Dear Fellow Officers and Supporters:
Finding enough time and energy over the past ten days has been something of an ordeal so please bear with me. Most have no idea how much time it takes to put together a weekly newsletter, prepare my message -- essentially a profession-relevant sermon, run this ministry (as much a calling from God as my profession), take care of my other ministry responsibilities at my church, “be there” for bride and family, and hold down my law enforcement duties. That is why I routinely ask you to keep me in prayer – and even more this week when the enemy is afoot. While God’s call for me is a joy, I do in fact covet your prayerful support. Thanks in advance! That said, let’s get to it!
We’re NOT SPAM!
Unfortunately, I’m discovering that some of you are finding emailed version of this newsletter in your SPAM folders. I’ve also been told that our website may have been flagged by McAfee for "suspicious activity" (clearly not but I'm working on it). Please be sure that you add both my email addresses (fullarmor911@yahoo.com and thecenturionministry@yahoo.com to your address books. In addition, this website is absolutely safe. FYI!
MESSAGE RECAP
We had another full-house for last week’s Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry/Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers chapter (FCPO-Denver) meeting and tactical Bible study. My hope is that readers will (1) use the recap as part of their own Bible studies and devotionals and (2) that you’ll adapt the studies for the law enforcement fellowships you are a part of in your respective jurisdictions around the country. Accordingly, here’s the recap from last week’s tactical Bible study dealing with the subject of "Being like Mike" -- the process of SANCTIFICATION:
When Michael Jordan was "king" of the hardwoods, the phrase "Be like Mike" was all over the airwaves. For the Christian, a big part of our call is the process of continually growing our faith and relationship (not the "other 'r' word -- "religion") to become "like Christ" in all we do and say. That process stems from the Greek word hagiazo -- being "separated" or "set apart" through sanctification -- what it means to be "conformed" to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29).
I covered three main points:
(1) Santification is different than salvation. Rather, sanctification is an ongoing (ideally life-long) result of salvation.
(2) Sanctification is a continuing process (see Galatians 5:17).
(3) Sanctification is a Christian responsibility.
So how do we get there? How can we "be like Christ?" Jesus had a lot to say about sanctification in the John 17. In verse 16 the Lord says, “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world,” and this is before His prayer that the Father “Sanctify them in the truth: Thy word is truth.” Sanctification is a state of separation unto God; all believers enter into this state when they are born of God: “But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption” (1 Corinthians 1:30). This is a once-for-ever separation, eternally unto God. It is an intricate part of our salvation, our connection with Christ (Hebrews 10:10). Sanctification also refers to the practical experience of this separation unto God, being the effect of obedience to the Word of God in one’s life, and is to be pursued by the believer earnestly (1 Peter 1:15; Hebrews 12:14). Just as the Lord prayed in John 17, it has in view the setting apart of believers for the purpose for which they are sent into the world: “As Thou didst send Me into the world, even so send I them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they themselves also may be sanctified in truth” (v. 18, 19). That He set Himself apart for the purpose for which He was sent is both the basis and the condition of our being set apart for that for which we are sent (John 10:36). His sanctification is the pattern of, and the power for, ours. The sending and the sanctifying are inseparable. On this account they are called saints, hagioi in the Greek -- “sanctified ones.” Whereas previously their behavior bore witness to their standing in the world in separation from God, now their behavior should bear witness to their standing before God in separation from the world. There is one more sense that the word sanctification is referred to in Scripture. Paul prayed in 1 Thessalonians 5:23, “The God of peace Himself sanctify you wholly; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved entire, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Paul also wrote in Colossians of “the hope which is laid up for you in the heavens, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the Gospel” (Colossians 1:5). He later speaks of Christ Himself as “the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27) and then mentions the fact of that hope when he says, “When Christ, who is our Life, shall be manifested, then shall ye also with Him be manifested in glory” (Colossians 3:4). This glorified state will be our ultimate separation from sin, total sanctification in every aspect. “Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2).
To summarize, sanctification is the same Greek word as holiness, “hagios,” meaning a separation. First, a once-for-all positional separation unto Christ at our salvation. Second, a practical progressive holiness/obedience in a believer’s life while awaiting the return of Christ. Third, we will be changed into His perfect likeness—holy, sanctified, and completely separated from the presence of evil. See also 1 Cor. 2:16.
That's part of our call -- to intentionally be more and more "like Christ" in all we do and say. To do that, we have to understand sin and walk in obedience in accordance with His perfect word and standard, the Bible.
Tonight I'll talk about another part of our call -- the one given by God specifically to to law enforcement personnel.
The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry to Meet in AURORA!
