Updated (070810) PRAYER REQUESTS (see previous posts for additional):
-- Retired CPD Lt. Chuck Urgo -- a fellow FCPO national board member, sent the following: Chicago lost a fine officer yesterday. From all accounts he was not only a fine officer but a compassionate man who volunteered his time to help a blind neighbor. He was a husband, military veteran, athlete and had served the city for 11 years. Our prayers go out to his family, friends and fellow officers. I don't know where he stood with the Lord. My hope and prayer is that he had an active faith in Jesus. I would encourage every cop that has a relationship with the Lord to pray for your fellow officers, live a life worth of Christ and share your faith boldly. Be that "light in a dark place" pointing others to Jesus. You'll never know which of your co-workers may not make it to the next roll call.
http://www.suntimes.com/news/24-7/2475692,chicago-cop-shooting-070611.article
Police Officer Thor Soderberg
Chicago Police Department
End of Watch: Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Age: 43
Tour of Duty: 10 years, 11 months
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Weapon Used: Officer's handgun
Suspect Info: Shot/wounded and taken into custody.
Let's all be in prayer for Thor's family and colleagues.
-- As many of you know, former BART Officer Johannes Mehserle is currently on trial in CA. It is pretty clear to any trained officer that Johannes thought he was using a Taser and not a firearm. Please ask God to see that justice is done (this was NOT murder), that He will protect our brother/sister officers, and that cooler heads will prevail (reference the expected riots). Pray for Johannes as well. Fellow investigator Chris Orsini sent me the following: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=128375779&ft=1&f=1003.
-- A Chief writes, “On Saturday (07/03/10) morning Paul, the best man at my daughter’s wedding, was in a horrible traffic accident on his way to work. As a result of the accident he is paralyzed from the waist down, has a broken femur, shattered shoulder, 200 stitches in his face, broken ribs and a punctured lung. He had spinal surgery yesterday and has a second scheduled for next week. An off-duty cop and paramedic who were close and witnessed the accident saved his life. Please keep him in your prayers.”
-- Pray for a fellow investigator currently serving in Afghanistan with his Reserve unit (safety and that he will follow "hard after" our Lord).
-- Please pray for Illinois officer who is going through a proverbial “hell on earth” situation in relation to a use-of-force incident. Lots more to Jim’s situation than what is being played out in the media. We seek God’s intervention, truth, biblical leadership and of course that Jim would accept Christ as his Lord and Savior. Pray also for Jim’s sergeant (Dino) who is displaying outstanding courage and leadership in coming alongside our brother.
-- We continue to visit with Brownstown (MI) PD Officer Max Faistenhammer who is currently paralyzed and undergoing rehab here at Craig Hospital. Pray that our brother comes to Christ and that our Lord would grant Max healing in accordance with His perfect will. Whilst we’re at it, please continue to pray for Mahnomen County (MN) Dep. Chris Dewey and Chicago PD Ofc. Densey Cole.
-- Jason Pearson (Englewood PD) writes, "Mike Sorenson was re-admitted to Craig Hospital yesterday. Mike was shot in the line of duty some years ago and has returned due to complications from that shooting. Mike is in room #301, however he has limited visitation due to the seriousness of his new condition. Mike cannot talk out loud due to the recent complications that he suffered, but can lip words. Visits are limited to 5 minutes and please check in at the 3 West nurses station. Mike is from Wisconsin, I met him in February when he was at Craig for a re-evaluation. He is a great guy and does amazing things. " Let's keep Mike in prayer.
-- Pray for a young officer who is going through a divorce (restoration, repentance and biblical obedience, etc.). They have only been married a short time and his wife, supposedly a believer, left for other than biblical reasons (aka "sin").
-- Please keep the Chief and staff of the Grand Junction PD in your prayers (godly servant-leadership and more).
-- Pray for a colleague who is hurting and fighting for his marriage – part of which includes praying that his wife will come out of rebellion and back to the Lord. Our brother is also seeking God’s direction and will in terms of his career path and ministry.
