Recently retired Denver PD Officer and partner-in-ministry Mark Roggeman has his new website up and running. I've added www.peaceofficersforchristcolorado.com/ to our website (scroll down left side). Mark is also doing a great job on Facebook (see https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/136309447633/).
On that note, Mark added some outstanding scripture and comments to my study recap on Uzziah (posted earlier today here on this site -- scroll down) that I'd like to share with you here: go to www.peaceofficersforchristcolorado.com/notes-from-leo-bible-study.html.
Great job Mark!!
Showing posts with label Mark Roggeman. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mark Roggeman. Show all posts
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Thursday, June 16, 2011
New Prayer Requests, Announcements and More...
PRAYER REQUESTS (updated 06/23/2011)
** Continue to pray for retired Denver PD officer and current chaplain and pastor Manny Hays and his bride Angie who is battleing a very aggressive form of liver cancer and is awaiting a life-saving transplant. Both Manny and Angie are mighty in the Lord!
** Speaking of Manny, he writes, Please pray for my daughter Rene' as she is having complications in her pregnancy. She has been told that she may have to have a C-section due to the complications. If she doesn't get better by this afternoon she will be admitted to the hospital. Pray for her and the baby and for the guidance of the Doctors.
In Christ
Manny
** The wife of an Abilene officer has had a heart attack (survived, praise God). Please keep her in prayer.
** An officer's wife is being considered for a teaching post -- please pray for God's favor and will. She needs a job in general but has the call to teach.
** I'm once again asking prayer for little Elizabeth Jetton, her mother Sheila (a Chattanooga TN PD officer) and husband Matt. See www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethjetton for the latest. There is room here for both praise and continued prayer. Please consider leaving them a note of encouragement as well.
** UPDATE! Retired DPD Officer and long-time Colorado POFCI Diretor Mark Roggeman was heading to Utah on a missionary outreach trip to the Mormons but that has been cancelled because his wife Rosalie fell and broke both of her feet. She underwent surgery which went well but she is also a diabetic and as such there is a very high chance for infection. PLEASE PRAY!
** PRAISE REPORT from Chaplain Grant Wolf in TN:
After two days in the hospital and many tests, the doctors found nothing significantly wrong with our daughter-in-law other than elevated blood pressure. Because of what happened, time of day (early morning), etc. they are pretty certain it was a mild seizure, perhaps aggravated by stress. Thank you again for praying. It was a worrisome time for all the family, especially their two young children.
** Law Enforcement National Day of Prayer is this Friday, June 17th from 0900-1200. See www.facebook.com/home.php#!/event.php?eid=214391271922124
** Pray for a MN officer and his wife reference marriage difficulties.
** See following post ref. Trooper Scott Hinshaw!
SEE THE JUNE 14TH POST BELOW FOR MORE!
** Continue to pray for retired Denver PD officer and current chaplain and pastor Manny Hays and his bride Angie who is battleing a very aggressive form of liver cancer and is awaiting a life-saving transplant. Both Manny and Angie are mighty in the Lord!
** Speaking of Manny, he writes, Please pray for my daughter Rene' as she is having complications in her pregnancy. She has been told that she may have to have a C-section due to the complications. If she doesn't get better by this afternoon she will be admitted to the hospital. Pray for her and the baby and for the guidance of the Doctors.
In Christ
Manny
** The wife of an Abilene officer has had a heart attack (survived, praise God). Please keep her in prayer.
** An officer's wife is being considered for a teaching post -- please pray for God's favor and will. She needs a job in general but has the call to teach.
** I'm once again asking prayer for little Elizabeth Jetton, her mother Sheila (a Chattanooga TN PD officer) and husband Matt. See www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethjetton for the latest. There is room here for both praise and continued prayer. Please consider leaving them a note of encouragement as well.
** UPDATE! Retired DPD Officer and long-time Colorado POFCI Diretor Mark Roggeman was heading to Utah on a missionary outreach trip to the Mormons but that has been cancelled because his wife Rosalie fell and broke both of her feet. She underwent surgery which went well but she is also a diabetic and as such there is a very high chance for infection. PLEASE PRAY!
** PRAISE REPORT from Chaplain Grant Wolf in TN:
After two days in the hospital and many tests, the doctors found nothing significantly wrong with our daughter-in-law other than elevated blood pressure. Because of what happened, time of day (early morning), etc. they are pretty certain it was a mild seizure, perhaps aggravated by stress. Thank you again for praying. It was a worrisome time for all the family, especially their two young children.
** Law Enforcement National Day of Prayer is this Friday, June 17th from 0900-1200. See www.facebook.com/home.php#!/event.php?eid=214391271922124
** Pray for a MN officer and his wife reference marriage difficulties.
** See following post ref. Trooper Scott Hinshaw!
SEE THE JUNE 14TH POST BELOW FOR MORE!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Prayer Requests and FCPO-Denver Meeting Schedule
PRAYER REQUESTS (updated 04/01/2011):
** From Ret. WV State Police/Rev. Ronald Jones: My granddaughter, Dakota, 2 yoa, is hospitilized in FL with a very serious staff infection in both ears, she has not responded to treatment at this point. Please keep her in prayer.
** Michelle Jones sends the following: I'm requesting prayer for my youngest son Brent. He and his girlfriend, that he had a little girl with, have split because of emotional problems on her end. She's had alcohol problems and heavy spiritual issues as well. She is on the run with my granddaughter (5 mos.) and he is beside himself. He is a newly committed Christian and knows he messed up and is heart broken. Pray he will let God do His work in him and that Amber (his girlfriend) will see that everything she is looking for is found in Jesus. Also, protection and covering on the baby.