As previously announced, our new monthly venture in the eastern metro area (Aurora) begins this evening (2/17/11) starting at 7 PM in room 138 at Calvary Chapel Aurora. Go to www.calvarychapelaurora.org for directions. Our own Matt Wallenburg will be leading a time of worship, we’ll have some of our law enforcement apparel and other gear on hand and I’ll be teaching on our true “Calling and Purpose” in law enforcement. Do you understand your “calling” in our unique profession and the true source of that calling? Please join us as we discuss what God has to say on the subject.
FACEBOOK UPDATE
A number of issues have necessitated my making some changes regarding Facebook (the focus has always been to keep Facebook primarily as a ministry tool). As such, I’d appreciate it if you would make a point of visiting our new page (under active development) and “like” it for me: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Centurion-Law-Enforcement-Ministry-FCPO-Denver/165229383527705. Let me know what you think!
TRAINING Corner
I wanted to give everyone an update and reminder that I’ll be joining my partner in ministry, Tulsa PD Captain and Ten Four Ministries (www.tenfourministries.org) director Travis Yates, in Oklahoma on April 7th where my friend Lt. Col. Dave Grossman will be giving a special presentation of his outstanding Bulletproof Mind program. Please consider joining us! Go to Travis’s new sister site for details: http://warriormissions.org/training/bulletproofmind.
NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
(1) There is a great new website out there for first responders that has a wealth of information and resources. While I’ve added a link to Responder Life here on my website, you can also go to it directly at www.responderlife.com.
(2) After nearly nine months of treatment here at Craig Rehabilitation Hospital, wounded Polk County (WI) S.O. Dep. Mike Seversen has gone home to Wisconsin. Mike and I forged a strong friendship during my near-weekly visits and I’m asking that you keep him in prayer. Mike’s behavior is nothing short of remarkable. I’m encouraging folks to drop him a line now and then via his CaringBridge site: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/mikeseversen1.
(3) A Christian Law Enforcement Conference is being held next month in Shroon Lake, NY. My friend Randy Green will be the keynote speaker! Go to http://wolinn.org/calendars/viewEvent/4709346?cal_category=45755 for details.
(4) The much anticipated, biblically-based law enforcement film The Grace Card is set to hit theaters next week! Go to http://www.thegracecardmovie.com/ for details (Diana and I plan to attend and hope you will as well).
(5) Officer Down news! We’ve had a brutal last 14 months (including three more down in the last couple of days alone)! Please be in prayer for the families of the fallen and for the recovery of our wounded brethren. Go to www.odmp.org for more details.
(6) The Canadian Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO-Canada) website has been updated and I've included a link to same here on our site. Check it out.
(6) Finally, the latest PRAYER REQUESTS & local MEETING SCHEDULE has been posted here our website (following posts here at www.TheCenturionLawEnforcementMinistry.org). Please update yourself and then check back frequently.
That’s it for this week’s edition (but don’t forget to scroll down for the FCPO NewsBlast). Now pass it on to others in your address book – and keep your powder dry as you continue to serve and protect in our God-ordained profession. Blessings!
Showing posts with label Mike Seversen. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mike Seversen. Show all posts
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Friday, February 11, 2011
New Prayer Requests
Updated 02/17/2011
See the updated Feb. 8th post for additional!
** Oklahoma City PD Ofc. Chad Peery was critically injured pursuant to being beaten in an off-duty incident. Chad faces the posibilty of permanent paralysis and has a wife and four kids.
See http://www.news9.com/Global/category.asp?C=116601&autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=5575515&flvUri&partnerclipid.
** Please pray for Boulder (CO) Ofc. Mike Pease and his family and colleagues. Mike knows the Lord! See below...
"Dear Friends of the Pease Family,
Mike's condition is steadily declining, and he is sleeping most of the time. Hospice is advising that Mike have no visitors. Judy is content to spend most of her time with Mike at Hospice, but does go back-and-forth between Hospice and home to ensure Jack is able to visit his dad on a regular basis. If you are praying for Mike, Judy, and Jack, you can pray for God’s continuing, abiding presence to be with them throughout the day. I take continual source of comfort from scripture, and share it with you, in hopes it comforts you, too. It can be used as a source of prayer for Mike, Judy, and Jack as well.
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?…… No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[b] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:35, 37-39)
So we are always of good courage. (2 Cor. 5:6 ESV)
Kind regards,
Tom and Monika Dunne"
*UPDATE 02/14/11: Mike went to be with the Lord this AM. This is in fact ANSWERED prayer -- our brother is now healed and in perfect joy because he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior BEFORE this life ended. Please continue to be in prayer for his wife and young son.
