Solomon in II Chronicles 6 and 7 (and 7:14 in particular). What we see in both passages are men who humbled themselves before the Lord on behalf of their people. God tells Solomon in verse 14 that “if My people, who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”
In brief, God is saying that if we will do three things --
(1) be humble (confess)
(2) pray (repent)
(3) turn (come back) to Him.
In turn, He will respond in three ways --
(2) hear
(3) forgive
(4) heal.
Likewise, in the 9th chapter of Daniel, we see a humble, obedient and righteous believer praying for his people (country). The entire chapter is a testimony to the fact that God DOES answer prayer in accordance with His perfect timing and will. That said, what is significant about Daniel and his prayer for the nation? Here are the main points:
(1) Daniel’s prayer was the result of his study of Scripture (he referred to Leviticus 26:40-45 and other passages).
(2) Like Solomon, Daniel confessed and repented of his people’s sins (see Lamentations 1:18).
(3) Daniel fasted and prayed for a period of time (see Matthew 17:21, for example).
James (James 5:16) tells us that “the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” Daniel’s prayer was just that – the effective and fervent prayer of a righteous (in our case, being made right with God through a life-changing, personal relationship with Jesus Christ) man. In fact, II Chronicles 9:23-25 and 36:22-23 clearly reveal that God answered Daniel’s prayer on behalf of his people!
The application for us as Christian officers is straightforward:
(1) Be righteous before our Lord through a right-relationship with His Son.
(2) Pray fervently for our nation, our agencies, our leaders, and those we serve and protect.
Billy Graham’s Prayer for the Nation provides a great conclusion for this important message as it relates to us today:
“Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask your forgiveness and to seek your direction and guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe to those who call evil good,' but that is exactly what we have done. We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values.. We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery.. We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare... We have killed our unborn and called it choice. We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable. We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building self-esteem.. We have abused power and called it politics... We have coveted our neighbor's possessions and called it ambition.. We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it freedom of expression. We have ridiculed the time-honoured values of our forefathers and called it enlightenment. Search us, Oh God, and know our hearts today; cleanse us from every sin and Set us free.. Amen!”
Are you prepared to pray for our country in the manner of Solomon and Daniel? As believers, God gives each of us the grace to be a modern day "Daniel" every day. Let’s get right and be in the fight -- and watch what God will do!
MESSAGE PREVIEW:
Pastor Manny Hays (retired Denver PD officer and current DPD chaplain) will be teaching in my stead this week while I’m recovering from surgery. Manny’s topic centers around the challenging and oft misunderstood subject of predestination as detailed in Romans 8:18-39. Did we choose our calling or were we called to our calling? Why did we and why do we endure this present evil? Join us Thursday for the answer!
NATIONAL POLICE WEEK is underway! Hopefully, at least a few of us are in DC adding some “salt and light” (Matthew 5:13-14) to NPW events. For more, see http://www.nationalpoliceweek.com/ for more.
CHRISTIAN OFFICERS IN THE NEWS!
Something positive in the Media for a change! Click on http://www.denverpost.com/news/ci_14972172.
TRAINING CORNER:
Denver PD Officer G.T. “Todd” Gentry (author of A Bulletproof Life – see http://www.amazon.com/Bulletproof-Life-G-T-Gentry/dp/1606478168) has posted his latest XFit video at http://www.xfit33ad.com/. Excellent profession-relevant strength and conditioning approach set to a powerful biblical backdrop. Learn and apply!
PRAYER REQUESTS:
I’ve updated the prayer requests right here on our website (see next post below). Please take the time to read the requests and join us in praying for those in need of God’s devine intervention (including me as I go in for surgery tomorrow).
In closing, let’s commit ourselves to fervent prayer, obedience and the study of God’s word as we respond to His calling on our lives to serve and protect.
Hope everyone took time out to spend time with (if close) and/or call our respective mothers on Mother’s Day. While I’m at it, “Love ya, Mom!”