Showing posts with label Officer Densey Cole. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Officer Densey Cole. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Samson -- A Lack of Integrity in Leadership
UPDATED 02/22/10
Dear Fellow Servant-Leaders:
I’m making an attempt to get the newsletter out a little early this week – hope it helps.
First off, we had a really great meeting last Thursday as we finished our study on the importance of credibility and compassion in leadership. In addition, our worship leader -- officer candidate Matt Wallenburg -- is back to open our meetings with some outstanding worship music (You are a true blessing, Bro!).
Here is the recap for all those outside our little section of the world:
Fairman, in his “Leadership Lessons from God” series, cites four critical leadership responsibilities: shepherding, stewardship, vision, and servanthood (see http://www.rayfairman.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=60&Itemid=9). In turn, I expanded on those key responsibilities and provided biblical support for each, as follows:
(1) Shepherding: As anyone who reads my posts or hears me speak knows, I’m a huge proponent of Lt. Col. Dave Grossman and his outstanding “sheepdog” analogy as it relates to the military and law enforcement (see http://www.killology.com/sheep_dog.htm). When it comes to godly leadership, however, we really need to have an understanding of what that similitude looks like. Yes, we (LEO’s) are indeed “sheepdogs.” But what do sheepdogs do in terms of the sheep? They usually “lead” and serve from the rear: they herd/push the sheep and keep/protect them from going astray. Yes, there is leadership there but ultimately both the sheep and the sheepdogs follow and are under the authority and leadership of the shepherd. Biblically speaking, the shepherd knows, feeds, protects, teaches, guides and loves both sheep and sheepdogs alike. Christ is clearly our ultimate role model of THE Shepherd. Instead of driving the sheep as the sheepdog does, the shepherd LEADS from the FRONT. See Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34: 1-23, and 1 Peter 5:2-3.
(2) Stewardship: Our focus here should be on developing dependability, fidelity, accountability and HUMILITY. See Luke 24:22-27.
(3) Vision: A true leader must have clear vision and be able to communicate that vision to both those they lead AND those they themselves follow. Nehemiah (Nehemiah 1; 4:16; 5:14-15) and Joseph (Genesis 39-41; 41:16 and 38) displayed visionary leadership – and they were followed because of that vision. Proverbs 29:18 tells us, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.”
(4) Servanthood: I’ve touched on this many times in the past but, in brief, God is calling us to lead with a servant’s heart (servant-leadership). See John 13; Philippians 2:3-11; and Isaiah 53.
So what kind of leader are you? Do you know anyone who fits this biblical model in your agency? One great example I know of is fellow FCPO board member and Arkansas City, Kansas Chief of Police Sean Wallace. Outstanding behavior!
UPDATE 02/22/10: Speaking of Sean, please keep his wife Robin in prayer as she was rushed to the hospital early this morning due to a heart condition.
This Thursday (2/25, 1900 hours, Room 7, Calvary South Denver, Littleton), we’ll take a look at the subject of "Integrity in Leadership" via an example of what NOT to do: truly poor leadership in the person of Samson. Please join us for great worship music, fellowship, profession-relevant Bible study and prayer. Our meetings are a great example of iron sharpening iron (Proverbs 27:17).
BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:
I get regular quesions about Bible study resources. Most know that I’m a big fan of http://www.gotquestions.org/ but here are two additional recommended resources (both are listed in the LINKS section on the left side of this page):
(1) http://www.biblestudytools.com/
(2) http://www.blueletterbible.org/ (outstanding online Bible).
DEPUTY CHRIS DEWEY’S DEPARTURE UPDATE:
As many are aware, Mahnomen County Deputy Chris Dewey was shot and left for dead one year ago last week (February 18th) and spent the ensuing eleven-plus months undergoing eleven surgeries and ongoing rehab here in Englewood. Chris is finally headed home to Minnesota and his wife Emily announced that they will leave this coming Tuesday (2/23) at 1000. I spent some time with Chris, Emily, and Ross (Em’s Dad) on Friday and prayed with them in person for the last time before they depart.