** A long-time CO state investigator is reported to be failing and is now in hospice. I don't know if our brother knows the Lord or not but I'm trying to find out. Please pray (healing and that he would be open to having a Christian brother come alongside him and share the truth before it is too late).
Bob Martin, NYPD (Ret)
** Paul Lee in Chattanooga sends the following (very tough, to say the least):
We have received an urgent prayer request. Officer Todd Wood from the Sheldon Police Department in Sheldon, Iowa responded to the scene of an accident this morning only to find out that his daughter was a fatality in it. I have no other details at this time. This is a call that we can’t even imagine in our minds responding to. As I type this my heart is breaking for Todd and his entire family. Please pass this on for prayer to all your prayer warrior friends.
Please also pray for our FCPO brother and sisters in Iowa and the surrounding area as they minister to Todd and his family.
God bless,
Paul Lee (Retired Capt. Chattanooga PD)
President FCPO
www.fcpo.org
** Mark Roggeman sent me the following:
Brothers & Sisters in Christ please pray for our grand son, Evan Esse who is 10months old. He is in Children Hospital in Detroit. They are running many test to find out what is wrong. Please Pray for Evan, my son Mark and wife Karis for God's Healing, Peace and Comfort.
In His Grip!
Emery Esse retired Detroit Officer
** Long time NM officer William "Bill" Hubbard has been named director of the NM DPS Special Investigations Division (my former unit). Bill is a Christian and SID is in desperate need of godly servant-leadership. Please join me in praying that Bill will respond to God's call and be the servant-leader God is calling him (and all of us) to be.
** Please continue to pray for retired Arapahoe County S.O. Deputy Roy Hood recovers from back surgery (pray for his bride Beth too whilst you're at it -- LOL)
See the updated Feb. 8th post for additional!
** Oklahoma City PD Ofc. Chad Peery was critically injured pursuant to being beaten in an off-duty incident. Chad faces the posibilty of permanent paralysis and has a wife and four kids.
See http://www.news9.com/Global/category.asp?C=116601&autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=5575515&flvUri&partnerclipid.
** Please pray for Boulder (CO) Ofc. Mike Pease and his family and colleagues. Mike knows the Lord! See below...
"Dear Friends of the Pease Family,
Mike's condition is steadily declining, and he is sleeping most of the time. Hospice is advising that Mike have no visitors. Judy is content to spend most of her time with Mike at Hospice, but does go back-and-forth between Hospice and home to ensure Jack is able to visit his dad on a regular basis. If you are praying for Mike, Judy, and Jack, you can pray for God’s continuing, abiding presence to be with them throughout the day. I take continual source of comfort from scripture, and share it with you, in hopes it comforts you, too. It can be used as a source of prayer for Mike, Judy, and Jack as well.
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?…… No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[b] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:35, 37-39)
So we are always of good courage. (2 Cor. 5:6 ESV)
Kind regards,
Tom and Monika Dunne"
*UPDATE 02/14/11: Mike went to be with the Lord this AM. This is in fact ANSWERED prayer -- our brother is now healed and in perfect joy because he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior BEFORE this life ended. Please continue to be in prayer for his wife and young son.
** A long-time CO state investigator is reported to be failing and is now in hospice. I don't know if our brother knows the Lord or not but I'm trying to find out. Please pray (healing and that he would be open to having a Christian brother come alongside him and share the truth before it is too late).
** I again visited with wounded Polk County (WI) S.O. Deputy Mike Seversen at Craig Hospital this past weekend. Mike will be going home to Wisconsin in Wednesday (2/16) and I'm again asking for prayer on his behalf -- traveling mercies, that his new nursing staff will care for him as if they were caring for a member of their own family, and that God will both comfort and use Mike mightily for His purposes. I'll have more on Mike's move in this week's newsletter...
** Sally Martin, a very dear friend of my family and the law enforcement community, has just been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. We would appreciate it if the "True Stories" family could remember her in their prayers.Bob Martin, NYPD (Ret)
** Paul Lee in Chattanooga sends the following (very tough, to say the least):
We have received an urgent prayer request. Officer Todd Wood from the Sheldon Police Department in Sheldon, Iowa responded to the scene of an accident this morning only to find out that his daughter was a fatality in it. I have no other details at this time. This is a call that we can’t even imagine in our minds responding to. As I type this my heart is breaking for Todd and his entire family. Please pass this on for prayer to all your prayer warrior friends.
Please also pray for our FCPO brother and sisters in Iowa and the surrounding area as they minister to Todd and his family.