Updated MEETING SCHEDULE:
-- Thursday, May 13, 2010 -- Calvary South Denver (www.calvarycsd.org for directions), 1900 hours, Room #6. Retired DPD officer, chaplain and pastor Manny Hays will be our guest speaker (see below for details).
-- Thursday, May 20, 2010 -- same time/place as noted above. Noted outlaw motorcycle gang (OMG) expert and veteran officer Jim Wattles (of History Channel’s Gangland fame) will be our guest speaker. Stay tuned for next week's newsletter for details!
-- Thursday, May 27, 2010 – same time/place as noted above. I hope to back in the game by then.
MESSAGE RECAP:
We had an outstanding time of fellowship, prayer and profession-relevant study of God’s word at last week’s TCLEM meeting. Inasmuch as last Thursday was the National Day of Prayer, the Holy Spirit led me to change my prepared message to one that centered on the subject intercessory prayer. My text came from both Daniel 9 and how it relates to the Lord’s appearance to Solomon in II Chronicles 6 and 7 (and 7:14 in particular). What we see in both passages are men who humbled themselves before the Lord on behalf of their people. God tells Solomon in verse 14 that “if My people, who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”
In brief, God is saying that if we will do three things --
(1) be humble (confess)
(2) pray (repent)
(3) turn (come back) to Him.
In turn, He will respond in three ways --
(2) hear
(3) forgive
(4) heal.
Likewise, in the 9th chapter of Daniel, we see a humble, obedient and righteous believer praying for his people (country). The entire chapter is a testimony to the fact that God DOES answer prayer in accordance with His perfect timing and will. That said, what is significant about Daniel and his prayer for the nation? Here are the main points:
(1) Daniel’s prayer was the result of his study of Scripture (he referred to Leviticus 26:40-45 and other passages).
(2) Like Solomon, Daniel confessed and repented of his people’s sins (see Lamentations 1:18).
(3) Daniel fasted and prayed for a period of time (see Matthew 17:21, for example).
James (James 5:16) tells us that “the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” Daniel’s prayer was just that – the effective and fervent prayer of a righteous (in our case, being made right with God through a life-changing, personal relationship with Jesus Christ) man. In fact, II Chronicles 9:23-25 and 36:22-23 clearly reveal that God answered Daniel’s prayer on behalf of his people!
The application for us as Christian officers is straightforward:
(1) Be righteous before our Lord through a right-relationship with His Son.
(2) Pray fervently for our nation, our agencies, our leaders, and those we serve and protect.
Billy Graham’s Prayer for the Nation provides a great conclusion for this important message as it relates to us today:
“Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask your forgiveness and to seek your direction and guidance. We know Your Word says, 'Woe to those who call evil good,' but that is exactly what we have done. We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values.. We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery.. We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare... We have killed our unborn and called it choice. We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable. We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building self-esteem.. We have abused power and called it politics... We have coveted our neighbor's possessions and called it ambition.. We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it freedom of expression. We have ridiculed the time-honoured values of our forefathers and called it enlightenment. Search us, Oh God, and know our hearts today; cleanse us from every sin and Set us free.. Amen!”
Are you prepared to pray for our country in the manner of Solomon and Daniel? As believers, God gives each of us the grace to be a modern day "Daniel" every day. Let’s get right and be in the fight -- and watch what God will do!
MESSAGE PREVIEW:
Pastor Manny Hays (retired Denver PD officer and current DPD chaplain) will be teaching in my stead this week while I’m recovering from surgery. Manny’s topic centers around the challenging and oft misunderstood subject of predestination as detailed in Romans 8:18-39. Did we choose our calling or were we called to our calling? Why did we and why do we endure this present evil? Join us Thursday for the answer!
NATIONAL POLICE WEEK is underway! Hopefully, at least a few of us are in DC adding some “salt and light” (Matthew 5:13-14) to NPW events. For more, see http://www.nationalpoliceweek.com/ for more.
CHRISTIAN OFFICERS IN THE NEWS!
Something positive in the Media for a change! Click on http://www.denverpost.com/news/ci_14972172.