In addition, Denver PD Ofc. Danny Veith sent out the following:
As many of you are already aware, Chris arrived at Craig Hospital (Englewood, CO) on March 5, 2009 for the interdisciplinary Traumatic Brain Injury Program to address the multiple gunshot wounds he sustained.
I received confirmation this morning that Chris will return home next Tuesday, February 23rd. An ambulance is scheduled to depart from Craig for Centennial Airport at 10:30 AM.
We are hoping the Denver area law enforcement community will come out to Craig Hospital next Tuesday, at 0930 AM, to bid farewell to Chris and Emily. We are also planning an escort from Craig Hospital (3425 S. Clarkson Street) to Centennial Airport. Officers in marked patrol vehicles are encouraged to participate (parking will be made available on S. Clarkson Street).
Upon arriving back in Minnesota, Chris will continue rehabilitation as he transitions from a hospital environment to his home. Though this was a line-of-duty injury, workman’s comp does not pay for all of Chris and Emily’s needs. Please consider a donation which can be made at any Wells Fargo Bank - the “Deputy Chris Dewey Donation Account.”
For those of you who want to learn more about Chris, post a comment of encouragement and support, or follow his journey as he continues to rehab in Minnesota, please visit his Caring Bridge site at: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/chrisdewey
Please consider participating in this send off next Tuesday for one of our brother officers! If you have any questions, I can be contacted at 720-641-0208 or danny.veith@denvergov.org - Thank You!
Please continue to keep Chris, Emily and their families in prayer – and join us on Tuesday if you can.
UPDATE ON ERV MEYER:
I was finally able to reach Erv today and he told me that he is “staying the course” while working on his health and spending the winter in Arizona. Erv asked me to tell everyone that they are missed and that he is looking forward to being back with us in April.
SOCIAL NETWORK FOR CHRISTIAN COPS:
In addition to selected Police Pulse (http://www.policepulse.com/) pages and some areas on http://www.policelink.com/, check out this new social network for Christian officers: http://copsoffaithministries.ning.com/. We’ve already got our page started: http://copsoffaithministries.ning.com/profile/MCWilliams. That said, and while these are much better choices for us than Facebook (I've discontinued our pages) and My Space, let’s be VERY careful about what is posted.
PRAYER REQUESTS (Updated 2/22/10):
(1) Please pray for former Chicago PD Ofc. Louise Cole, mother of wounded Chicago PD Ofc. Densey Cole. Louise sent me the following:
I just came home from being in the hospital for the past 7 days. I have a tumor in my neck (left side) going up to the base of the skull by the artery. I have to make some major decisions soon & only God can lead me in the right direction. He spared my life this past week for sure.
(2) Speaking of Chicago: please be in prayer for the family and colleagues of the CPD sergeant who was killed there early this AM whilst en route to a burglary call (see http://www.chicagobreakingnews.com/2010/02/accident-closes-southbound-lanes-of-lake-shore.html). Retired CPD Lt. Chuck Urgo writes, "Chicago Police Sgt. Al Haymaker was a fine officer and brother in Christ. Please keep his family and co-workers in your prayers."
(3) Speaking of poor leadership in law enforcement, a Federal officer in NM has asked for prayer concerning how that issue is impacting her current and future career decisions.
(4) Be in prayer for the officers and staff of the Grand Junction (CO) Police Department (a number of departmental and personal issues). They have an outstanding new chief whom I hope will provide godly leadership. In addition, pray for those officers and staff who are considering starting their own Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO) chapter. I’m also pushing for GJPD to start a chaplain program.
(5) As posted above, Chief Sean Wallace (Arkansas City, KS) called this morning asking for prayer for his wife. Robin has been rushed to the hospital due to a heart problem.
(6) Finally, keep me in prayer as I lead this ministry and prepare to teach/preach at a retreat conference in Glen Eyrie next month.
Hope to see you Thursday. In the interim, let’s stay the course and finish strong out there!
