The Arkansas City (KS) Police Department is hosting a Badge of Hope Law Enforcement Marriage Seminar on August 5th from 1300-1600 and August 6th from 0900 to 1200. Each session is identical. The seminar is offered on two different days to accommodate shift work. Law Enforcement, Fire, and EMS are all encouraged to attend.
It’s no secret that divorce is huge within the public safety professions, not to mention PTSD, alcoholism, drug addiction and other types of stress-induced, destructive behaviors. Recognizing the effects that a public safety career can have on the family, Rick and Kristi Neace have spent the last five years talking to public safety officers and their spouses, public safety agencies, and reaching out through media and other means to spread a message of hope that relationships can be healed, and public safety marriages can and do last.
If interested, please enroll with Ashley at 620-441-4447. The class is free!
Badge of Hope Seminar Schedule
Monday, August 5th - 1-4 PM/Tuesday, August 6th - 9 AM -12 PM
1 - 1:30 PM/9 - 9:30 AM - LE Marriage 101 (Statistics; What marriage is supposed to look like; What they don't tell you in police academy, etc.)
1:30 - 2:00 PM/9:30 - 10 AM - The Communication Factor (Emotional shut-down; Dictatorship vs. Partnership; Defragmenting, Reconnecting, etc.)
Break
2:10 - 2:30 PM/10:10 - 10:30 AM - Manning the Walls (Shoring up the home front; Boundaries and personal armor)
2:30 - 3:00 PM/10:30 - 11 AM - Stress Effects on Marriage and the Family (Alcohol/prescription drug abuse; Violence; Isolation; Anxiety in children, etc.)
Break
3:10 - 4:00 PM/11:10 AM - 12 PM - *Round table Discussions: Officers with Cpl. Rick Neace & Spouses with Kristi Neace
--
Sean Wallace
Chief of Police
Arkansas City Police Department
117 W. Central Ave.
Arkansas City, KS. 67005
620-441-4447 (Office)
620-441-3767 (Cell)
620-442-1410 (FAX)
FBI NA Session 222
Showing posts with label Chief Sean Wallace. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chief Sean Wallace. Show all posts
Monday, July 8, 2013
Monday, May 6, 2013
This week's Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry and FCPO newsletter and devotional has gone out via email to our worldwide readership but here it is again: just click on "Retreat." Secondly, please join us in praying for the following:
Updated 05/02/13
-- Please continue to pray for Colorado State Patrol Trooper Edward "Eddie" Taylor who sufferred a heart attack this weekend and is in very critical condition. His cardiologist is a Christian and Eddie is surrounded by his family, friends and loved ones. Pray also for his family, including but by no means limited to his father and my pastor, Ed Taylor, his mother Marie, wife Rachel, baby son Levi and many more.
-- Pray for the family and colleagues of Littleton (CO) PD Officer Kevin Denner who was struck and killed by a drunk driver whilst he was en route to court. LPD is pushing to have Kevin's death ruled as being "on-duty." One of Kevin's good friends also lost his father...extra prayers please.
-- Pray for the colleagues and family of a deputy in the Georgia who took his own life (not saying which agency -- God knows the details -- just pray).
-- Praise report! Fellow FCPO National Board member and police chief Sean Wallace gave a great message in Texas on Sunday. Thanks to all who prayed for him in this endeavor.
-- Scott Chamberlain writes,
"Due to the death of a friend (colon cancer) and attending his memorial as an honorary pall bearer and ministering with the family, I have to cancel Tuesday night May 7th. Dan's wife, Cindi is a former Mrs. Oregon and also has stage 4 cancer. She is challenged by the death of her husband and being sick from radiation treatments. If you think about us on Tuesday, lift a prayer of thanksgiving and a prayer for continued strength. God is real good. Dan was a believer as is Cindi."
More to follow...please check back frequently.
Updated 05/02/13
-- Please continue to pray for Colorado State Patrol Trooper Edward "Eddie" Taylor who sufferred a heart attack this weekend and is in very critical condition. His cardiologist is a Christian and Eddie is surrounded by his family, friends and loved ones. Pray also for his family, including but by no means limited to his father and my pastor, Ed Taylor, his mother Marie, wife Rachel, baby son Levi and many more.
-- Pray for the family and colleagues of Littleton (CO) PD Officer Kevin Denner who was struck and killed by a drunk driver whilst he was en route to court. LPD is pushing to have Kevin's death ruled as being "on-duty." One of Kevin's good friends also lost his father...extra prayers please.
-- Pray for the colleagues and family of a deputy in the Georgia who took his own life (not saying which agency -- God knows the details -- just pray).
-- Praise report! Fellow FCPO National Board member and police chief Sean Wallace gave a great message in Texas on Sunday. Thanks to all who prayed for him in this endeavor.
-- Scott Chamberlain writes,
"Due to the death of a friend (colon cancer) and attending his memorial as an honorary pall bearer and ministering with the family, I have to cancel Tuesday night May 7th. Dan's wife, Cindi is a former Mrs. Oregon and also has stage 4 cancer. She is challenged by the death of her husband and being sick from radiation treatments. If you think about us on Tuesday, lift a prayer of thanksgiving and a prayer for continued strength. God is real good. Dan was a believer as is Cindi."
More to follow...please check back frequently.
Monday, April 29, 2013
Believer or Disciple?
This week's Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry/FCPO Newsletter and Devotional has gone out to our worldwide list of subscribers (free and easy to sign-up) but here it is again -- just click on "Believer or Disciple?" The devotional will challenge and stretch you...
Secondly, I wanted to once again remind folks in Texas that fellow Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers National Board member Chief Sean Wallace of Arkansas City, Kansas will be speaking at the Public Safety Appreciation Sunday being held NorthPointe Church in Burleson, Texas on May 5th. See below for more and please pray for Sean as he shares Christ's plan with LEOs and the public we serve.
When: Sunday, May 5, 2013 at 9AM and 10:30 AM (whichever service fits your schedule best)
Where: NorthPointe Church, 2450 S.W. Wilshire Blvd Burleson, Texas 76028
More Info: 817-546-5212 Church, 256-509-9299 Mobile
* Public Safety personnel are encouraged to come in uniform, but it is not required.
Secondly, I wanted to once again remind folks in Texas that fellow Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers National Board member Chief Sean Wallace of Arkansas City, Kansas will be speaking at the Public Safety Appreciation Sunday being held NorthPointe Church in Burleson, Texas on May 5th. See below for more and please pray for Sean as he shares Christ's plan with LEOs and the public we serve.
When: Sunday, May 5, 2013 at 9AM and 10:30 AM (whichever service fits your schedule best)
Where: NorthPointe Church, 2450 S.W. Wilshire Blvd Burleson, Texas 76028
More Info: 817-546-5212 Church, 256-509-9299 Mobile
* Public Safety personnel are encouraged to come in uniform, but it is not required.
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Late Breaking Prayer Requests
** Pray for a chief on the east coast who is in the midst of a political (and spiritual) battle within his agency and the powers above him. This chief is a strong believer.
** Pray for a Colorado State Patrol chaplain who is donating his kidney to a colleague today (pray for successful surgery, recovery and that the kidney won't be rejected).
** Pray for Arkansas City (KS) PD Chief Sean Wallace as he preaches at an upcoming First Responder Appreciation Day event in Texas next month (see April 21 post below for more details).
** From Chief Randy Brashears in MA:
1. The MIT Officer Sean Collier's public funeral will be this Wed. at noon. Pray for the Gospel to proclaimed.
2. The University of Massachusetts -- Lowell (UML) will be holding a candle light vigil in the Donahue Quad on Wed. night at 8 pm. I will be speaking at that event.