TRAINING CORNER:
Denver PD Officer G.T. “Todd” Gentry (author of A Bulletproof Life – see http://www.amazon.com/Bulletproof-Life-G-T-Gentry/dp/1606478168) has posted his latest XFit video at http://www.xfit33ad.com/. Excellent profession-relevant strength and conditioning approach set to a powerful biblical backdrop. Learn and apply!
PRAYER REQUESTS:
I’ve updated the prayer requests right here on our website (see next post below). Please take the time to read the requests and join us in praying for those in need of God’s devine intervention (including me as I go in for surgery tomorrow).
In closing, let’s commit ourselves to fervent prayer, obedience and the study of God’s word as we respond to His calling on our lives to serve and protect.
Monday, January 25, 2010
A Leadership "Briefing"
Brothers & Sisters:
It has been an interesting week for many of us who have been called to serve in our God-ordained profession. That said, one of the main issues I deal with both as an officer and as a police chaplain continues to be the subject of leadership and the lack of true servant-leaders in our profession. Accordingly, we’ve begun our second major series on the subject of leadership as it applies law enforcement and the military (based loosely on Col. Ray Fairman’s work, Are you Destined to Lead? A Biblical Examination of Leadership). What makes this new series unique is that I’ll be able to share a significant portion of each discussion with everyone who receives our newsletters or checks our website. Starting today, I'll include a web link to each chapter as posted on Col. Ray Fairman’s website, www.rayfairman.com. Accordingly, last week we introduced our new series by discussing a number of important points Ray makes in his forward: see http://www.rayfairman.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=54&Itemid=9.
This week we’ll be tackling Chapter 1: Leadership Briefing. Don't miss this special opportunity to develop and/or enhance your leadership skills while at the same time deepening your faith and walk with Christ.
Of course, those outside the Denver metro area will miss out on the spirited exchange of ideas, my own unique take on each lesson, and a great time of "warrior fellowship" and prayer.
That said, a series such as this combined with (for example) Deputy Mike Dye’s The PeaceKeepers Bible Study (http://www.christianlawenforcement.com/index.html) provides outstanding material for other Christian law enforcement fellowship groups. Indeed, we are in fact purposely encouraging all law enforcement personnel to become active in a profession-relevant Bible study/fellowship. The Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO -- www.FCPO.org) and Mike's website both list study locations around the country and, if none can be found in your area, we strongly encourage you to prayerfully consider starting one of your own. The FCPO and I have the resources and personnel to help you establish your own chapter. Bottom line: pray, act, and LEAD!
Upcoming MEETING SCHEDULE:
-- REGULAR MEETING (Thursday, 01/28/10, 1900-2030 hours, Calvary South Denver -- www.CalvaryCSD.org, Littleton. We'll meet in classroom #7 unless noted otherwise.)
-- Thursday, 02/04/10: NO MEETING (I will be attending a family event).
-- Thursday, 02/11/10: Regular meeting (same time/place).
"OFFICER DOWN" NEWS:
Our brothers with Ten-Four Ministries have posted a great story written by a LEO from Louisiana who attended the funeral for the four Lakewood (WA) officers who where slain last November 29th. This is a very special "MUST read:" http://www.tenfourministries.org/lakewood.html.
WEBSITE UPDATED:
I've updated our website LINKS section. In particular, check out our ministry page on our "home" church's new website: http://www.calvarycsd.org/bible-studies/centurion-law-enforcement-ministry/. Regardless of your own home church (YES, you should be part of a church fellowship), the Calvary South Denver (CSD) website has a plethora of great resources. It should also be noted that CSD is a VERY "cop friendly" church (Pastor Gino Geraci is also a police chaplain and quite a few officers -- myself included -- are actively involved in various ministries there).
Speaking of being "cop friendly" and the scheduling issues endemic to our profession, I highly recommend Calvary's "Tuesday Night Dialogue" service that starts at 1900 hours. You'll almost always find me there as I'm heavily involved in this unique service/ministry. See http://www.calvarycsd.org/bible-studies/tuesday-night-dialogue/ for more.