Dear Fellow Servant-Leaders:
I’m making an attempt to get the newsletter out a little early this week – hope it helps.
First off, we had a really great meeting last Thursday as we finished our study on the importance of credibility and compassion in leadership. In addition, our worship leader -- officer candidate Matt Wallenburg -- is back to open our meetings with some outstanding worship music (You are a true blessing, Bro!).
Here is the recap for all those outside our little section of the world:
Fairman, in his “Leadership Lessons from God” series, cites four critical leadership responsibilities: shepherding, stewardship, vision, and servanthood (see http://www.rayfairman.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=60&Itemid=9). In turn, I expanded on those key responsibilities and provided biblical support for each, as follows:
(1) Shepherding: As anyone who reads my posts or hears me speak knows, I’m a huge proponent of Lt. Col. Dave Grossman and his outstanding “sheepdog” analogy as it relates to the military and law enforcement (see http://www.killology.com/sheep_dog.htm). When it comes to godly leadership, however, we really need to have an understanding of what that similitude looks like. Yes, we (LEO’s) are indeed “sheepdogs.” But what do sheepdogs do in terms of the sheep? They usually “lead” and serve from the rear: they herd/push the sheep and keep/protect them from going astray. Yes, there is leadership there but ultimately both the sheep and the sheepdogs follow and are under the authority and leadership of the shepherd. Biblically speaking, the shepherd knows, feeds, protects, teaches, guides and loves both sheep and sheepdogs alike. Christ is clearly our ultimate role model of THE Shepherd. Instead of driving the sheep as the sheepdog does, the shepherd LEADS from the FRONT. See Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34: 1-23, and 1 Peter 5:2-3.
(2) Stewardship: Our focus here should be on developing dependability, fidelity, accountability and HUMILITY. See Luke 24:22-27.
(3) Vision: A true leader must have clear vision and be able to communicate that vision to both those they lead AND those they themselves follow. Nehemiah (Nehemiah 1; 4:16; 5:14-15) and Joseph (Genesis 39-41; 41:16 and 38) displayed visionary leadership – and they were followed because of that vision. Proverbs 29:18 tells us, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.”
(4) Servanthood: I’ve touched on this many times in the past but, in brief, God is calling us to lead with a servant’s heart (servant-leadership). See John 13; Philippians 2:3-11; and Isaiah 53.
So what kind of leader are you? Do you know anyone who fits this biblical model in your agency? One great example I know of is fellow FCPO board member and Arkansas City, Kansas Chief of Police Sean Wallace. Outstanding behavior!
UPDATE 02/22/10: Speaking of Sean, please keep his wife Robin in prayer as she was rushed to the hospital early this morning due to a heart condition.
This Thursday (2/25, 1900 hours, Room 7, Calvary South Denver, Littleton), we’ll take a look at the subject of "Integrity in Leadership" via an example of what NOT to do: truly poor leadership in the person of Samson. Please join us for great worship music, fellowship, profession-relevant Bible study and prayer. Our meetings are a great example of iron sharpening iron (Proverbs 27:17).
BIBLE STUDY RESOURCES:
I get regular quesions about Bible study resources. Most know that I’m a big fan of http://www.gotquestions.org/ but here are two additional recommended resources (both are listed in the LINKS section on the left side of this page):
(1) http://www.biblestudytools.com/
(2) http://www.blueletterbible.org/ (outstanding online Bible).
DEPUTY CHRIS DEWEY’S DEPARTURE UPDATE:
As many are aware, Mahnomen County Deputy Chris Dewey was shot and left for dead one year ago last week (February 18th) and spent the ensuing eleven-plus months undergoing eleven surgeries and ongoing rehab here in Englewood. Chris is finally headed home to Minnesota and his wife Emily announced that they will leave this coming Tuesday (2/23) at 1000. I spent some time with Chris, Emily, and Ross (Em’s Dad) on Friday and prayed with them in person for the last time before they depart.