3. On Sunday April 28th I will be sharing a testimony during the morning church service. The location is : Mill City Church, 81 Bridge St., Lowell, MA. They meet on the second floor of the building. The service time is 10:30 AM.
4. Dr. David Jeremiah of Turning Point Ministries will be coming to New England for a one day event. The event will be held at the UML's Tsongas Arena on June 13th @ 7 PM.
Check back frequently for additional.
** Pray for a Colorado State Patrol chaplain who is donating his kidney to a colleague today (pray for successful surgery, recovery and that the kidney won't be rejected).
** Pray for Arkansas City (KS) PD Chief Sean Wallace as he preaches at an upcoming First Responder Appreciation Day event in Texas next month (see April 21 post below for more details).
** From Chief Randy Brashears in MA:
1. The MIT Officer Sean Collier's public funeral will be this Wed. at noon. Pray for the Gospel to proclaimed.
2. The University of Massachusetts -- Lowell (UML) will be holding a candle light vigil in the Donahue Quad on Wed. night at 8 pm. I will be speaking at that event.
3. On Sunday April 28th I will be sharing a testimony during the morning church service. The location is : Mill City Church, 81 Bridge St., Lowell, MA. They meet on the second floor of the building. The service time is 10:30 AM.
4. Dr. David Jeremiah of Turning Point Ministries will be coming to New England for a one day event. The event will be held at the UML's Tsongas Arena on June 13th @ 7 PM.
Check back frequently for additional.
Sunday, April 21, 2013
"Officer Down!" -- Our Ultimate Call for Service
This week's newsletter and law enforcement devotional has gone out to my email subscribers but here it is again -- just click on "Officer Down!" Lots of news and announcements as well. Pass it on!
Let's continue to pray for our fellow LEOs and their families.
Finally, it was really cool to see an outpouring of support for us in LE for a change (Boston-areas officers). Truly rare, although we don't serve in our God-ordained profession (Romans 13:1-4) of law enforcement for the public's accolades. Nice if it comes, but most certainly rare.
Blessings, fellow servant-warriors!
Special Event and Prayer Request:
Join us for a morning of music, a time of honoring your profession, and a special message from:
Chief Sean Wallace is a 26-year police veteran and a part of the international ministry of the Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers, Sean has a passion for encouraging his fellow Public Safety servants.
When: Sunday, May 5, 2013 at 9AM and 10:30 AM (whichever service fits your schedule best)
Where: NorthPointe Church, 2450 S.W. Wilshire Blvd Burleson, Texas 76028
More Info: 817-546-5212 Church, 256-509-9299 Mobile
* Public Safety personnel are encouraged to come in uniform, but it is not required.
Let's continue to pray for our fellow LEOs and their families.
Finally, it was really cool to see an outpouring of support for us in LE for a change (Boston-areas officers). Truly rare, although we don't serve in our God-ordained profession (Romans 13:1-4) of law enforcement for the public's accolades. Nice if it comes, but most certainly rare.
Blessings, fellow servant-warriors!
Special Event and Prayer Request:
Public Safety Appreciation Sunday
Fellow FCPO board member and Arkansas City (KS) Police Chief SeanWallace will be the special guest speaker at the Public Safety Appreciation Sunday being held NorthPointe Church in Burleson, Texas on May 5th. See below for more and please pray for Sean as he shares Christ's plan with LEOs and the public we serve.
“For he (the peace officer) is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.” Romans 13:4
Join us for a morning of music, a time of honoring your profession, and a special message from:
Chief Sean Wallace is a 26-year police veteran and a part of the international ministry of the Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers, Sean has a passion for encouraging his fellow Public Safety servants.
When: Sunday, May 5, 2013 at 9AM and 10:30 AM (whichever service fits your schedule best)
Where: NorthPointe Church, 2450 S.W. Wilshire Blvd Burleson, Texas 76028
More Info: 817-546-5212 Church, 256-509-9299 Mobile
* Public Safety personnel are encouraged to come in uniform, but it is not required.
Monday, October 1, 2012
FCPO Conference, Centurion Ministry Newsletter/Devotional, Prayer Requests and More
We are home from an amazingly successful (praise God) Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO) National Conference and this week's Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry/FCPO Newsletter has been sent out to our contacts worldwide. For this who missed it, here it is again: http://conta.cc/PGx21z. Be sure to pass it on!
Pics from the conference are starting to show up on Facebook (to start with, try Jonathan Parker's Covered Law Enforcement photo page). I'll be posting more on both the Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry Facebook page and on the Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers -- USA page (as will others).
Finally, new Prayer Requests are posted below. Please take the time to join us in prayer reference these requests (and feel free to send me yours).
PRAYER REQUESTS: Updated 10/01/2012
** Please pray for NMSP/SID Sgt. Lee Mullen who is in critical condition after suffering a heart attack.
** Pray for the Christian leaders (meaning those chiefs who are truly living their faith) at the IACP conference in CA this week (boldness in their faith and opportunities to share Christ).
** Pray for a deputy and his family reference serious financial problems (in danger of losing their home) and issues with their adult son as well.
** Praise Report! Thanks to all who prayed concerning this year's FCPO National Conference. God answered! That said, there were some who came who are also in need of prayer (families, job issues, etc.) -- just pray!
** Please pray for the newborn granddaughter of Chattanooga PD Sgt. Mike Minnick. Baby is having breathing problems and possible pneumonia.
** Pray that the Christian chiefs attending the IACP conference will be sold-out for their faith and share Christ openly. Pray also for Arkansas City, KS Chief Sean Wallace as he speaks tomorrow (10/2).
** A police chief writes, "Please pray for my son . He was in the police academy at the top of his class when he had a bicycle accident and broke his collar bone. This required him to leave the academy and he had surgery on 9/28. His PD does not have a lot of "light duty" work for him and because he has only worked for them two months he is already out of leave. He will be off work recuperating without pay. He has to recuperate enough by November 5th to join the next academy class where he left off or he will be released by his PD. Please pray for his healing, recuperation, and finances. He is a strong believer so he is trusting the Lord but he is a bit nervous about he will take care of his family."
Pics from the conference are starting to show up on Facebook (to start with, try Jonathan Parker's Covered Law Enforcement photo page). I'll be posting more on both the Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry Facebook page and on the Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers -- USA page (as will others).
Finally, new Prayer Requests are posted below. Please take the time to join us in prayer reference these requests (and feel free to send me yours).
PRAYER REQUESTS: Updated 10/01/2012
** Please pray for NMSP/SID Sgt. Lee Mullen who is in critical condition after suffering a heart attack.
** Pray for the Christian leaders (meaning those chiefs who are truly living their faith) at the IACP conference in CA this week (boldness in their faith and opportunities to share Christ).
** Pray for a deputy and his family reference serious financial problems (in danger of losing their home) and issues with their adult son as well.
** Praise Report! Thanks to all who prayed concerning this year's FCPO National Conference. God answered! That said, there were some who came who are also in need of prayer (families, job issues, etc.) -- just pray!
** Please pray for the newborn granddaughter of Chattanooga PD Sgt. Mike Minnick. Baby is having breathing problems and possible pneumonia.
** Pray that the Christian chiefs attending the IACP conference will be sold-out for their faith and share Christ openly. Pray also for Arkansas City, KS Chief Sean Wallace as he speaks tomorrow (10/2).
** A police chief writes, "Please pray for my son . He was in the police academy at the top of his class when he had a bicycle accident and broke his collar bone. This required him to leave the academy and he had surgery on 9/28. His PD does not have a lot of "light duty" work for him and because he has only worked for them two months he is already out of leave. He will be off work recuperating without pay. He has to recuperate enough by November 5th to join the next academy class where he left off or he will be released by his PD. Please pray for his healing, recuperation, and finances. He is a strong believer so he is trusting the Lord but he is a bit nervous about he will take care of his family."