God bless,
Paul Lee (Retired Capt. Chattanooga PD)
President FCPO
www.fcpo.org
** Mark Roggeman sent me the following:
Brothers & Sisters in Christ please pray for our grand son, Evan Esse who is 10months old. He is in Children Hospital in Detroit. They are running many test to find out what is wrong. Please Pray for Evan, my son Mark and wife Karis for God's Healing, Peace and Comfort.
In His Grip!
Emery Esse retired Detroit Officer
** Long time NM officer William "Bill" Hubbard has been named director of the NM DPS Special Investigations Division (my former unit). Bill is a Christian and SID is in desperate need of godly servant-leadership. Please join me in praying that Bill will respond to God's call and be the servant-leader God is calling him (and all of us) to be.
** Please continue to pray for retired Arapahoe County S.O. Deputy Roy Hood recovers from back surgery (pray for his bride Beth too whilst you're at it -- LOL)
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Twas the Day After CHRISTmas...Latest Updates!
Latest PRAYER REQUESTS (check back frequently for updates):
Updated 12/29!
-- Please pray for wounded Polk County (WI) Deputy Mike Seversen who has been undergoing treatment at Craig Hospital in Englewood. Also check out his CaringBridge site and leave him a word of support and encouragement (Mike's story is there as well): http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/mikeseversen1.
-- One of our own was laid to rest on Tuesday (12/21): retired Colorado State Trooper Marvin Weese (a believer). Please be in prayer for his family and colleagues. See http://www.timescall.com/News_Story.asp?id=24630 for more.
-- Let's be in prayer for the wounded Chicago firefighters and the families/colleagues of those who gave all on Dec. 24th.
-- Please pray for New Zealand Constable Bruce Mellor who was viciously attacked with a machete while on a traffic stop. Mellor and his NZ police colleagues work unarmed (insane).
-- Pray for two colleagues who are recovering from injuries.
-- The Colorado Law Enforcement Officers Association (CLEOA) just sent out the following (below). Please be in prayer for our brother's family and colleagues.
We want to let our supporters know that Steamboat Springs PD lost one of their officers to cancer: Dale Vance Coyner. Dale graduated from Steamboat Springs High School in 1980 after helping his football team win the 1979 State Football Championship. Dale was also an accomplished wrestler in high school. Dale received his Bachelor’s Degree from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia in 1984. When Dale returned to Steamboat Springs he began a Law Enforcement career by going to work with the Routt County Sheriff’s Department in 1997. He joined the Steamboat Springs Police Department in September of 1998 as a Patrol Officer. In 2004 Dale was promoted to Patrol Sergeant. Dale had an exemplary career and was known for taking pride in his work. He believed that kindness, strength, and integrity were paramount in handling the difficult situations that Police Officers encounter, and he demonstrated each of those qualities in his career. On December 4, 2010 Dale succumbed to cancer after a courageous 4 month battle with the disease. Dale passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. Dale leaves in this life his wife, Judy – his mother, Patricia – his son, Daniel Vance Coyner – his daughter, Rebekah Grace Coyner – his sister, Connie Jerene and her husband, Darrell Davis. He also leaves in this life a large number of relatives and friends. Our prayers go out to the Coyner family during this difficult time
-- We are asking everyone to say a prayer for the "Darkhorse" 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines and their families. They are fighting it out in Afghanistan & they have lost 9 marines in 4 days. Semper Fi, God Bless America and God Bless the United States Marine Corps...Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever.
See http://www.facebook.com/pages/3rd-Battalion-5th-Marines/129302720460021?v=wall for more.
-- Pray for a colleague who is dealing with some very serious back issues and is in a great deal of pain.
-- Mesa (AZ) PD Officer Lance Heivilin continues to covet your prayers as he battles cancer. Lance is on Facebook and he and his family would love to hear from you. Here is one of Lance's recent posts and one that epitomizes the Christian's proper attitude to trials:
My family returned from church, tears in their eyes, deeply touched by the Word shared by Paster Zach. I had stayed home today to visit with a friend who was in town on a trip, the timing as if it it was meant for Jennae, Dad, and Bryan to receive a message without me there. They had discussed the message with friends at church. They brought the message home, shared it with tears. The significance was so clear, Bryan carried likely the largest burden in the sharing of the three of them. But the message ended with smiles of understanding. A quietness of acceptance that is difficult to comprehend. I am compelled to share it with you. The reading today was from John 11:1-44. It is the chapter about the death of Jesus's good friend Lazarus. Jesus carries the burden of both God and man in his decision making. I want to focus on Verse 4, "But when Jesus heard about it he said, "The purpose of his illness is not death, but for the glory of God. I, Son of God, will receive glory from this situation." I have learned through this illness that I am not sharing my story for my own reward. It started out that way, but His word has shown me different. I share my story, to show others that God's strength is the source of my strength. That my love for Jesus brings me the comfort that if modern medicine cannot keep me well, that what lies ahead is not the end but only the beginning. Verse 4 brings Jennae security, the kind that makes a husband know that everything will be ok. People see the convoluted chain of events of the past 6 months in my life, which one person could never plan, has brought me to one of the top cancer treatment facilities in the country. There is a greater plan at work here. But please, understand that miracle I hope will come in controlling the cancer is not my testimony. All that I am today, all the incredible blessings beginning with my wife and now family, came after a I submitted to God in a tiny loft apartment one dark night in 2000. My life as it stands today is my testimony. Confronting cancer is another chapter, though I hope it is the strongest chapter in a compelling reformation of a troubled and conflicted soul. Thank you all for being here for me, for Jennae, for my family in our greatest hour of need. It is my hope that my battle with cancer will shine as my brightest success, by helping people understand God's grace. It is my prayer that when the day comes and you need His grace to succeed in your overwhelming challenges, you will ask Him. Reach for Him. Submit to His will. Through this you will find an inner peace you never dreamed possible.