** Pray for Park Co. Dep. DJ Hannigan who was injured by a suspect tonight. Injuries likely not serious but very painful. Suspect is in jail and was charged accordingly.
** Pray for a Federal agent and his wife as they go to court tomorrow at 1500 hours CMT seeking to adopt two children. God's will and protection for the children.
UPDATE 03/30/2011: Our loving and gracious Lord has answered our prayers!! Todd and Amy are now officially the adopted parents of two precious children. Praise God! Todd writes, We just wanted to thank everyone who has been praying for us and reassuring us during this long adoption process. We have felt the results of your continued prayers and Gods presents. It is right at one year since we started the lengthy process. Through many delays in background checks with CBI and the FBI, home studies, several court continuances and painful testimony of untruths from the opposition we are finally able to say we have concluded the adoption process. On March 28th, 2011 the judge signed the papers granting us the adoptive parents of Taeja and Keelee. Although they have been with us nearly five years now we are truly comforted knowing they will be raised in our home. Praise be to God. Please join us in Spiritual celebration by thanking the Lord Almighty. In Him, Todd, Amy, Gracie, Hannah, Taeja and Keelee.
** Update on Keith Adams (see updated 3/9/2011 post): Keith writes, This past week I got the results from my 6 month follow up tests from my stem cell transplant and the doctors could not find any sign of cancer in my blood, bones or marrow! they told me I was in 100% full remission, praise God!! I still have damage in my bones from the effects of the cancer but that is the least of my concerns. I wanted to share that with you and just simply say thank you, thank you for sharing my prayer requests with fellow officers as I received numerous e-mails from all over! Keith (You can reach Keith at keithwadams@gmail.com)
Praise God indeed!
** From a brother in CA: Please lift up in prayer San Diego Ca. Motor Officer Bruce Byrd. He was involved in a traffic collision Wednesday morning and rushed to the hospital. Condition unknown. May the Lord be with him, his family and police family.
** From a colleague in New Mexico: Please pray for Los Lunas NM Police Sergeant Robert Ferreyra, who was involved in a fatal police shooting on Wednesday, 29 March. May the Lord comfort him, sustain him and grant him peace which is beyond human understanding. May the Lord assure him that we do not bear the sword in vain. And let us pray for the family and friends of the deceased suspect. Grant them comfort and understanding.
** Please pray for Gulfport PD Chief Alan Weatherford and his family ref. the death of his daughter at the hands of a drunk driver. See http://www.lawofficer.com/article/news/gulfport-police-chiefs-daughte.
** A Park County (CO) deputy sends the following: "Please pray right now for Bryan and Ann in Indian Hills. They lost their 17 year-old son on the 23rd of March. The family are believers."
** Retired Denver PD Ofc. Mark Roggeman sends the following and I join him in this prayer request. Morale at DPD is at an all-time low with officers either afraid to do their jobs out of fear of termination or they are refusing to respond to calls. Both are untenable and this is an issue of leadership -- the LACK of it. Much more to the story(s) than what some may have seen in the media. Mark writes, "I just found out that Whitman Fired both the officers involved in the event I talked about last night - today Randy Murr and Devin Sparks. Pray for these guys, put it out on your list please. Randy has a medical condition and needs his insurance which ends today. Officer are going to set up an account. It is hard to do your job right this day and age no support from the people or the chief."
________________
FCPO-Denver Meeting Schedule:
-- Thursday, March 31st, 7:00 PM, Calvary South Denver (http://www.calvarycsd.org/) in the High School Room -- last room on the right all the way past the main sanctuary.
-- Thursday, April 7th: NO MEETING as I'll be in Tulsa on the 7th with Travis Yates and Col. Dave Grossman. I will then be returning the following day to join quite a few of you for our annual Tuesday Night Dialogue retreat in Estes Park on April 8th-10th. The theme for this year's retreat is Obedience (a great in-depth follow-up to my teaching on that subject -- see last week's recap here on the website).
-- Friday, April 15th at Calvary Chapel AURORA (http://www.calvaryaurora.org/) starting at 7:00 PM in Room 144. Investigator James "Jimmy" Wattles (noted outlaw motorcycle gang expert and featured on the History Channel's Gangland series) will be teaching a special message. More details to follow -- stay tuned!
-- Thursday, April 21st, 7:00 PM, Calvary South Denver in Littleton. There is a possibility that Colorado State Trooper Scott Hinshaw will be our very special guest speaker. Scott has come a long way since being critically injured in October of 2007 and his recovery is nothing short of a miracle. Stay tuned for further details!
-- Thursday, April 28th, 7:00 PM at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. This will be our chartering event for FCPO-Denver and Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers National Executive Director Lamar Moore will be our very special guest speaker. Please make a point of joining us for a free (well, for you guys) catered meal and more. Stay tuned for additional details!
Friday, October 29, 2010
Updated (Nov. 3rd) Prayer Requests & Meeting Schedule
Updated (Nov. 3rd) PRAYER REQUESTS & PRAISE REPORTs:
-- Be in prayer for a CO Western Slope officer who is facing surgery to repair a damaged shoulder.
-- Another officer is struggling with an infection pursuant to a very complex shoulder surgery -- pray for complete healing and restoration. It is a job-related injurey.
-- PRAISE Report! The bogus Virgin Islands murder charge against ATF Special Agent Will Clark has been dismissed (should never have been filed)! Praise God indeed! Thanks to all who have been praying. http://www.policemag.com/Channel/Patrol/News/2010/10/28/Case-Dismissed-Against-ATF-Agent-Tried-for-Murder-In-Virgin-Islands.aspx.