Monday, September 17, 2012
Understanding Your Mission: The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry & FCPO-Denver Newsletter for Week of 9/16/2012
This week's newsletter, including our weekly Bible study/devotional, has gone out to our worldwide list of email subscribers. If you missed it or are not signed up yet, here it is again: Newsletter. This week's edition also includes our final video report from Moldova given by this year's team leader, Chief Sean Wallace from Arkansas City, KS, along with info about our upcoming Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers national conference and much, much more Check it out and pass it on!
As I reflect on our time in the small, poor but "people rich" eastern European country of Moldova, it is clear that God used the experience to change me (and implement change in me) much more perhaps than I was able to impact our Moldovan hosts and police brethren. I was totally blessed to be a part of the outstanding team Sean assembled for this year's mission and am excited about Phase III that is now in the works (bringing some Moldovan officers to the US to work with our agencies for a couple of weeks while also sending American officers back to Moldova for more time with them). Bottom line is that while this country is still working its way out from under the yoke of Communism, they have great potential if they can keep their best and brightest from leaving. That said, pray that the seeds we planted will grow in their great "soil" and that God will bless and protect the small but growing evangelical movement there.
In closing, let me once again urge you to join us for this year's FCPO National Conference set for September 28-30 in DeLand, FL. Details? Scroll down here on our website (August 8th post, I believe), click on the conference link above or shoot me an email at fullarmor911@yahoo.com.
Stay safe but radically bold in Christ.
MC
As I reflect on our time in the small, poor but "people rich" eastern European country of Moldova, it is clear that God used the experience to change me (and implement change in me) much more perhaps than I was able to impact our Moldovan hosts and police brethren. I was totally blessed to be a part of the outstanding team Sean assembled for this year's mission and am excited about Phase III that is now in the works (bringing some Moldovan officers to the US to work with our agencies for a couple of weeks while also sending American officers back to Moldova for more time with them). Bottom line is that while this country is still working its way out from under the yoke of Communism, they have great potential if they can keep their best and brightest from leaving. That said, pray that the seeds we planted will grow in their great "soil" and that God will bless and protect the small but growing evangelical movement there.
In closing, let me once again urge you to join us for this year's FCPO National Conference set for September 28-30 in DeLand, FL. Details? Scroll down here on our website (August 8th post, I believe), click on the conference link above or shoot me an email at fullarmor911@yahoo.com.
Stay safe but radically bold in Christ.
MC
Sunday, September 9, 2012
9/11, FCPO Moldova Mission Report and More: TCLEM/FCPO Newsletter
This week's newsletter has gone out to our worldwide subscribers but is also available by clicking HERE. It includes news about our upcoming FCPO National Conference, a report on our recently completed FCPO mission to the police and people of Moldova, my 9/11 devotional/Bible study and more. Take the time to check it out and pass it on.
Speaking of Moldova, check out this video of our fearless leader Sean Wallace talking about this year's mission: Team Moldova Update.
Speaking of Moldova, check out this video of our fearless leader Sean Wallace talking about this year's mission: Team Moldova Update.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Cops United in Combat: TCLEM Newsletter
Fellow Servant-Warriors and Leaders:
Lots to cover in this week’s newsletter but please take the time to read it through and apply the biblical truth presented here to your own lives.
Right off, this week’s tactical, profession-relevant Bible study will be a follow-up to last week’s teaching on Why God Allows Evil? (see RECAP below). Specifically, I’ll share an in-depth study based on Dep. Mike Dye’s (author of The PeaceKeepers -- see http://www.christianlawenforcement.com/index.html) June 2nd devotional in Grant Wolf's Stories of Faith and Courage from Cops on the Street. The study presents a viable avenue for us as Christians and law enforcement officers to combat evil and make a real difference in our communities through the power of prayer. I’ve entitled it Cops United in Combat and I’ll have a full recap for you in next week’s newsletter – stay tuned!
Please take the time to check out the latest PRAYER REQUESTS, local MEETING SCHEDULES, news, announcements and more here on this ever-changing website.
__________________
Chief needs assistance for upcoming law enforcement mission trip to Moldova:
Arkansas City (KS) Chief Sean Wallace writes,
On June 25th I will be traveling to the Republic of Moldova with seven other police officers to provide training, supplies, and to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with fellow officers there. The trip is a mission of the Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers, USA. Please consider supporting me and the team in your prayers. I also need your financial support as I need to raise approximately $3,500.00 for the airfare, food and lodging, and freight to take supplies to their police department. If you can donate even a small amount it would be greatly appreciated.
You can send your donation to First Baptist Church at 220 East Central Avenue, Arkansas City, KS 67005-2616. Make checks payable to First Baptist Church, Ark City. Note "Moldovan Mission" in the memo. All of your donations are tax deductable.
_____________________
MESSAGE RECAP: Why God Allows Evil and Tragedy?
Our friends at GotQuestions.org provide a great biblical answer at http://www.gotquestions.org/God-allow-evil.html. That answer goes hand-in-hand with this question: Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people? The biblical answer can be found at http://www.gotquestions.org/bad-things-good-people.html.
Evangelist Billy Graham also offers an insightful response to these questions in his book Answers to Life's Problems:
We do not know all the reasons why God permits evil. We need to remember, however, that he is not the cause of evil in this world and we should therefore not blame Him for it. Remember that God did not create evil, as some believe. God created the world perfect. Man chose to defy God and go his own way, and it is man's fault that evil entered the world. Even so, God has provided the ultimate triumph of good over evil in Jesus Christ, who on the cross, defeated Satan and those who follow him. Christ is coming back and when He does, all evil will be ended forever and righteousness and justice will prevail.
Have you ever thought about what would happen if God suddenly eliminated all the evil in this world? Not one person would be left, because we are all guilty of sin.
So how do these questions apply to those of us serving in law enforcement? Folks, we are at war both in the world of law enforcement and the military but also spiritually. Alistair Begg provides part of the answer:
Are you fighting with the adversary today? Are Satan, the world, and the flesh all against you? Do not be discouraged nor dismayed. Fight on! For God Himself is with you. Jehovah Nissi is your banner, and Jehovah Rophi is the healer of your wounds. Do not fear, you will overcome, for who can defeat Omnipotence? Fight on, "looking to Jesus" (Hebrews 12:2) and although the conflict is long and tough, the victory will be sweet, and the promised reward will be glorious.
Quoting 1 Chronicles 5:22 (For many fell, because the war was of God), Alistair goes on to say,
Warrior, as you fight under the banner of the Lord Jesus, observe this verse with holy joy, for as it was in the days of old, so is it now: If the war is of God, the victory is sure. The armies of God could barely muster forty-five thousand fighting men, and yet in their war with the enemy, they captured "a hundred thousand men," "for they cried to God in the battle, and he granted their urgent plea because they trusted in him."
The Lord saves not by many, nor by few; it is ours to go in Jehovah's name even if we are only a handful of men, for the Lord of Hosts is with us as our Captain. They did not neglect their weapons, but neither did they place their trust in them; we must use all fitting means, but our confidence must rest in the Lord alone, for He is the sword and the shield of His people. The great reason for their extraordinary success lay in the fact that "the war was of God."
Beloved, in fighting with sin in us and around us, with error doctrinal or practical, with spiritual wickedness in high places or low places, with devils and the devil's allies, you are waging Jehovah's war, and unless He himself can be defeated, you do not need to fear defeat. Do not tremble before superior numbers; do not shrink from difficulties or impossibilities; do not flinch at wounds or death; strike with the two-edged sword of the Spirit, and the dead shall lie in heaps.