What a great testimony! "Complete calm in the eye of the storm."
-- Please continue to pray and support little Elizabeth Jetton and her parents -- TN Officer Sheila Jetton and husband Matt. Show your support via Elizabeth's Sheila's CaringBridge site (http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethjetton). We can be warrior's in many ways, and Sheila and Matt are truly that as they fight for their daughter's life.
-- Laura Lawyer, wife of CSP Trooper Ivan "Gene" Lawyer, sends the following:
My name is Laura, and on July 20, 2010 my husband Gene Lawyer, who is a 10 year veteran of the Colorado State Patrol, was involved in a shooting while on duty. This is any law enforcement officers and families worst nightmare and no one could prepare you for the way this changes your life. Not only the mental issues, but the finances and the way you live your everyday life. This incident as well as the ongoing crisis has turned our lives upside down, as well as our friends, families and even our co-workers lives.Gene has been indicted on multiple felony counts stemming from the incident. His first court appearance was on November 9 and his next appearance will be on January 11, 2011. We have been advised the entire process could take more than a year. At the time of the incident Gene was not a member of the CSPPA (Colorado State Patrol Protective Association) and therefore not protected with legal defense. This has left our family to obtain a private attorney to represent Gene’s case and has placed a HUGE financial burden on our family.I am asking as a wife to please think about your family, friends, loved ones, neighbors, co-workers or even that law enforcement officer you know or possibly have never met. PLEASE, if there is any way you can help us by donating to Gene’s attorney fees, we would GREATLY appreciate it. We ALL realize with the economy the way it is and money being very tight for everyone, the sacrifice it will take from each of you. The outcome in this case can and will affect the way all law enforcement officers do their jobs across the entire nation.
The bank information needed for you to graciously donate to Gene’s attorney fees is as follows:
WELLS FARGO/WACHOVIA Bank
ACCOUNT # 6633784522
ROUTING # 102000076
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR DONATION!!!!!!! Always make sure to tell your loved one that you love them before they go on duty, because you never know...
-- Continue to pray for Pastor/Chaplain Manny Hays (retired Denver PD officer) and his wife Angie who is battleing liver cancer and is in need of a transplant. Both are powerful in Christ.
Updated MEETING SCHEDULE for FCPO-Denver:
-- CANCELLED due to blizzard... Thursday, December 30th, 2010. 7 PM, Calvary South Denver in Littleton (http://www.calvarycsd.org/ for directions), High School Room -- last room on your right past the main sanctuary. We'll be taking a look back at we we've been in where we're going in 2011.
-- Thursday, January 6th, 2011. Same time/place as above.
Check back frequently for the latest updates!
Updated 12/29!
-- I need everyone to take a few moments to pray for a LEO and his family reference a very serious issue they are dealing with. It is about as bad as it can get -- a nightmare in the truest sense.
-- Arapahoe County SO Dep. Brad Ginn's mother is very ill. Please keep her, Brad, and the family in prayer.
-- Vinse Gilliam in Ventura County, CA has asked us to pray for a DA's investigator who apparently shot himself today (unknown if accidental or other). Here's the story: "Police this afternoon are investigating what appears to be an accidental shooting involving a Ventura County District Attorney’s Office investigator, Cmdr. Mark Stadler, of the Ventura Police Department said. Police responded to the 600 block of County Square Drive in Ventura, across the street from the Government Center, after receiving a report about 12:50 p.m.