-- PRAISE Report! From Robert Dahl in Oregon:
I asked for prayer last week for the newborn baby of a fellow officer here in Oregon! I have a wonderful praise report to share from Mom’s Facebook post, and want to ask that we all continue to cover this little angel and his family!
From Mom:
"So......They found out the bacteria that was in Ryker's system is Ecoli. What I'm about to type doesn't even make sense, & the Dr's have no explination for it. Once they found the infection, the very minute PRIOR to starting him on anitbiotics, they did another blood draw. They sent it to the lab to see if it would grow more cultures then the one the night before. It grew nothing. My little 22 day old miracle baby fought off Ecoli infection all by himself! The Dr. couldn't explain it, so the only other think I can thing of, is that we got the miracle we asked for. Thank you all :)."
The awesome power of prayer! Praise God, from whom all blessings flow!!! Pleaese continue to pray for this child and her parents as they are still looking at another 4-6 weeks before discharge.
-- Another praise and ongoing prayer request sent by Paul Lee in Chattanooga (TN):
Here is he latest praise update on Little Elizabeth Jetton. Please keep the Jetton family in your prayers. Just a word of encouragement to all of you: I talked with Matt the other day and he said they were so surprised and encouraged by all the notes from cops all over the country and even some from other countries. Thank you all for praying and for encouraging the Jetton family. Take time today to send them another note on Elizabeth's guest book.
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethjetton
-- Be in prayer for a colleague in Grand Junction who may once again be battleing cancer (healing, clean scan, etc.). Pray also for an abundance of strength and grace to stay the course!
-- Pray for the family and colleagues of Bernallilo Co. (NM) Sheriff's Deputy Dean Miera
who went down "in the line" in Albuquerque yesterday. I had the honor of working with Dean during my time in NM. Good troop and a terrible loss. For more, see http://krqe.m0bl.net/w/main/story/15350442/.
-- Our own Mark Roggeman asks that we be in pray for his wife Rosalie who is battleing Type I diabetes and is in need of a kidney transplant (healing, donor, etc.).
-- Retired DPD officer and current chaplain and pastor Manny Hays asks that we be in prayer for his wife Angie who is battleling liver cancer and needs a transplant (healing, that a liver will become available, wisdom for her doctors, and strength to stay in the fight). We love Manny and Angie so very much...let's go to God on their behalf.
-- Army vet Ron Leonard of Christian Military Fellowship (linked here on our site) writes,
On Nov. 1st at 5:05 PM (Eastern) I will have the awesome privilege to be on "Janet Parshall Live" for a 25 min. radio interview. I will be talking about the post traumatic stress syndrome, and how the body of Christ can biblically respond. Her show covers around 200 radio markets. So I would covet your prayers as I share. Pray that I will only say what the Lord wants me to say. Also pray I will be clear in telling others how they can have an eternal impact on our brave men and women in uniform!
-- Michelle asks that we pray for her husband (healing) and sons. Let's go to God on Michelle's behalf as well -- our sister has much on her plate.
-- Please keep a colleague in prayer as he battles an infection developed after a recent cancer-related surgery (healing, hope and courage).
-- Praise God for a brother whom God has granted a promotion/transfer opportunity. Pray also that this colleague will respond accordingly -- to God be the glory!
-- Pray for a police sergeant who is attempting to infuse godly leadership in his department in the face of others who display very poor leadership.
-- Pray for a colleague -- an outstanding leader -- in the Midwest who was recently terminated at the bequest of others who are in fact very poor leaders despite their high-profile status.
-- Pray for fellow FCPO board member and Arkansas City (KS) Chief Sean Wallace who is currently attending the IACP conference: that Sean will be given opportunities to share Christ and model godly leadership with other chiefs who are in desperate need of both.
-- Dennis Casida asks that we be in prayer for two friends who are both in great physical pain from illnesses.
-- Pray for a colleague who is battling some tough issues in the wake of an officer-involved shooting.
-- Inv. Jimmy Wattles sent the following:
Please pray for a retired Mesa AZ police detective who was just diagnosed and underwent surgery for melanoma stage 4 cancer. I know he is a Christian believer.
UPDATED FCPO Chapter #217 (aka "Cop Church") MEETING SCHEDULE:
-- Thursday, October 28th, 7-8:30 PM, Calvary South Denver (High School Room), 9052 W. Ken Caryl Avenue in Littleton, CO. I'll be teaching on a subject that has caused a great deal of confusion within the law enforcement and military community -- the oft-misunderstood King James Version rendering of the 6th Commandment -- "Thou shalt not kill." Does that apply to us? If not, why not? Join us Thursday and we'll dig into God's word together.
-- Tuesday, November 2nd: Samson series continues at the "Tuesday Night Dialogue" service at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. We start at 1900 hours -- please join us!
-- Thursday, November 4th. Same time/place as above.
-- Thusday, November 11th. Same time/place as above. We'll have a special Veterans Day message.
-- Thursday, November 18th. Same time/place as above.
-- THANKSGIVING Day, November 25th -- no meeting (duh).
We're planning for our first ever (1st annual) law enforcement baptism service sometime in November or December...stay tuned for more details.
** I update these announcements several times a week at least -- check back frequently.
-- Be in prayer for a CO Western Slope officer who is facing surgery to repair a damaged shoulder.
-- Another officer is struggling with an infection pursuant to a very complex shoulder surgery -- pray for complete healing and restoration. It is a job-related injurey.
-- PRAISE Report! The bogus Virgin Islands murder charge against ATF Special Agent Will Clark has been dismissed (should never have been filed)! Praise God indeed! Thanks to all who have been praying. http://www.policemag.com/Channel/Patrol/News/2010/10/28/Case-Dismissed-Against-ATF-Agent-Tried-for-Murder-In-Virgin-Islands.aspx.