The battle is the Lord's, and He will deliver His enemies into our hands. With steadfast foot, strong hand, dauntless heart, and flaming zeal, rush to the conflict, and the hosts of evil will fly like chaff before the gale.
We are in a fight – a war -- against evil and as peace officers we are at the tip of God’s spear. Accordingly, we must NEVER forget that it is God who fights for us and that we MUST seek Him in all we do. He must be first in our lives and we must be obedient both professionally and personally if we are to be effective good soldiers of Christ (2 Timothy 2:3).
Romans 12:9-21 offers further insight into these questions that have great application to our service as LEOs:
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary, “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
A huge part of our call as God’s peacekeepers is to CONFRONT EVIL and we can only be truly effective at that if we are in fact His first (to wit, being truly saved via a life-saving, life-changing personal relationship with Jesus Christ). 2 Samuel 12 presents a picture of this when the prophet Nathan is sent by God to confront David for his sins of murder and adultery (The LORD sent Nathan to David). When God judges a situation He often uses His servants (us) as vessels for communicating to the guilty party. Law enforcement is a profession through which God wants to use you to be His instrument to bring righteousness to a situation.
The bottom line is that there is evil in the world because of our sin – and not just that of the suspects we deal with daily but also in our own lives as well. The solution? There is truly only one viable answer – Jesus Christ!
I’d like to conclude this study by urging you to watch two short videos by my friend and colleague Travis Yates of Tulsa PD and Ten-Four Ministries:
(1) http://thecenturionpapers.blogspot.com/2011/06/wall-why-does-god-permit-tragedy.html (filmed at our Wall in Washington, DC during Police Week).
And
(2) http://thecenturionpapers.blogspot.com/2011/05/mans-greatest-problem.html
___________________
Courageous (the movie)!
The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry and our Denver-area chapter (FCPO-Denver, Chapter 217) will be attending and participating (Action Squad) in a special screening of this outstanding new film by the makers of Fireproof and Facing the Giants. This is by far their best production to date and it has tremendous application for us both as LEOs and as fathers and husbands. Set for general release in September, those of us serving in ministry (all who are part of this outreach) have a unique opportunity to see it early on Friday, June 17th in Parker, CO. I can send you the link to RSVP and obtain free tickets for you and a guest if you’re in the area and wish to join us. Otherwise, I encourage you to go to www.courageousthemovie.com and check out the plethora of resources. Special showings such as this one are happening nationwide and I encourage you to jump in!
____________________
That’s the roll call briefing for this week. Let’s stay the course, stay in the fight, and finish strong in Christ!
Lots to cover in this week’s newsletter but please take the time to read it through and apply the biblical truth presented here to your own lives.
Right off, this week’s tactical, profession-relevant Bible study will be a follow-up to last week’s teaching on Why God Allows Evil? (see RECAP below). Specifically, I’ll share an in-depth study based on Dep. Mike Dye’s (author of The PeaceKeepers -- see http://www.christianlawenforcement.com/index.html) June 2nd devotional in Grant Wolf's Stories of Faith and Courage from Cops on the Street. The study presents a viable avenue for us as Christians and law enforcement officers to combat evil and make a real difference in our communities through the power of prayer. I’ve entitled it Cops United in Combat and I’ll have a full recap for you in next week’s newsletter – stay tuned!
Please take the time to check out the latest PRAYER REQUESTS, local MEETING SCHEDULES, news, announcements and more here on this ever-changing website.
__________________
Chief needs assistance for upcoming law enforcement mission trip to Moldova:
Arkansas City (KS) Chief Sean Wallace writes,
On June 25th I will be traveling to the Republic of Moldova with seven other police officers to provide training, supplies, and to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with fellow officers there. The trip is a mission of the Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers, USA. Please consider supporting me and the team in your prayers. I also need your financial support as I need to raise approximately $3,500.00 for the airfare, food and lodging, and freight to take supplies to their police department. If you can donate even a small amount it would be greatly appreciated.
You can send your donation to First Baptist Church at 220 East Central Avenue, Arkansas City, KS 67005-2616. Make checks payable to First Baptist Church, Ark City. Note "Moldovan Mission" in the memo. All of your donations are tax deductable.
_____________________
MESSAGE RECAP: Why God Allows Evil and Tragedy?
Our friends at GotQuestions.org provide a great biblical answer at http://www.gotquestions.org/God-allow-evil.html. That answer goes hand-in-hand with this question: Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people? The biblical answer can be found at http://www.gotquestions.org/bad-things-good-people.html.
Evangelist Billy Graham also offers an insightful response to these questions in his book Answers to Life's Problems:
We do not know all the reasons why God permits evil. We need to remember, however, that he is not the cause of evil in this world and we should therefore not blame Him for it. Remember that God did not create evil, as some believe. God created the world perfect. Man chose to defy God and go his own way, and it is man's fault that evil entered the world. Even so, God has provided the ultimate triumph of good over evil in Jesus Christ, who on the cross, defeated Satan and those who follow him. Christ is coming back and when He does, all evil will be ended forever and righteousness and justice will prevail.
Have you ever thought about what would happen if God suddenly eliminated all the evil in this world? Not one person would be left, because we are all guilty of sin.
So how do these questions apply to those of us serving in law enforcement? Folks, we are at war both in the world of law enforcement and the military but also spiritually. Alistair Begg provides part of the answer:
Are you fighting with the adversary today? Are Satan, the world, and the flesh all against you? Do not be discouraged nor dismayed. Fight on! For God Himself is with you. Jehovah Nissi is your banner, and Jehovah Rophi is the healer of your wounds. Do not fear, you will overcome, for who can defeat Omnipotence? Fight on, "looking to Jesus" (Hebrews 12:2) and although the conflict is long and tough, the victory will be sweet, and the promised reward will be glorious.
Quoting 1 Chronicles 5:22 (For many fell, because the war was of God), Alistair goes on to say,
Warrior, as you fight under the banner of the Lord Jesus, observe this verse with holy joy, for as it was in the days of old, so is it now: If the war is of God, the victory is sure. The armies of God could barely muster forty-five thousand fighting men, and yet in their war with the enemy, they captured "a hundred thousand men," "for they cried to God in the battle, and he granted their urgent plea because they trusted in him."
The Lord saves not by many, nor by few; it is ours to go in Jehovah's name even if we are only a handful of men, for the Lord of Hosts is with us as our Captain. They did not neglect their weapons, but neither did they place their trust in them; we must use all fitting means, but our confidence must rest in the Lord alone, for He is the sword and the shield of His people. The great reason for their extraordinary success lay in the fact that "the war was of God."
Beloved, in fighting with sin in us and around us, with error doctrinal or practical, with spiritual wickedness in high places or low places, with devils and the devil's allies, you are waging Jehovah's war, and unless He himself can be defeated, you do not need to fear defeat. Do not tremble before superior numbers; do not shrink from difficulties or impossibilities; do not flinch at wounds or death; strike with the two-edged sword of the Spirit, and the dead shall lie in heaps.
The battle is the Lord's, and He will deliver His enemies into our hands. With steadfast foot, strong hand, dauntless heart, and flaming zeal, rush to the conflict, and the hosts of evil will fly like chaff before the gale.
We are in a fight – a war -- against evil and as peace officers we are at the tip of God’s spear. Accordingly, we must NEVER forget that it is God who fights for us and that we MUST seek Him in all we do. He must be first in our lives and we must be obedient both professionally and personally if we are to be effective good soldiers of Christ (2 Timothy 2:3).