The investigator may have shot himself either near or in a gray car parked outside of an office building where district attorney investigators work, according to a preliminary investigation. Stadler said the investigator is a man, but did release any additional information about him. No one else was involved in the shooting. The investigator, who was taken to Ventura County Medical Center, apparently was conscious after the shooting and able to talk to people, Stadler said."
-- I've been asked to post a prayer for request for the Arlington (TX) PD and the family of slain Ofc. Jillian Smith. This is the second LODD in the past six months for this Dallas suburb and they are reeling. Here's the story on Jill: http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/148560-officer-2-others-dead-after-domestic-dispute.
-- While we're at it, let's just prayer for each other and go the extra mile in our cover tactics -- we're up forty percent over last year's totals and the last week alone has been horrendous.-- Please pray for wounded Polk County (WI) Deputy Mike Seversen who has been undergoing treatment at Craig Hospital in Englewood. Also check out his CaringBridge site and leave him a word of support and encouragement (Mike's story is there as well): http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/mikeseversen1.
-- One of our own was laid to rest on Tuesday (12/21): retired Colorado State Trooper Marvin Weese (a believer). Please be in prayer for his family and colleagues. See http://www.timescall.com/News_Story.asp?id=24630 for more.
-- Let's be in prayer for the wounded Chicago firefighters and the families/colleagues of those who gave all on Dec. 24th.
-- Please pray for New Zealand Constable Bruce Mellor who was viciously attacked with a machete while on a traffic stop. Mellor and his NZ police colleagues work unarmed (insane).
-- Pray for two colleagues who are recovering from injuries.
-- The Colorado Law Enforcement Officers Association (CLEOA) just sent out the following (below). Please be in prayer for our brother's family and colleagues.
We want to let our supporters know that Steamboat Springs PD lost one of their officers to cancer: Dale Vance Coyner. Dale graduated from Steamboat Springs High School in 1980 after helping his football team win the 1979 State Football Championship. Dale was also an accomplished wrestler in high school. Dale received his Bachelor’s Degree from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia in 1984. When Dale returned to Steamboat Springs he began a Law Enforcement career by going to work with the Routt County Sheriff’s Department in 1997. He joined the Steamboat Springs Police Department in September of 1998 as a Patrol Officer. In 2004 Dale was promoted to Patrol Sergeant. Dale had an exemplary career and was known for taking pride in his work. He believed that kindness, strength, and integrity were paramount in handling the difficult situations that Police Officers encounter, and he demonstrated each of those qualities in his career. On December 4, 2010 Dale succumbed to cancer after a courageous 4 month battle with the disease. Dale passed away peacefully surrounded by his family. Dale leaves in this life his wife, Judy – his mother, Patricia – his son, Daniel Vance Coyner – his daughter, Rebekah Grace Coyner – his sister, Connie Jerene and her husband, Darrell Davis. He also leaves in this life a large number of relatives and friends. Our prayers go out to the Coyner family during this difficult time
-- We are asking everyone to say a prayer for the "Darkhorse" 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines and their families. They are fighting it out in Afghanistan & they have lost 9 marines in 4 days. Semper Fi, God Bless America and God Bless the United States Marine Corps...Often Tested, Always Faithful, Brothers Forever.
See http://www.facebook.com/pages/3rd-Battalion-5th-Marines/129302720460021?v=wall for more.
-- Pray for a colleague who is dealing with some very serious back issues and is in a great deal of pain.
-- Mesa (AZ) PD Officer Lance Heivilin continues to covet your prayers as he battles cancer. Lance is on Facebook and he and his family would love to hear from you. Here is one of Lance's recent posts and one that epitomizes the Christian's proper attitude to trials:
My family returned from church, tears in their eyes, deeply touched by the Word shared by Paster Zach. I had stayed home today to visit with a friend who was in town on a trip, the timing as if it it was meant for Jennae, Dad, and Bryan to receive a message without me there. They had discussed the message with friends at church. They brought the message home, shared it with tears. The significance was so clear, Bryan carried likely the largest burden in the sharing of the three of them. But the message ended with smiles of understanding. A quietness of acceptance that is difficult to comprehend. I am compelled to share it with you. The reading today was from John 11:1-44. It is the chapter about the death of Jesus's good friend Lazarus. Jesus carries the burden of both God and man in his decision making. I want to focus on Verse 4, "But when Jesus heard about it he said, "The purpose of his illness is not death, but for the glory of God. I, Son of God, will receive glory from this situation." I have learned through this illness that I am not sharing my story for my own reward. It started out that way, but His word has shown me different. I share my story, to show others that God's strength is the source of my strength. That my love for Jesus brings me the comfort that if modern medicine cannot keep me well, that what lies ahead is not the end but only the beginning. Verse 4 brings Jennae security, the kind that makes a husband know that everything will be ok. People see the convoluted chain of events of the past 6 months in my life, which one person could never plan, has brought me to one of the top cancer treatment facilities in the country. There is a greater plan at work here. But please, understand that miracle I hope will come in controlling the cancer is not my testimony. All that I am today, all the incredible blessings beginning with my wife and now family, came after a I submitted to God in a tiny loft apartment one dark night in 2000. My life as it stands today is my testimony. Confronting cancer is another chapter, though I hope it is the strongest chapter in a compelling reformation of a troubled and conflicted soul. Thank you all for being here for me, for Jennae, for my family in our greatest hour of need. It is my hope that my battle with cancer will shine as my brightest success, by helping people understand God's grace. It is my prayer that when the day comes and you need His grace to succeed in your overwhelming challenges, you will ask Him. Reach for Him. Submit to His will. Through this you will find an inner peace you never dreamed possible.