-- PRAISE Report! From Robert Dahl in Oregon:
I asked for prayer last week for the newborn baby of a fellow officer here in Oregon! I have a wonderful praise report to share from Mom’s Facebook post, and want to ask that we all continue to cover this little angel and his family!
From Mom:
"So......They found out the bacteria that was in Ryker's system is Ecoli. What I'm about to type doesn't even make sense, & the Dr's have no explination for it. Once they found the infection, the very minute PRIOR to starting him on anitbiotics, they did another blood draw. They sent it to the lab to see if it would grow more cultures then the one the night before. It grew nothing. My little 22 day old miracle baby fought off Ecoli infection all by himself! The Dr. couldn't explain it, so the only other think I can thing of, is that we got the miracle we asked for. Thank you all :)."
The awesome power of prayer! Praise God, from whom all blessings flow!!! Pleaese continue to pray for this child and her parents as they are still looking at another 4-6 weeks before discharge.
-- Another praise and ongoing prayer request sent by Paul Lee in Chattanooga (TN):
Here is he latest praise update on Little Elizabeth Jetton. Please keep the Jetton family in your prayers. Just a word of encouragement to all of you: I talked with Matt the other day and he said they were so surprised and encouraged by all the notes from cops all over the country and even some from other countries. Thank you all for praying and for encouraging the Jetton family. Take time today to send them another note on Elizabeth's guest book.
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethjetton
-- Be in prayer for a colleague in Grand Junction who may once again be battleing cancer (healing, clean scan, etc.). Pray also for an abundance of strength and grace to stay the course!
-- Pray for the family and colleagues of Bernallilo Co. (NM) Sheriff's Deputy Dean Miera
who went down "in the line" in Albuquerque yesterday. I had the honor of working with Dean during my time in NM. Good troop and a terrible loss. For more, see http://krqe.m0bl.net/w/main/story/15350442/.
-- Our own Mark Roggeman asks that we be in pray for his wife Rosalie who is battleing Type I diabetes and is in need of a kidney transplant (healing, donor, etc.).
-- Retired DPD officer and current chaplain and pastor Manny Hays asks that we be in prayer for his wife Angie who is battleling liver cancer and needs a transplant (healing, that a liver will become available, wisdom for her doctors, and strength to stay in the fight). We love Manny and Angie so very much...let's go to God on their behalf.
-- Army vet Ron Leonard of Christian Military Fellowship (linked here on our site) writes,
On Nov. 1st at 5:05 PM (Eastern) I will have the awesome privilege to be on "Janet Parshall Live" for a 25 min. radio interview. I will be talking about the post traumatic stress syndrome, and how the body of Christ can biblically respond. Her show covers around 200 radio markets. So I would covet your prayers as I share. Pray that I will only say what the Lord wants me to say. Also pray I will be clear in telling others how they can have an eternal impact on our brave men and women in uniform!
-- Michelle asks that we pray for her husband (healing) and sons. Let's go to God on Michelle's behalf as well -- our sister has much on her plate.
-- Please keep a colleague in prayer as he battles an infection developed after a recent cancer-related surgery (healing, hope and courage).
-- Praise God for a brother whom God has granted a promotion/transfer opportunity. Pray also that this colleague will respond accordingly -- to God be the glory!
-- Pray for a police sergeant who is attempting to infuse godly leadership in his department in the face of others who display very poor leadership.
-- Pray for a colleague -- an outstanding leader -- in the Midwest who was recently terminated at the bequest of others who are in fact very poor leaders despite their high-profile status.
-- Pray for fellow FCPO board member and Arkansas City (KS) Chief Sean Wallace who is currently attending the IACP conference: that Sean will be given opportunities to share Christ and model godly leadership with other chiefs who are in desperate need of both.
-- Dennis Casida asks that we be in prayer for two friends who are both in great physical pain from illnesses.
-- Pray for a colleague who is battling some tough issues in the wake of an officer-involved shooting.
-- Inv. Jimmy Wattles sent the following:
Please pray for a retired Mesa AZ police detective who was just diagnosed and underwent surgery for melanoma stage 4 cancer. I know he is a Christian believer.
UPDATED FCPO Chapter #217 (aka "Cop Church") MEETING SCHEDULE:
-- Thursday, October 28th, 7-8:30 PM, Calvary South Denver (High School Room), 9052 W. Ken Caryl Avenue in Littleton, CO. I'll be teaching on a subject that has caused a great deal of confusion within the law enforcement and military community -- the oft-misunderstood King James Version rendering of the 6th Commandment -- "Thou shalt not kill." Does that apply to us? If not, why not? Join us Thursday and we'll dig into God's word together.
-- Tuesday, November 2nd: Samson series continues at the "Tuesday Night Dialogue" service at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. We start at 1900 hours -- please join us!
-- Thursday, November 4th. Same time/place as above.
-- Thusday, November 11th. Same time/place as above. We'll have a special Veterans Day message.
-- Thursday, November 18th. Same time/place as above.
-- THANKSGIVING Day, November 25th -- no meeting (duh).
We're planning for our first ever (1st annual) law enforcement baptism service sometime in November or December...stay tuned for more details.
** I update these announcements several times a week at least -- check back frequently.
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!
October Denver-Area Meeting Schedule
MEETING SCHEDULE for the Month of October:
(1) Thursday, October 7th, 2010, 7 PM, Calvary South Denver (High School Room – all the way past the main sanctuary), 9052 W Ken Caryl Ave, Littleton, CO 80128 *(call me at 720-371-1022 if you get lost). Retired DPD and cult specialist Mark Roggeman will be giving a presentation on how we can best share Christ with those lost in Mormonism (LDS) -- especially those we serve with in law enforcement.