Romans 12:9-21 offers further insight into these questions that have great application to our service as LEOs:
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary, “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
A huge part of our call as God’s peacekeepers is to CONFRONT EVIL and we can only be truly effective at that if we are in fact His first (to wit, being truly saved via a life-saving, life-changing personal relationship with Jesus Christ). 2 Samuel 12 presents a picture of this when the prophet Nathan is sent by God to confront David for his sins of murder and adultery (The LORD sent Nathan to David). When God judges a situation He often uses His servants (us) as vessels for communicating to the guilty party. Law enforcement is a profession through which God wants to use you to be His instrument to bring righteousness to a situation.
The bottom line is that there is evil in the world because of our sin – and not just that of the suspects we deal with daily but also in our own lives as well. The solution? There is truly only one viable answer – Jesus Christ!
I’d like to conclude this study by urging you to watch two short videos by my friend and colleague Travis Yates of Tulsa PD and Ten-Four Ministries:
(1) http://thecenturionpapers.blogspot.com/2011/06/wall-why-does-god-permit-tragedy.html (filmed at our Wall in Washington, DC during Police Week).
And
(2) http://thecenturionpapers.blogspot.com/2011/05/mans-greatest-problem.html
___________________
Courageous (the movie)!
The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry and our Denver-area chapter (FCPO-Denver, Chapter 217) will be attending and participating (Action Squad) in a special screening of this outstanding new film by the makers of Fireproof and Facing the Giants. This is by far their best production to date and it has tremendous application for us both as LEOs and as fathers and husbands. Set for general release in September, those of us serving in ministry (all who are part of this outreach) have a unique opportunity to see it early on Friday, June 17th in Parker, CO. I can send you the link to RSVP and obtain free tickets for you and a guest if you’re in the area and wish to join us. Otherwise, I encourage you to go to www.courageousthemovie.com and check out the plethora of resources. Special showings such as this one are happening nationwide and I encourage you to jump in!
____________________
That’s the roll call briefing for this week. Let’s stay the course, stay in the fight, and finish strong in Christ!
Monday, October 4, 2010
True Repentance, Real Forgiveness
Fellow Servant-Warriors:
We had a full house at last week’s meeting of our local fellowship here in Denver. My message centered on the oft-misunderstood but essential biblical concepts of true repentance and real forgiveness. Here’s the RECAP for all those who could not attend or reside outside the Denver-metro area:
STUDY RECAP: True Repentance, Real Forgiveness
True biblical REPENTANCE is not just being “sorry” for having offended God. The Hebrew word for “repent” is shub, and literally means to “turn back” or “turn around;” a complete change in direction akin to a receding flood. The Greek word for “repentance” is metanoia and denotes a “change of mind” along with remorse for sin accompanied by turning away from our that sin and towards God for salvation. True repentance thefore includes not only sorrow but also a complete turnaround: to change one’s mind about sin, receive God’s provision of salvation, and giving oneself completely to Him. Ezekiel 14:2 says, Thus says the Lord GOD: “Repent, turn away from your idols, and turn your faces away from all your abominations.” In Judges 10:10-16, the people of Israel acknowledge (admit) their sin in an attitude of true repentance and God lovingly responded. Teaching on this passage, my pastor, Sam Park, noted that true repentance ALWAYS results in God’s grace and mercy – that our loving Father looks at the heart – a heart totally surrendered to Him. True repentance also means admitting that nothing we do on our own -- including what we do as officers, can "earn" us forgiveness and salvation. That said, the Bible – God’s inerrant, breathed word, reveals that genuine repentance will necessarily result in a change of actions (Luke 3:8-14, Acts 3:19). Acts 26:20 declares, I preached that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance. In short, the full biblical definition of true repentance is a change of mind that results in a change of action (evidence). See also Matthew 3:8, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Galatians 5:19-23, and James 2:14-26.
Understand that repentance goes hand-in-hand with FORGIVENESS and ultimately our salvation. Again, God will ALWAYS forgive those who come to Him in an attitude of true repentance. 1 John 1:9 tells us, if we confess our sins, He (God) is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. See also Psalm 51 (esp. v. 17), Psalm 103:12, and especially a passage that beautifully illustrates the whole concept of repentance and forgiveness – the Parable of the Prodigal Son as revealed by Jesus in Luke 15:11-32. Do any of you see yourselves there?
Ultimately, our study was all about what it means to get “right” with God. Having a right relationship with our Lord begins with acknowledging (admitting) our sin, a humble confession (repentance) of that sin, and a determination to truly turn (forsake) sin and make Christ first in our lives (only by God’s grace and the power of the Holy Spirit is this truly possible). Being right with God is ultimately YOUR response to what God has done on your behalf. He sent the Savior, He provided the sacrifice to pay for your sin (John 1:29), and He offers you the ultimate promise: Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (Acts 2:21).
Finally, as it relates to us in law enforcement, we must again accept that there is NOTHING we can do on our own to "earn" God's grace, love and salvation. God's word is clear that we can NEVER be "good enough" or "do" enough to "deserve" salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9). Rather, we must admit that, just like those we serve, we can only come to Christ on His terms and His terms alone.
Are YOU right with God today? Have you repented and received God’s forgiveness? If not, I encourage you to do so now. Go to the left side of this page, scroll down, and click on the two links under the heading, Are you a TRUE Christian (How to be RIGHT with God). Take the “good person” test (Are you?) and then go to the “How to know Christ as Savior” link. If you already know Christ as Savior but have not been living for Him, then I also encourage you to repent and turn back to Him today.
The latest updated local meeting schedule and prayer requests have been posted on our website below this one. Take note that there will be NO MEETING on October 14th! As such, I’m encouraging our “locals” to consider attending Calvary South Denver’s unique and uplifting Tuesday night service where I also serve. Entitled “Tuesday Night Dialogue” (the “dialogue” being with God) or “TND” for short, we feature outstanding worship music, great fellowship and inspired teaching of God’s word by Pastor Sam Park. Those who have heard my own profession-relevant teaching on Samson from the Book of Judges (chapters 13-16) are in for a treat as Sam is about to start a very in-depth look at this oft-misunderstood and extremely important passage of Scripture. Several of the officers who attend our local Centurion fellowship (essentially a FCPO chapter) also attend TND so it is a very “cop friendly” group and the atmosphere is anything but what some might think of as a “standard” church service. Note that new attendees can also enjoy the after-service buffet for FREE! Invite your spouse and join us.
October 7th Meeting Reminder:
This week (10/17, 7 PM, Calvary South Denver, Littleton, CO) our own Mark Roggeman, a Denver PD veteran with nearly forty years "on the job" who is also considered something of an expert on cults and false teaching, will give a special presentation on the Mormon faith. Invite a friend/colleague and join us as we learn how to best come alongside and share true Christianity with those – including many of our fellow officers -- who have been led astray by the many false doctrines associated with the Latter Day Saints (LDS) -- commonly referred to a the Mormons. Spouses are both welcome and encouraged to attend.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
(1) As a reminder, this outreach is aligned and associated with the national Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO). Please check the FCPO website (http://www.fcpo.org/) for more on what we are doing nationwide.
(2) Baptism Event! If you’re an officer who has accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior but have never been baptized, I’m working with Calvary South Denver to make that happen. Stay tuned as I’ll share more details as I have them. We are currently looking at the November time frame.
(3) Arkansas (pronounced “Are Kansas” or “Ark City” for short – not like the state of Arkansas) City Police Chief and fellow FCPO Board Member Sean Wallace shared the following about the good work his team is doing to be proactive and better prepared to effectively deal with Amber Alert scenarios. The Cowley County Child Abduction Response Team, or CART, is one of only ten in the nation and the first of its kind in Kansas. Their recent joint training operation was very successful andwell-received. See http://www.kake.com/home/headlines/104176104.html for more. I’ve posted Sean’s contact info below – this is something we should be doing in everywhere!