What a great testimony! "Complete calm in the eye of the storm."
-- Please continue to pray and support little Elizabeth Jetton and her parents -- TN Officer Sheila Jetton and husband Matt. Show your support via Elizabeth's Sheila's CaringBridge site (http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethjetton). We can be warrior's in many ways, and Sheila and Matt are truly that as they fight for their daughter's life.
-- Laura Lawyer, wife of CSP Trooper Ivan "Gene" Lawyer, sends the following:
My name is Laura, and on July 20, 2010 my husband Gene Lawyer, who is a 10 year veteran of the Colorado State Patrol, was involved in a shooting while on duty. This is any law enforcement officers and families worst nightmare and no one could prepare you for the way this changes your life. Not only the mental issues, but the finances and the way you live your everyday life. This incident as well as the ongoing crisis has turned our lives upside down, as well as our friends, families and even our co-workers lives.Gene has been indicted on multiple felony counts stemming from the incident. His first court appearance was on November 9 and his next appearance will be on January 11, 2011. We have been advised the entire process could take more than a year. At the time of the incident Gene was not a member of the CSPPA (Colorado State Patrol Protective Association) and therefore not protected with legal defense. This has left our family to obtain a private attorney to represent Gene’s case and has placed a HUGE financial burden on our family.I am asking as a wife to please think about your family, friends, loved ones, neighbors, co-workers or even that law enforcement officer you know or possibly have never met. PLEASE, if there is any way you can help us by donating to Gene’s attorney fees, we would GREATLY appreciate it. We ALL realize with the economy the way it is and money being very tight for everyone, the sacrifice it will take from each of you. The outcome in this case can and will affect the way all law enforcement officers do their jobs across the entire nation.
The bank information needed for you to graciously donate to Gene’s attorney fees is as follows:
WELLS FARGO/WACHOVIA Bank
ACCOUNT # 6633784522
ROUTING # 102000076
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR DONATION!!!!!!! Always make sure to tell your loved one that you love them before they go on duty, because you never know...
-- Continue to pray for Pastor/Chaplain Manny Hays (retired Denver PD officer) and his wife Angie who is battleing liver cancer and is in need of a transplant. Both are powerful in Christ.
Updated MEETING SCHEDULE for FCPO-Denver:
-- CANCELLED due to blizzard... Thursday, December 30th, 2010. 7 PM, Calvary South Denver in Littleton (http://www.calvarycsd.org/ for directions), High School Room -- last room on your right past the main sanctuary. We'll be taking a look back at we we've been in where we're going in 2011.
-- Thursday, January 6th, 2011. Same time/place as above.
Check back frequently for the latest updates!
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Merry CHRISTmas!!
The Holy Spirit laid it on my heart to stay up late so as to be among the first to wish you all a joyous CHRISTmas. I was also led to accompany it with a few requests:
First, many of us will be/are working today. Know that I both honor your service and pray for your safety.
Secondly, our military brethren are standing in the gap for us -- in harms way -- even as I write this. Please pray for them and ask our loving Lord to give them an extra dose of grace and mercy.
Thirdly, I had the honor of once again visiting Polk County (WI) Sheriff's Deputy Mike Seversen on Christmas Eve (see http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/mikeseversen1). Mike was shot in the line of duty nearly 20 years ago and has been paralyzed since that time. He is currently at Craig Hospital here in Englewood and we (some of my FCPO-Denver/TCLEM brothers and I) visit regularly. Mike’s devoted friend Dawn Wright took a pic of us today that I’ve posted below (scroll down) Please take a moment to stop by and see Mike if you're in the Denver-metro area. Everyone else is encouraged to post something on his Caring Bridge site. Mike is a true warrior and he maintains a great attitude despite the issues he has been dealing with over the last two decades. He is also a powerful believer (Christian) and a great witness for Christ.