(2) Thursday, Oct. 14th: NO MEETING!
(3) Thursday, Oct. 21st: Same time/place as #1 above.
(4) Thursday, Oct. 28th: Same time/place as #1 above.
As always, check back frequently and be sure you're on the mailing list (email me at fullarmor911@yahoo.com if you are not) for the latest announcements and updates.
(1) Thursday, October 7th, 2010, 7 PM, Calvary South Denver (High School Room – all the way past the main sanctuary), 9052 W Ken Caryl Ave, Littleton, CO 80128 *(call me at 720-371-1022 if you get lost). Retired DPD and cult specialist Mark Roggeman will be giving a presentation on how we can best share Christ with those lost in Mormonism (LDS) -- especially those we serve with in law enforcement.
(2) Thursday, Oct. 14th: NO MEETING!
(3) Thursday, Oct. 21st: Same time/place as #1 above.
(4) Thursday, Oct. 28th: Same time/place as #1 above.
As always, check back frequently and be sure you're on the mailing list (email me at fullarmor911@yahoo.com if you are not) for the latest announcements and updates.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Updated Prayer Requests and Meeting Schedule
PRAYER REQUESTS -- Updated 9/22:
-- Denver PD Officer Danny Veith is donating a kidney to a DPD Detective Ed David! How awesome is that?! Let's keep both of them in prayer. I'll have more in the upcoming newsletter, including news on how to help out. Stay tuned!
-- Retired Denver PD officer and current DPD Chaplain/Pastor Manny Hays told us today that his wife Angie has been diagnosed with liver cancer. Please join us in praying for healing and strength. Like Manny, Angie is mighty in Christ.
-- PRAISE REPORT! Retired DPD Ofc. Mark Roggeman's dad is hanging in there! Mark will be remaining in NC for a few more days to care for his parents. Please pray that his folks come to Christ while there is still time (Mark has been faithful in sharing the Gospel with them despite much resistance to same).
-- Pray for a colleague who is struggling in his marriage (wife is less than supportive). Ask God to direct his path in terms of career and family issues.
-- Pray for an investigator who is dealing with a very painful eye infection.
-- Pray for an investigator and an officer who are both testing for a promotional opportunities (God's will and direction).
-- Thanks to all who prayed for Diana and I on our Fall getaway to Lake City (CO) -- most remote county in the lower 48. Aspens were awesome -- thank you, Lord!
Please refer to the 9/14 post for additional...
UPDATED MEETING SCHEDULE (check back frequently for updates):
-- Thursday, 9/23, 7:00 PM, Calvary South Denver in Littleton (see http://www.calvarycsd.org/ for directions), in the High School Room.
-- Thursday, 9/30, same time/place as detailed above.
-- Denver PD Officer Danny Veith is donating a kidney to a DPD Detective Ed David! How awesome is that?! Let's keep both of them in prayer. I'll have more in the upcoming newsletter, including news on how to help out. Stay tuned!
-- Retired Denver PD officer and current DPD Chaplain/Pastor Manny Hays told us today that his wife Angie has been diagnosed with liver cancer. Please join us in praying for healing and strength. Like Manny, Angie is mighty in Christ.
-- PRAISE REPORT! Retired DPD Ofc. Mark Roggeman's dad is hanging in there! Mark will be remaining in NC for a few more days to care for his parents. Please pray that his folks come to Christ while there is still time (Mark has been faithful in sharing the Gospel with them despite much resistance to same).
-- Pray for a colleague who is struggling in his marriage (wife is less than supportive). Ask God to direct his path in terms of career and family issues.
-- Pray for an investigator who is dealing with a very painful eye infection.
-- Pray for an investigator and an officer who are both testing for a promotional opportunities (God's will and direction).
-- Thanks to all who prayed for Diana and I on our Fall getaway to Lake City (CO) -- most remote county in the lower 48. Aspens were awesome -- thank you, Lord!
Please refer to the 9/14 post for additional...
UPDATED MEETING SCHEDULE (check back frequently for updates):
-- Thursday, 9/23, 7:00 PM, Calvary South Denver in Littleton (see http://www.calvarycsd.org/ for directions), in the High School Room.
-- Thursday, 9/30, same time/place as detailed above.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Late Breaking Prayer Requests & Announcements
Updated (9/14) PRAYER REQUESTS:
(1) Our own Erv Meyer has been hospitalized here in Denver. Please keep our brother in prayer. I will be visiting this afternoon. If interested in visiting, please shoot me an email at fullarmor911@yahoo.com for details. UPDATE: Thanks for the prayers -- Praise God, Erv is now home recuperating!
(2) Prayer Request for Joseph Family:
Zachary Joseph, the twenty-four year old son of Colorado's RISS/Rocky Mountain Information Network (RMIN) Field Services Coordinator Garry Joseph, died after an accident in Cripple Creek last weekend (see http://www.coloradocommunitynewspapers.com/articles/2010/09/02/courier_gold_rush/news/08_wp_cc_fatality.txt). Many remember Garry from his long career with Thornton (CO) PD before leaving to serve the law enforcement community through the RISS/RMIN program. Garry -- a strong believer -- has asked that we keep his family in prayer and gave his permission to post the request in this forum.
(3) Little Tayler Ellison (daughter of Englewood PD Ofc. Shane Ellison) is once again in need of prayer. Go to her CaringBridge site for more and to post notes of encouragement (initial password is "taylerellison"): http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/taylerellison.