Chief Sean Wallace
Arkansas City Police Department
117 W. Central Ave.
Arkansas City, KS. 67005
620-441-4447 (Office)
620-441-3767 (Cell)
620-442-1410 (FAX)
FBI NA Session 222
(4) Chicago PD Officer Densey Cole in the news! Please continue to pray for Densey (spiritual and physical). Densey was recently here in Denver for several weeks before returning home for the benefit described in the article. http://www.policeone.com/police-heroes/articles/2749621-Wheelchair-bound-cop-gets-help-from-his-friends/.
That’s it for this week. Don't forget to check the website frequently for new announcements and prayer requests. Let’s stay the course and finish strong out there!
We had a full house at last week’s meeting of our local fellowship here in Denver. My message centered on the oft-misunderstood but essential biblical concepts of true repentance and real forgiveness. Here’s the RECAP for all those who could not attend or reside outside the Denver-metro area:
STUDY RECAP: True Repentance, Real Forgiveness
True biblical REPENTANCE is not just being “sorry” for having offended God. The Hebrew word for “repent” is shub, and literally means to “turn back” or “turn around;” a complete change in direction akin to a receding flood. The Greek word for “repentance” is metanoia and denotes a “change of mind” along with remorse for sin accompanied by turning away from our that sin and towards God for salvation. True repentance thefore includes not only sorrow but also a complete turnaround: to change one’s mind about sin, receive God’s provision of salvation, and giving oneself completely to Him. Ezekiel 14:2 says, Thus says the Lord GOD: “Repent, turn away from your idols, and turn your faces away from all your abominations.” In Judges 10:10-16, the people of Israel acknowledge (admit) their sin in an attitude of true repentance and God lovingly responded. Teaching on this passage, my pastor, Sam Park, noted that true repentance ALWAYS results in God’s grace and mercy – that our loving Father looks at the heart – a heart totally surrendered to Him. True repentance also means admitting that nothing we do on our own -- including what we do as officers, can "earn" us forgiveness and salvation. That said, the Bible – God’s inerrant, breathed word, reveals that genuine repentance will necessarily result in a change of actions (Luke 3:8-14, Acts 3:19). Acts 26:20 declares, I preached that they should repent, turn to God, and do works befitting repentance. In short, the full biblical definition of true repentance is a change of mind that results in a change of action (evidence). See also Matthew 3:8, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Galatians 5:19-23, and James 2:14-26.
Understand that repentance goes hand-in-hand with FORGIVENESS and ultimately our salvation. Again, God will ALWAYS forgive those who come to Him in an attitude of true repentance. 1 John 1:9 tells us, if we confess our sins, He (God) is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. See also Psalm 51 (esp. v. 17), Psalm 103:12, and especially a passage that beautifully illustrates the whole concept of repentance and forgiveness – the Parable of the Prodigal Son as revealed by Jesus in Luke 15:11-32. Do any of you see yourselves there?
Ultimately, our study was all about what it means to get “right” with God. Having a right relationship with our Lord begins with acknowledging (admitting) our sin, a humble confession (repentance) of that sin, and a determination to truly turn (forsake) sin and make Christ first in our lives (only by God’s grace and the power of the Holy Spirit is this truly possible). Being right with God is ultimately YOUR response to what God has done on your behalf. He sent the Savior, He provided the sacrifice to pay for your sin (John 1:29), and He offers you the ultimate promise: Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved (Acts 2:21).
Finally, as it relates to us in law enforcement, we must again accept that there is NOTHING we can do on our own to "earn" God's grace, love and salvation. God's word is clear that we can NEVER be "good enough" or "do" enough to "deserve" salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9). Rather, we must admit that, just like those we serve, we can only come to Christ on His terms and His terms alone.
Are YOU right with God today? Have you repented and received God’s forgiveness? If not, I encourage you to do so now. Go to the left side of this page, scroll down, and click on the two links under the heading, Are you a TRUE Christian (How to be RIGHT with God). Take the “good person” test (Are you?) and then go to the “How to know Christ as Savior” link. If you already know Christ as Savior but have not been living for Him, then I also encourage you to repent and turn back to Him today.
The latest updated local meeting schedule and prayer requests have been posted on our website below this one. Take note that there will be NO MEETING on October 14th! As such, I’m encouraging our “locals” to consider attending Calvary South Denver’s unique and uplifting Tuesday night service where I also serve. Entitled “Tuesday Night Dialogue” (the “dialogue” being with God) or “TND” for short, we feature outstanding worship music, great fellowship and inspired teaching of God’s word by Pastor Sam Park. Those who have heard my own profession-relevant teaching on Samson from the Book of Judges (chapters 13-16) are in for a treat as Sam is about to start a very in-depth look at this oft-misunderstood and extremely important passage of Scripture. Several of the officers who attend our local Centurion fellowship (essentially a FCPO chapter) also attend TND so it is a very “cop friendly” group and the atmosphere is anything but what some might think of as a “standard” church service. Note that new attendees can also enjoy the after-service buffet for FREE! Invite your spouse and join us.
October 7th Meeting Reminder:
This week (10/17, 7 PM, Calvary South Denver, Littleton, CO) our own Mark Roggeman, a Denver PD veteran with nearly forty years "on the job" who is also considered something of an expert on cults and false teaching, will give a special presentation on the Mormon faith. Invite a friend/colleague and join us as we learn how to best come alongside and share true Christianity with those – including many of our fellow officers -- who have been led astray by the many false doctrines associated with the Latter Day Saints (LDS) -- commonly referred to a the Mormons. Spouses are both welcome and encouraged to attend.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
(1) As a reminder, this outreach is aligned and associated with the national Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO). Please check the FCPO website (http://www.fcpo.org/) for more on what we are doing nationwide.
(2) Baptism Event! If you’re an officer who has accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior but have never been baptized, I’m working with Calvary South Denver to make that happen. Stay tuned as I’ll share more details as I have them. We are currently looking at the November time frame.
(3) Arkansas (pronounced “Are Kansas” or “Ark City” for short – not like the state of Arkansas) City Police Chief and fellow FCPO Board Member Sean Wallace shared the following about the good work his team is doing to be proactive and better prepared to effectively deal with Amber Alert scenarios. The Cowley County Child Abduction Response Team, or CART, is one of only ten in the nation and the first of its kind in Kansas. Their recent joint training operation was very successful andwell-received. See http://www.kake.com/home/headlines/104176104.html for more. I’ve posted Sean’s contact info below – this is something we should be doing in everywhere!
Chief Sean Wallace
Arkansas City Police Department
117 W. Central Ave.
Arkansas City, KS. 67005
620-441-4447 (Office)
620-441-3767 (Cell)
620-442-1410 (FAX)
FBI NA Session 222
(4) Chicago PD Officer Densey Cole in the news! Please continue to pray for Densey (spiritual and physical). Densey was recently here in Denver for several weeks before returning home for the benefit described in the article. http://www.policeone.com/police-heroes/articles/2749621-Wheelchair-bound-cop-gets-help-from-his-friends/.
That’s it for this week. Don't forget to check the website frequently for new announcements and prayer requests. Let’s stay the course and finish strong out there!
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Samson -- A Lack of Integrity in Leadership
UPDATED 02/22/10
Dear Fellow Servant-Leaders:
I’m making an attempt to get the newsletter out a little early this week – hope it helps.