PRAYER REQUESTS (as always, send me your requests and praise reports and I'll post them here as appropriate):
(1) PRAISE REPORT! I've received news that a strong Christian law enforcement leader for whom we've been praying has been nominated to be the new US Marshal for Nevada. See http://www.lvrj.com/news/obama-nominates-lv-police-lieutenant-for-us-marshal-post-82236597.html. Let's continue to pray that our country's elected leadership (hmm) will turn to Christ and lead biblically.
(2) Pray for a brother officer whose wife has left him (strength, reconciliation, comfort, peace, etc.).
(3) I attended the farewell party for Mahnomen County (MN) Deputy Chris Dewey last week (bagpipers were awesome) but have just learned that Chris will need yet another surgery. Please pray for Chris and that Emily will stay strong as she stands by her warrior-husband. Emily writes, "Based on the most recent CT scan, as well as consulting with two other neurosurgeons, Chris needs to have another shunt placed. A CSF-filled cyst independent of his ventricles developed. This may be putting pressure on the deeper structures of his brain, and could be why he hasn’t spoken since his crinkliesty. He was also moving his right side a bit prior to surgery, and has since been unable to. We need continued prayers that he has a successful surgery, quick and infection-free recovery, and that this resolves his communication problems. Although there are no guarantees, I am cautiously optimistic that there will be some positive results from this. I’m really trying not to get my hopes up, but if it be His will, improvements will occur. "
(4) PRAISE REPORT! I've received news from Lebanon (NH) Police Chief Jim Alexander that his son Nick has made the US Winter Olympic Team as a ski jumper. How cool is that!
(5) Pray for the Grant Wolf's wife Ruth (illness).
(6) Pray for two brother officers who are struggling with alcoholism and related sin issues: one has already lost his job because of this issue and the other is getting precariously close.
(7) Pray for the mother of a fellow officer (surgery).
(8) Finally, please continue to pray for the people of Haiti and all the police officers and military personnel serving there in the midst of mind-numbing tragedy. God can and will use this for His glory (see also http://www.gotquestions.org/natural-disasters.html). While your at it, please pray for one of our "regulars," Lupe Pruneda (ICE), who will be assisting in the relief effort for the the next month or so.
Virtus et Honor -- "Strength and Honour"-- in Christ (1 Peter 4:11)!
It has been an interesting week for many of us who have been called to serve in our God-ordained profession. That said, one of the main issues I deal with both as an officer and as a police chaplain continues to be the subject of leadership and the lack of true servant-leaders in our profession. Accordingly, we’ve begun our second major series on the subject of leadership as it applies law enforcement and the military (based loosely on Col. Ray Fairman’s work, Are you Destined to Lead? A Biblical Examination of Leadership). What makes this new series unique is that I’ll be able to share a significant portion of each discussion with everyone who receives our newsletters or checks our website. Starting today, I'll include a web link to each chapter as posted on Col. Ray Fairman’s website, www.rayfairman.com. Accordingly, last week we introduced our new series by discussing a number of important points Ray makes in his forward: see http://www.rayfairman.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=54&Itemid=9.
This week we’ll be tackling Chapter 1: Leadership Briefing. Don't miss this special opportunity to develop and/or enhance your leadership skills while at the same time deepening your faith and walk with Christ.
Of course, those outside the Denver metro area will miss out on the spirited exchange of ideas, my own unique take on each lesson, and a great time of "warrior fellowship" and prayer.
That said, a series such as this combined with (for example) Deputy Mike Dye’s The PeaceKeepers Bible Study (http://www.christianlawenforcement.com/index.html) provides outstanding material for other Christian law enforcement fellowship groups. Indeed, we are in fact purposely encouraging all law enforcement personnel to become active in a profession-relevant Bible study/fellowship. The Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO -- www.FCPO.org) and Mike's website both list study locations around the country and, if none can be found in your area, we strongly encourage you to prayerfully consider starting one of your own. The FCPO and I have the resources and personnel to help you establish your own chapter. Bottom line: pray, act, and LEAD!