(4) From a brother in the middle of the fight in Afghanistan:
I have a huge favor to ask of you. My team and I have a huge mission coming up in the very near future. We will need some prayers... the more the better!!!! This is one of those "this is what you train for" situations. Whilst we're at it, let's pray for all our military brothers and sisters serving in harm's way.
(5) Fellow FCPO National Board member Paul Lee in Chattanooga sends the following: Below is the latest update on little Elizabeth Jetton. Please keep her in your prayers. Please continue to pray for Officer Shelia Jetton (mom) and Matt (dad) for wisdom with the decisions they must make regarding their infant daughter who is scheduled for surgery today. For updates, go to: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethjetton/journal?jid=6053210 Prayers and words of support are coveted.
(6) Please be in prayer for officers, firefighters and of course the public they serve who are all dealing with and/or suffering from the effects of the Four-Mile Fire going on in Four-Mile Canyon (foothills and mountains west of Boulder, CO). Homes are burning to the their foundations and 3000 are currently being affected. Really bad...
(7) Be in prayer for all of us who are traveling to Gulfport (MS) this weekend for the FCPO National Conference.
(8) Pray for a brother officer in Boulder (CO) who is suffering from cancer.
Updated MEETING SCHEDULE:
-- Thursday (tomorrow), 9/9/10, 7:00-8:00 PM (yes, a short meeting this Thursday), Calvary South Denver (go to http://www.calvarycsd.org/ for directions), High School Room (new location -- past the main sanctuary at the end of the hall). I'll be teaching a special "9/11" message.
-- Fri-Sun (9/10-12/10), Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO) National Conference in Gulfport, MS. See http://www.fcpo.org/ for more. Hope you are planning to join us.
-- Thursday, 9/16/10, 7:00-8:30 PM, Calvary South Denver in Littleton, in the High School Room.
Check back frequently for the latest updates and announcements!
PATRIOT'S DAY (September 11th): Don't forget to fly your flags and say a prayer for all of us who serve in harm's way (police, military, etc.) protecting this nation. Pray also for the families of those who lost loved ones on this day of infamy.
Finally, are you "right" with God today? Let's be sure that we are walking in step with the Lord. Come to Him today if you don't have that "walk" (personal relationship with Christ) and, if you do know Christ as Savior, be sure you are living for Him in all things (Is He the Lord of your life?). Let's stay the course and finish strong!
(1) Our own Erv Meyer has been hospitalized here in Denver. Please keep our brother in prayer. I will be visiting this afternoon. If interested in visiting, please shoot me an email at fullarmor911@yahoo.com for details. UPDATE: Thanks for the prayers -- Praise God, Erv is now home recuperating!
(2) Prayer Request for Joseph Family:
Zachary Joseph, the twenty-four year old son of Colorado's RISS/Rocky Mountain Information Network (RMIN) Field Services Coordinator Garry Joseph, died after an accident in Cripple Creek last weekend (see http://www.coloradocommunitynewspapers.com/articles/2010/09/02/courier_gold_rush/news/08_wp_cc_fatality.txt). Many remember Garry from his long career with Thornton (CO) PD before leaving to serve the law enforcement community through the RISS/RMIN program. Garry -- a strong believer -- has asked that we keep his family in prayer and gave his permission to post the request in this forum.
(3) Little Tayler Ellison (daughter of Englewood PD Ofc. Shane Ellison) is once again in need of prayer. Go to her CaringBridge site for more and to post notes of encouragement (initial password is "taylerellison"): http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/taylerellison.
(4) From a brother in the middle of the fight in Afghanistan:
I have a huge favor to ask of you. My team and I have a huge mission coming up in the very near future. We will need some prayers... the more the better!!!! This is one of those "this is what you train for" situations. Whilst we're at it, let's pray for all our military brothers and sisters serving in harm's way.
(5) Fellow FCPO National Board member Paul Lee in Chattanooga sends the following: Below is the latest update on little Elizabeth Jetton. Please keep her in your prayers. Please continue to pray for Officer Shelia Jetton (mom) and Matt (dad) for wisdom with the decisions they must make regarding their infant daughter who is scheduled for surgery today. For updates, go to: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethjetton/journal?jid=6053210 Prayers and words of support are coveted.
(6) Please be in prayer for officers, firefighters and of course the public they serve who are all dealing with and/or suffering from the effects of the Four-Mile Fire going on in Four-Mile Canyon (foothills and mountains west of Boulder, CO). Homes are burning to the their foundations and 3000 are currently being affected. Really bad...
(7) Be in prayer for all of us who are traveling to Gulfport (MS) this weekend for the FCPO National Conference.
(8) Pray for a brother officer in Boulder (CO) who is suffering from cancer.
Updated MEETING SCHEDULE:
-- Thursday (tomorrow), 9/9/10, 7:00-8:00 PM (yes, a short meeting this Thursday), Calvary South Denver (go to http://www.calvarycsd.org/ for directions), High School Room (new location -- past the main sanctuary at the end of the hall). I'll be teaching a special "9/11" message.
-- Fri-Sun (9/10-12/10), Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO) National Conference in Gulfport, MS. See http://www.fcpo.org/ for more. Hope you are planning to join us.
-- Thursday, 9/16/10, 7:00-8:30 PM, Calvary South Denver in Littleton, in the High School Room.
Check back frequently for the latest updates and announcements!
PATRIOT'S DAY (September 11th): Don't forget to fly your flags and say a prayer for all of us who serve in harm's way (police, military, etc.) protecting this nation. Pray also for the families of those who lost loved ones on this day of infamy.