First off, we had a really great meeting last Thursday as we finished our study on the importance of credibility and compassion in leadership. In addition, our worship leader -- officer candidate Matt Wallenburg -- is back to open our meetings with some outstanding worship music (You are a true blessing, Bro!).
Here is the recap for all those outside our little section of the world:
Fairman, in his “Leadership Lessons from God” series, cites four critical leadership responsibilities: shepherding, stewardship, vision, and servanthood (see http://www.rayfairman.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=60&Itemid=9). In turn, I expanded on those key responsibilities and provided biblical support for each, as follows:
(1) Shepherding: As anyone who reads my posts or hears me speak knows, I’m a huge proponent of Lt. Col. Dave Grossman and his outstanding “sheepdog” analogy as it relates to the military and law enforcement (see http://www.killology.com/sheep_dog.htm). When it comes to godly leadership, however, we really need to have an understanding of what that similitude looks like. Yes, we (LEO’s) are indeed “sheepdogs.” But what do sheepdogs do in terms of the sheep? They usually “lead” and serve from the rear: they herd/push the sheep and keep/protect them from going astray. Yes, there is leadership there but ultimately both the sheep and the sheepdogs follow and are under the authority and leadership of the shepherd. Biblically speaking, the shepherd knows, feeds, protects, teaches, guides and loves both sheep and sheepdogs alike. Christ is clearly our ultimate role model of THE Shepherd. Instead of driving the sheep as the sheepdog does, the shepherd LEADS from the FRONT. See Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34: 1-23, and 1 Peter 5:2-3.
(2) Stewardship: Our focus here should be on developing dependability, fidelity, accountability and HUMILITY. See Luke 24:22-27.
(3) Vision: A true leader must have clear vision and be able to communicate that vision to both those they lead AND those they themselves follow. Nehemiah (Nehemiah 1; 4:16; 5:14-15) and Joseph (Genesis 39-41; 41:16 and 38) displayed visionary leadership – and they were followed because of that vision. Proverbs 29:18 tells us, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.”
(4) Servanthood: I’ve touched on this many times in the past but, in brief, God is calling us to lead with a servant’s heart (servant-leadership). See John 13; Philippians 2:3-11; and Isaiah 53.
So what kind of leader are you? Do you know anyone who fits this biblical model in your agency? One great example I know of is fellow FCPO board member and Arkansas City, Kansas Chief of Police Sean Wallace. Outstanding behavior!
UPDATE 02/22/10: Speaking of Sean, please keep his wife Robin in prayer as she was rushed to the hospital early this morning due to a heart condition.
This Thursday (2/25, 1900 hours, Room 7, Calvary South Denver, Littleton), we’ll take a look at the subject of "Integrity in Leadership" via an example of what NOT to do: truly poor leadership in the person of Samson. Please join us for great worship music, fellowship, profession-relevant Bible study and prayer. Our meetings are a great example of iron sharpening iron (Proverbs 27:17).
BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:
I get regular quesions about Bible study resources. Most know that I’m a big fan of http://www.gotquestions.org/ but here are two additional recommended resources (both are listed in the LINKS section on the left side of this page):
(1) http://www.biblestudytools.com/
(2) http://www.blueletterbible.org/ (outstanding online Bible).
DEPUTY CHRIS DEWEY’S DEPARTURE UPDATE:
As many are aware, Mahnomen County Deputy Chris Dewey was shot and left for dead one year ago last week (February 18th) and spent the ensuing eleven-plus months undergoing eleven surgeries and ongoing rehab here in Englewood. Chris is finally headed home to Minnesota and his wife Emily announced that they will leave this coming Tuesday (2/23) at 1000. I spent some time with Chris, Emily, and Ross (Em’s Dad) on Friday and prayed with them in person for the last time before they depart.
In addition, Denver PD Ofc. Danny Veith sent out the following:
As many of you are already aware, Chris arrived at Craig Hospital (Englewood, CO) on March 5, 2009 for the interdisciplinary Traumatic Brain Injury Program to address the multiple gunshot wounds he sustained.
I received confirmation this morning that Chris will return home next Tuesday, February 23rd. An ambulance is scheduled to depart from Craig for Centennial Airport at 10:30 AM.
We are hoping the Denver area law enforcement community will come out to Craig Hospital next Tuesday, at 0930 AM, to bid farewell to Chris and Emily. We are also planning an escort from Craig Hospital (3425 S. Clarkson Street) to Centennial Airport. Officers in marked patrol vehicles are encouraged to participate (parking will be made available on S. Clarkson Street).
Upon arriving back in Minnesota, Chris will continue rehabilitation as he transitions from a hospital environment to his home. Though this was a line-of-duty injury, workman’s comp does not pay for all of Chris and Emily’s needs. Please consider a donation which can be made at any Wells Fargo Bank - the “Deputy Chris Dewey Donation Account.”
For those of you who want to learn more about Chris, post a comment of encouragement and support, or follow his journey as he continues to rehab in Minnesota, please visit his Caring Bridge site at: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/chrisdewey
Please consider participating in this send off next Tuesday for one of our brother officers! If you have any questions, I can be contacted at 720-641-0208 or danny.veith@denvergov.org - Thank You!
Please continue to keep Chris, Emily and their families in prayer – and join us on Tuesday if you can.
UPDATE ON ERV MEYER:
I was finally able to reach Erv today and he told me that he is “staying the course” while working on his health and spending the winter in Arizona. Erv asked me to tell everyone that they are missed and that he is looking forward to being back with us in April.
SOCIAL NETWORK FOR CHRISTIAN COPS:
In addition to selected Police Pulse (http://www.policepulse.com/) pages and some areas on http://www.policelink.com/, check out this new social network for Christian officers: http://copsoffaithministries.ning.com/. We’ve already got our page started: http://copsoffaithministries.ning.com/profile/MCWilliams. That said, and while these are much better choices for us than Facebook (I've discontinued our pages) and My Space, let’s be VERY careful about what is posted.
PRAYER REQUESTS (Updated 2/22/10):
(1) Please pray for former Chicago PD Ofc. Louise Cole, mother of wounded Chicago PD Ofc. Densey Cole. Louise sent me the following:
I just came home from being in the hospital for the past 7 days. I have a tumor in my neck (left side) going up to the base of the skull by the artery. I have to make some major decisions soon & only God can lead me in the right direction. He spared my life this past week for sure.
(2) Speaking of Chicago: please be in prayer for the family and colleagues of the CPD sergeant who was killed there early this AM whilst en route to a burglary call (see http://www.chicagobreakingnews.com/2010/02/accident-closes-southbound-lanes-of-lake-shore.html). Retired CPD Lt. Chuck Urgo writes, "Chicago Police Sgt. Al Haymaker was a fine officer and brother in Christ. Please keep his family and co-workers in your prayers."
(3) Speaking of poor leadership in law enforcement, a Federal officer in NM has asked for prayer concerning how that issue is impacting her current and future career decisions.
(4) Be in prayer for the officers and staff of the Grand Junction (CO) Police Department (a number of departmental and personal issues). They have an outstanding new chief whom I hope will provide godly leadership. In addition, pray for those officers and staff who are considering starting their own Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO) chapter. I’m also pushing for GJPD to start a chaplain program.
(5) As posted above, Chief Sean Wallace (Arkansas City, KS) called this morning asking for prayer for his wife. Robin has been rushed to the hospital due to a heart problem.
(6) Finally, keep me in prayer as I lead this ministry and prepare to teach/preach at a retreat conference in Glen Eyrie next month.
Hope to see you Thursday. In the interim, let’s stay the course and finish strong out there!
Dear Fellow Servant-Leaders:
I’m making an attempt to get the newsletter out a little early this week – hope it helps.