Upcoming MEETING SCHEDULE:
-- REGULAR MEETING (Thursday, 01/28/10, 1900-2030 hours, Calvary South Denver -- www.CalvaryCSD.org, Littleton. We'll meet in classroom #7 unless noted otherwise.)
-- Thursday, 02/04/10: NO MEETING (I will be attending a family event).
-- Thursday, 02/11/10: Regular meeting (same time/place).
"OFFICER DOWN" NEWS:
Our brothers with Ten-Four Ministries have posted a great story written by a LEO from Louisiana who attended the funeral for the four Lakewood (WA) officers who where slain last November 29th. This is a very special "MUST read:" http://www.tenfourministries.org/lakewood.html.
WEBSITE UPDATED:
I've updated our website LINKS section. In particular, check out our ministry page on our "home" church's new website: http://www.calvarycsd.org/bible-studies/centurion-law-enforcement-ministry/. Regardless of your own home church (YES, you should be part of a church fellowship), the Calvary South Denver (CSD) website has a plethora of great resources. It should also be noted that CSD is a VERY "cop friendly" church (Pastor Gino Geraci is also a police chaplain and quite a few officers -- myself included -- are actively involved in various ministries there).
Speaking of being "cop friendly" and the scheduling issues endemic to our profession, I highly recommend Calvary's "Tuesday Night Dialogue" service that starts at 1900 hours. You'll almost always find me there as I'm heavily involved in this unique service/ministry. See http://www.calvarycsd.org/bible-studies/tuesday-night-dialogue/ for more.
PRAYER REQUESTS (as always, send me your requests and praise reports and I'll post them here as appropriate):
(1) PRAISE REPORT! I've received news that a strong Christian law enforcement leader for whom we've been praying has been nominated to be the new US Marshal for Nevada. See http://www.lvrj.com/news/obama-nominates-lv-police-lieutenant-for-us-marshal-post-82236597.html. Let's continue to pray that our country's elected leadership (hmm) will turn to Christ and lead biblically.
(2) Pray for a brother officer whose wife has left him (strength, reconciliation, comfort, peace, etc.).
(3) I attended the farewell party for Mahnomen County (MN) Deputy Chris Dewey last week (bagpipers were awesome) but have just learned that Chris will need yet another surgery. Please pray for Chris and that Emily will stay strong as she stands by her warrior-husband. Emily writes, "Based on the most recent CT scan, as well as consulting with two other neurosurgeons, Chris needs to have another shunt placed. A CSF-filled cyst independent of his ventricles developed. This may be putting pressure on the deeper structures of his brain, and could be why he hasn’t spoken since his crinkliesty. He was also moving his right side a bit prior to surgery, and has since been unable to. We need continued prayers that he has a successful surgery, quick and infection-free recovery, and that this resolves his communication problems. Although there are no guarantees, I am cautiously optimistic that there will be some positive results from this. I’m really trying not to get my hopes up, but if it be His will, improvements will occur. "
(4) PRAISE REPORT! I've received news from Lebanon (NH) Police Chief Jim Alexander that his son Nick has made the US Winter Olympic Team as a ski jumper. How cool is that!
(5) Pray for the Grant Wolf's wife Ruth (illness).
(6) Pray for two brother officers who are struggling with alcoholism and related sin issues: one has already lost his job because of this issue and the other is getting precariously close.
(7) Pray for the mother of a fellow officer (surgery).
(8) Finally, please continue to pray for the people of Haiti and all the police officers and military personnel serving there in the midst of mind-numbing tragedy. God can and will use this for His glory (see also http://www.gotquestions.org/natural-disasters.html). While your at it, please pray for one of our "regulars," Lupe Pruneda (ICE), who will be assisting in the relief effort for the the next month or so.
Virtus et Honor -- "Strength and Honour"-- in Christ (1 Peter 4:11)!
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