Finally, are you "right" with God today? Let's be sure that we are walking in step with the Lord. Come to Him today if you don't have that "walk" (personal relationship with Christ) and, if you do know Christ as Savior, be sure you are living for Him in all things (Is He the Lord of your life?). Let's stay the course and finish strong!
Monday, May 31, 2010
Memorial Day Message
Brothers & Sisters of the Sword:
This Memorial Day, we honour all our fellow warriors – law enforcement and military – who gave "all” or "some" in defense of our nation. Please remember the families and colleagues of the fallen in your prayers. This day I also honour the memory of my own father -- CMSgt. Lonie C. Williams, Jr. -- who served in the military for thirty years plus another seventeen doing the same job in DOD Civil Service. His military service included two tours in Vietnam and he was the last American to leave Iwo Jima when we returned it to Japan in 1968. The flag Dad removed from the pole on Mt. Suribachi (see http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/49/Mt_Suribachi_memorial_Iwo_Jima.jpg) still flies today at my parent’s home in Texas. Dad went to be with the Lord just under a year ago and I would ask your prayers for my mother as the pain of his death is still very fresh for her.
That said, what is central for us who know Christ as Lord and Savior is that we must take on a sense of urgency in sharing the Gospel message with both those we serve and those we serve with. What makes my father’s sacrifice truly significant is the assurance that Dad is NOW with the Lord because -- some years ago – he turned and said “yes” to Christ. I can think of no greater tragedy than for a fellow warrior to end this life without the assurance of spending eternity with our Lord (what it means to be “saved”). As I’ve pointed out numerous times before, our service does NOT provide a “get out of jail” (hell) pass! On the contrary, God’s word is very clear that ONLY those who repent of their sins and are “born again” in Christ will be saved. If YOU have not already made a decision for Christ or are living a life that is anything short of being 100 percent sold-out for Him, then I urge you to get right with our Lord today. See the “How to Know Christ as Savior” link right here on our website or contact me directly and I’ll be honored to help you take that step. God's word (Bible) clearly tells us that there are NO second chances once this life ends. In accordance with Joshua 24:15, “…choose this day whom you will serve…As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. “ What say YOU?
In keeping with today’s holiday, I will be teaching a special Memorial Day message at this Thursday’s (June 3rd) Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry meeting starting at 1900 hours at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. In addition, we will have a special visitor in the person of noted Marine, police officer and chaplain Col. Ray Fairman (http://www.rayfairman.com/). Ray plans to stop by while on vacation from Georgia and I’ll set time aside for our fellow warrior to share some of his remarkable testimony. Please join us and don’t forget to pass the word to your friends and colleagues.
Finally (and speaking of honoring and remembering our own on Memorial Day), pastor and police chaplain Lonnie Trujillo passed along the following: "Thought I'd let you know that Denver PD Officer Mark Roggeman retired yesterday after 39 years of law enforcement service being a point man, serving his fellow man, called by God, sharing the gospel of Jesus." Mark led a Peace Officers for Christ International (POFCI) chapter in Denver for a number of years and our brother still has much work to do in our Lord’s service. Let’s keep Mark in prayer as he seeks God’s will and direction for the next chapter in his earthly life.
MESSAGE RECAP:
Last week’s discussion centered on the topic of “why God allows trials and tribulations” in our lives. Why would a loving God allow us to go through such things as the death of a child, injury, disease, hardships, worry and fear? What about all the carnage and evil we see as cops? Doesn’t loving us mean that God wants our lives to be easy and comfortable? The issue of sin aside (I'll come back to it) and inasmuch as the Christian life is one that should be lead in accordance with God’s word (the Bible), the answer is “NO.” For the believer (Christian), ALL trials and tribulations ("TNT") have a specific purpose in accordance with His perfect plan and will. Here are the main points:
(1) God’s ultimate purpose is for us to grow more and more into the image of His Son (Romans 8:29). The way trials accomplish this is explained in 1 Peter 1:6-7.
(2) Trials develop godly character and we are called to REJOICE in them (Romans 5:3-5, 8; Romans 8:37). Oswald Chambers, on the subject of “spiritual SURFING,” wrote, “The wave that distresses the ordinary swimmer produces in the surf-rider the super JOY of going clean through it. These very things – tribulation, distress, persecution – produce in us super-joy; they are NOT things to fight. We are “more than conquerors”...the saint (Christian) knows the joy of the Lord not in spite of the tribulation but BECAUSE of it.”
(3) Persevering through TNT proves our faith (Philippians 4:13).
(4) Sin has consequences and God will most definitely discipline His own (1 Peter 4:15; Hebrews 12:1-11; Deuteronomy 8:2-5).
(5) TNT come with both a purpose and a reward (James 1:2-4, 12; 1 Corinthians 10:13).
(6) TNT help us to grow and mature in Christ (James 1:2-4).
(7) God will comfort us in our troubles (II Corinthians 1:4).
(8) There is no better time to serve others than in the midst of our own suffering and troubles (Luke 6:38). We should also understand that there are others are dealing with as much or more than we are and that Christ suffered the most of all.
MEETING SCHEDULE for our locals and visitors:
(1) Thursday, June 3rd, 1900 hours, Calvary South Denver, Multi-Purpose room (big room just inside the main entrance), 9052 W Ken Caryl Ave, Littleton, CO 80128.
(2) Thursday, June 10, same time/location as #1 above.
(3) Thursday, June 17, same time/location as #1 above.
PRAYER REQUESTS are updated and posted here on our website. That said – Memorial Day should be a reminder to pray for this nation and the leaders who have drifted away from the biblical principles on which our country was founded. II Chronicles 7:14 reads, “If my people, who are called by my Name, will humble themselves, pray, search for me, and TURN from their evil ways, then I will hear their prayer, forgive their sins, and heal their country.”