First off, we had a really great meeting last Thursday as we finished our study on the importance of credibility and compassion in leadership. In addition, our worship leader -- officer candidate Matt Wallenburg -- is back to open our meetings with some outstanding worship music (You are a true blessing, Bro!).
Here is the recap for all those outside our little section of the world:
Fairman, in his “Leadership Lessons from God” series, cites four critical leadership responsibilities: shepherding, stewardship, vision, and servanthood (see http://www.rayfairman.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=60&Itemid=9). In turn, I expanded on those key responsibilities and provided biblical support for each, as follows:
(1) Shepherding: As anyone who reads my posts or hears me speak knows, I’m a huge proponent of Lt. Col. Dave Grossman and his outstanding “sheepdog” analogy as it relates to the military and law enforcement (see http://www.killology.com/sheep_dog.htm). When it comes to godly leadership, however, we really need to have an understanding of what that similitude looks like. Yes, we (LEO’s) are indeed “sheepdogs.” But what do sheepdogs do in terms of the sheep? They usually “lead” and serve from the rear: they herd/push the sheep and keep/protect them from going astray. Yes, there is leadership there but ultimately both the sheep and the sheepdogs follow and are under the authority and leadership of the shepherd. Biblically speaking, the shepherd knows, feeds, protects, teaches, guides and loves both sheep and sheepdogs alike. Christ is clearly our ultimate role model of THE Shepherd. Instead of driving the sheep as the sheepdog does, the shepherd LEADS from the FRONT. See Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34: 1-23, and 1 Peter 5:2-3.
(2) Stewardship: Our focus here should be on developing dependability, fidelity, accountability and HUMILITY. See Luke 24:22-27.
(3) Vision: A true leader must have clear vision and be able to communicate that vision to both those they lead AND those they themselves follow. Nehemiah (Nehemiah 1; 4:16; 5:14-15) and Joseph (Genesis 39-41; 41:16 and 38) displayed visionary leadership – and they were followed because of that vision. Proverbs 29:18 tells us, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.”
(4) Servanthood: I’ve touched on this many times in the past but, in brief, God is calling us to lead with a servant’s heart (servant-leadership). See John 13; Philippians 2:3-11; and Isaiah 53.
So what kind of leader are you? Do you know anyone who fits this biblical model in your agency? One great example I know of is fellow FCPO board member and Arkansas City, Kansas Chief of Police Sean Wallace. Outstanding behavior!
UPDATE 02/22/10: Speaking of Sean, please keep his wife Robin in prayer as she was rushed to the hospital early this morning due to a heart condition.
This Thursday (2/25, 1900 hours, Room 7, Calvary South Denver, Littleton), we’ll take a look at the subject of "Integrity in Leadership" via an example of what NOT to do: truly poor leadership in the person of Samson. Please join us for great worship music, fellowship, profession-relevant Bible study and prayer. Our meetings are a great example of iron sharpening iron (Proverbs 27:17).
BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:
I get regular quesions about Bible study resources. Most know that I’m a big fan of http://www.gotquestions.org/ but here are two additional recommended resources (both are listed in the LINKS section on the left side of this page):
(1) http://www.biblestudytools.com/
(2) http://www.blueletterbible.org/ (outstanding online Bible).
DEPUTY CHRIS DEWEY’S DEPARTURE UPDATE:
As many are aware, Mahnomen County Deputy Chris Dewey was shot and left for dead one year ago last week (February 18th) and spent the ensuing eleven-plus months undergoing eleven surgeries and ongoing rehab here in Englewood. Chris is finally headed home to Minnesota and his wife Emily announced that they will leave this coming Tuesday (2/23) at 1000. I spent some time with Chris, Emily, and Ross (Em’s Dad) on Friday and prayed with them in person for the last time before they depart.
In addition, Denver PD Ofc. Danny Veith sent out the following:
As many of you are already aware, Chris arrived at Craig Hospital (Englewood, CO) on March 5, 2009 for the interdisciplinary Traumatic Brain Injury Program to address the multiple gunshot wounds he sustained.
I received confirmation this morning that Chris will return home next Tuesday, February 23rd. An ambulance is scheduled to depart from Craig for Centennial Airport at 10:30 AM.
We are hoping the Denver area law enforcement community will come out to Craig Hospital next Tuesday, at 0930 AM, to bid farewell to Chris and Emily. We are also planning an escort from Craig Hospital (3425 S. Clarkson Street) to Centennial Airport. Officers in marked patrol vehicles are encouraged to participate (parking will be made available on S. Clarkson Street).
Upon arriving back in Minnesota, Chris will continue rehabilitation as he transitions from a hospital environment to his home. Though this was a line-of-duty injury, workman’s comp does not pay for all of Chris and Emily’s needs. Please consider a donation which can be made at any Wells Fargo Bank - the “Deputy Chris Dewey Donation Account.”
For those of you who want to learn more about Chris, post a comment of encouragement and support, or follow his journey as he continues to rehab in Minnesota, please visit his Caring Bridge site at: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/chrisdewey
Please consider participating in this send off next Tuesday for one of our brother officers! If you have any questions, I can be contacted at 720-641-0208 or danny.veith@denvergov.org - Thank You!
Please continue to keep Chris, Emily and their families in prayer – and join us on Tuesday if you can.
UPDATE ON ERV MEYER:
I was finally able to reach Erv today and he told me that he is “staying the course” while working on his health and spending the winter in Arizona. Erv asked me to tell everyone that they are missed and that he is looking forward to being back with us in April.
SOCIAL NETWORK FOR CHRISTIAN COPS:
In addition to selected Police Pulse (http://www.policepulse.com/) pages and some areas on http://www.policelink.com/, check out this new social network for Christian officers: http://copsoffaithministries.ning.com/. We’ve already got our page started: http://copsoffaithministries.ning.com/profile/MCWilliams. That said, and while these are much better choices for us than Facebook (I've discontinued our pages) and My Space, let’s be VERY careful about what is posted.
PRAYER REQUESTS (Updated 2/22/10):
(1) Please pray for former Chicago PD Ofc. Louise Cole, mother of wounded Chicago PD Ofc. Densey Cole. Louise sent me the following:
I just came home from being in the hospital for the past 7 days. I have a tumor in my neck (left side) going up to the base of the skull by the artery. I have to make some major decisions soon & only God can lead me in the right direction. He spared my life this past week for sure.
(2) Speaking of Chicago: please be in prayer for the family and colleagues of the CPD sergeant who was killed there early this AM whilst en route to a burglary call (see http://www.chicagobreakingnews.com/2010/02/accident-closes-southbound-lanes-of-lake-shore.html). Retired CPD Lt. Chuck Urgo writes, "Chicago Police Sgt. Al Haymaker was a fine officer and brother in Christ. Please keep his family and co-workers in your prayers."
(3) Speaking of poor leadership in law enforcement, a Federal officer in NM has asked for prayer concerning how that issue is impacting her current and future career decisions.
(4) Be in prayer for the officers and staff of the Grand Junction (CO) Police Department (a number of departmental and personal issues). They have an outstanding new chief whom I hope will provide godly leadership. In addition, pray for those officers and staff who are considering starting their own Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO) chapter. I’m also pushing for GJPD to start a chaplain program.
(5) As posted above, Chief Sean Wallace (Arkansas City, KS) called this morning asking for prayer for his wife. Robin has been rushed to the hospital due to a heart problem.
(6) Finally, keep me in prayer as I lead this ministry and prepare to teach/preach at a retreat conference in Glen Eyrie next month.
Hope to see you Thursday. In the interim, let’s stay the course and finish strong out there!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