Finally, little Elizabeth Jetton, daughter of Chattanooga (TN) PD Ofc. Sheila Jetton, is spending Christmas in a Texas hospital seeking a lung transplant. Elizabeth, Sheila and her husband Matt need your prayers and support. See
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethjetton/journal.
As I close this CHRISTmas email, may I encourage my fellow believers to adopt a renewed sense of urgency about sharing the truth of Christ with those around you. That we lose a brother or sister officer (two more within the last 48 hours) is bad enough but to lose one for eternity is untenable. We must ALL make the same decision – choose God or -- by default -- the enemy (satan). Is Christ the Lord of your life? Have you asked Him into your heart? Christ is the ONLY way to be saved and that salvation is by no means “automatic.” Please, please -- I beg you: turn ("about face") from your sin (YES -- we are ALL sinners), seek His forgiveness (God is true to forgive all who come to Him in sincerity), and ask Christ to come into your life as your Lord and Savior.
Perhaps you are under the deception that there are many ways to God. Know that this is a lie of the devil! Jesus said, I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6) and salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other Name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved (Acts 14:12).
Perhaps you think that you get a "free ride" to heaven because you're a cop and/or are a "good" person. Really? Please go to http://fcpo.org/christian.html and take the "Good Person Test." What say you now?
Again I beg you -- come to Christ today if you do not already know Him. If you do but are living a ROD ("retired on duty") kind of Christian life, then please repent and get right with our Lord today. This is how we can best honor what the Lord did for us more than 2000 years ago -- what we now call Christmas.
As you open gifts with your families this morning, count your blessings and don't forget that it IS Jesus the Christ for which this day is commemorated. Thank Him in prayer -- and pray for those who do not have it so easy today.
Merry CHRISTmas, my brothers and sisters!
First, many of us will be/are working today. Know that I both honor your service and pray for your safety.
Secondly, our military brethren are standing in the gap for us -- in harms way -- even as I write this. Please pray for them and ask our loving Lord to give them an extra dose of grace and mercy.
Thirdly, I had the honor of once again visiting Polk County (WI) Sheriff's Deputy Mike Seversen on Christmas Eve (see http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/mikeseversen1). Mike was shot in the line of duty nearly 20 years ago and has been paralyzed since that time. He is currently at Craig Hospital here in Englewood and we (some of my FCPO-Denver/TCLEM brothers and I) visit regularly. Mike’s devoted friend Dawn Wright took a pic of us today that I’ve posted below (scroll down) Please take a moment to stop by and see Mike if you're in the Denver-metro area. Everyone else is encouraged to post something on his Caring Bridge site. Mike is a true warrior and he maintains a great attitude despite the issues he has been dealing with over the last two decades. He is also a powerful believer (Christian) and a great witness for Christ.
Finally, little Elizabeth Jetton, daughter of Chattanooga (TN) PD Ofc. Sheila Jetton, is spending Christmas in a Texas hospital seeking a lung transplant. Elizabeth, Sheila and her husband Matt need your prayers and support. See
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethjetton/journal.
As I close this CHRISTmas email, may I encourage my fellow believers to adopt a renewed sense of urgency about sharing the truth of Christ with those around you. That we lose a brother or sister officer (two more within the last 48 hours) is bad enough but to lose one for eternity is untenable. We must ALL make the same decision – choose God or -- by default -- the enemy (satan). Is Christ the Lord of your life? Have you asked Him into your heart? Christ is the ONLY way to be saved and that salvation is by no means “automatic.” Please, please -- I beg you: turn ("about face") from your sin (YES -- we are ALL sinners), seek His forgiveness (God is true to forgive all who come to Him in sincerity), and ask Christ to come into your life as your Lord and Savior.
Perhaps you are under the deception that there are many ways to God. Know that this is a lie of the devil! Jesus said, I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6) and salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other Name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved (Acts 14:12).
Perhaps you think that you get a "free ride" to heaven because you're a cop and/or are a "good" person. Really? Please go to http://fcpo.org/christian.html and take the "Good Person Test." What say you now?
Again I beg you -- come to Christ today if you do not already know Him. If you do but are living a ROD ("retired on duty") kind of Christian life, then please repent and get right with our Lord today. This is how we can best honor what the Lord did for us more than 2000 years ago -- what we now call Christmas.
As you open gifts with your families this morning, count your blessings and don't forget that it IS Jesus the Christ for which this day is commemorated. Thank Him in prayer -- and pray for those who do not have it so easy today.
Merry CHRISTmas, my brothers and sisters!
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