Stay the course!
This Memorial Day, we honour all our fellow warriors – law enforcement and military – who gave "all” or "some" in defense of our nation. Please remember the families and colleagues of the fallen in your prayers. This day I also honour the memory of my own father -- CMSgt. Lonie C. Williams, Jr. -- who served in the military for thirty years plus another seventeen doing the same job in DOD Civil Service. His military service included two tours in Vietnam and he was the last American to leave Iwo Jima when we returned it to Japan in 1968. The flag Dad removed from the pole on Mt. Suribachi (see http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/49/Mt_Suribachi_memorial_Iwo_Jima.jpg) still flies today at my parent’s home in Texas. Dad went to be with the Lord just under a year ago and I would ask your prayers for my mother as the pain of his death is still very fresh for her.
That said, what is central for us who know Christ as Lord and Savior is that we must take on a sense of urgency in sharing the Gospel message with both those we serve and those we serve with. What makes my father’s sacrifice truly significant is the assurance that Dad is NOW with the Lord because -- some years ago – he turned and said “yes” to Christ. I can think of no greater tragedy than for a fellow warrior to end this life without the assurance of spending eternity with our Lord (what it means to be “saved”). As I’ve pointed out numerous times before, our service does NOT provide a “get out of jail” (hell) pass! On the contrary, God’s word is very clear that ONLY those who repent of their sins and are “born again” in Christ will be saved. If YOU have not already made a decision for Christ or are living a life that is anything short of being 100 percent sold-out for Him, then I urge you to get right with our Lord today. See the “How to Know Christ as Savior” link right here on our website or contact me directly and I’ll be honored to help you take that step. God's word (Bible) clearly tells us that there are NO second chances once this life ends. In accordance with Joshua 24:15, “…choose this day whom you will serve…As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. “ What say YOU?
In keeping with today’s holiday, I will be teaching a special Memorial Day message at this Thursday’s (June 3rd) Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry meeting starting at 1900 hours at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. In addition, we will have a special visitor in the person of noted Marine, police officer and chaplain Col. Ray Fairman (http://www.rayfairman.com/). Ray plans to stop by while on vacation from Georgia and I’ll set time aside for our fellow warrior to share some of his remarkable testimony. Please join us and don’t forget to pass the word to your friends and colleagues.
Finally (and speaking of honoring and remembering our own on Memorial Day), pastor and police chaplain Lonnie Trujillo passed along the following: "Thought I'd let you know that Denver PD Officer Mark Roggeman retired yesterday after 39 years of law enforcement service being a point man, serving his fellow man, called by God, sharing the gospel of Jesus." Mark led a Peace Officers for Christ International (POFCI) chapter in Denver for a number of years and our brother still has much work to do in our Lord’s service. Let’s keep Mark in prayer as he seeks God’s will and direction for the next chapter in his earthly life.
MESSAGE RECAP:
Last week’s discussion centered on the topic of “why God allows trials and tribulations” in our lives. Why would a loving God allow us to go through such things as the death of a child, injury, disease, hardships, worry and fear? What about all the carnage and evil we see as cops? Doesn’t loving us mean that God wants our lives to be easy and comfortable? The issue of sin aside (I'll come back to it) and inasmuch as the Christian life is one that should be lead in accordance with God’s word (the Bible), the answer is “NO.” For the believer (Christian), ALL trials and tribulations ("TNT") have a specific purpose in accordance with His perfect plan and will. Here are the main points:
(1) God’s ultimate purpose is for us to grow more and more into the image of His Son (Romans 8:29). The way trials accomplish this is explained in 1 Peter 1:6-7.
(2) Trials develop godly character and we are called to REJOICE in them (Romans 5:3-5, 8; Romans 8:37). Oswald Chambers, on the subject of “spiritual SURFING,” wrote, “The wave that distresses the ordinary swimmer produces in the surf-rider the super JOY of going clean through it. These very things – tribulation, distress, persecution – produce in us super-joy; they are NOT things to fight. We are “more than conquerors”...the saint (Christian) knows the joy of the Lord not in spite of the tribulation but BECAUSE of it.”
(3) Persevering through TNT proves our faith (Philippians 4:13).
(4) Sin has consequences and God will most definitely discipline His own (1 Peter 4:15; Hebrews 12:1-11; Deuteronomy 8:2-5).
(5) TNT come with both a purpose and a reward (James 1:2-4, 12; 1 Corinthians 10:13).
(6) TNT help us to grow and mature in Christ (James 1:2-4).
(7) God will comfort us in our troubles (II Corinthians 1:4).
(8) There is no better time to serve others than in the midst of our own suffering and troubles (Luke 6:38). We should also understand that there are others are dealing with as much or more than we are and that Christ suffered the most of all.
MEETING SCHEDULE for our locals and visitors:
(1) Thursday, June 3rd, 1900 hours, Calvary South Denver, Multi-Purpose room (big room just inside the main entrance), 9052 W Ken Caryl Ave, Littleton, CO 80128.
(2) Thursday, June 10, same time/location as #1 above.
(3) Thursday, June 17, same time/location as #1 above.
PRAYER REQUESTS are updated and posted here on our website. That said – Memorial Day should be a reminder to pray for this nation and the leaders who have drifted away from the biblical principles on which our country was founded. II Chronicles 7:14 reads, “If my people, who are called by my Name, will humble themselves, pray, search for me, and TURN from their evil ways, then I will hear their prayer, forgive their sins, and heal their country.”
Stay the course!
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