In addition, Denver PD Ofc. Danny Veith sent out the following:
As many of you are already aware, Chris arrived at Craig Hospital (Englewood, CO) on March 5, 2009 for the interdisciplinary Traumatic Brain Injury Program to address the multiple gunshot wounds he sustained.
I received confirmation this morning that Chris will return home next Tuesday, February 23rd. An ambulance is scheduled to depart from Craig for Centennial Airport at 10:30 AM.
We are hoping the Denver area law enforcement community will come out to Craig Hospital next Tuesday, at 0930 AM, to bid farewell to Chris and Emily. We are also planning an escort from Craig Hospital (3425 S. Clarkson Street) to Centennial Airport. Officers in marked patrol vehicles are encouraged to participate (parking will be made available on S. Clarkson Street).
Upon arriving back in Minnesota, Chris will continue rehabilitation as he transitions from a hospital environment to his home. Though this was a line-of-duty injury, workman’s comp does not pay for all of Chris and Emily’s needs. Please consider a donation which can be made at any Wells Fargo Bank - the “Deputy Chris Dewey Donation Account.”
For those of you who want to learn more about Chris, post a comment of encouragement and support, or follow his journey as he continues to rehab in Minnesota, please visit his Caring Bridge site at: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/chrisdewey
Please consider participating in this send off next Tuesday for one of our brother officers! If you have any questions, I can be contacted at 720-641-0208 or danny.veith@denvergov.org - Thank You!
Please continue to keep Chris, Emily and their families in prayer – and join us on Tuesday if you can.
UPDATE ON ERV MEYER:
I was finally able to reach Erv today and he told me that he is “staying the course” while working on his health and spending the winter in Arizona. Erv asked me to tell everyone that they are missed and that he is looking forward to being back with us in April.
SOCIAL NETWORK FOR CHRISTIAN COPS:
In addition to selected Police Pulse (http://www.policepulse.com/) pages and some areas on http://www.policelink.com/, check out this new social network for Christian officers: http://copsoffaithministries.ning.com/. We’ve already got our page started: http://copsoffaithministries.ning.com/profile/MCWilliams. That said, and while these are much better choices for us than Facebook (I've discontinued our pages) and My Space, let’s be VERY careful about what is posted.
PRAYER REQUESTS (Updated 2/22/10):
(1) Please pray for former Chicago PD Ofc. Louise Cole, mother of wounded Chicago PD Ofc. Densey Cole. Louise sent me the following:
I just came home from being in the hospital for the past 7 days. I have a tumor in my neck (left side) going up to the base of the skull by the artery. I have to make some major decisions soon & only God can lead me in the right direction. He spared my life this past week for sure.
(2) Speaking of Chicago: please be in prayer for the family and colleagues of the CPD sergeant who was killed there early this AM whilst en route to a burglary call (see http://www.chicagobreakingnews.com/2010/02/accident-closes-southbound-lanes-of-lake-shore.html). Retired CPD Lt. Chuck Urgo writes, "Chicago Police Sgt. Al Haymaker was a fine officer and brother in Christ. Please keep his family and co-workers in your prayers."
(3) Speaking of poor leadership in law enforcement, a Federal officer in NM has asked for prayer concerning how that issue is impacting her current and future career decisions.
(4) Be in prayer for the officers and staff of the Grand Junction (CO) Police Department (a number of departmental and personal issues). They have an outstanding new chief whom I hope will provide godly leadership. In addition, pray for those officers and staff who are considering starting their own Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO) chapter. I’m also pushing for GJPD to start a chaplain program.
(5) As posted above, Chief Sean Wallace (Arkansas City, KS) called this morning asking for prayer for his wife. Robin has been rushed to the hospital due to a heart problem.
(6) Finally, keep me in prayer as I lead this ministry and prepare to teach/preach at a retreat conference in Glen Eyrie next month.
Hope to see you Thursday. In the interim, let’s stay the course and finish strong out there!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
CSP Trooper Scott Hinshaw to Speak This Thursday!
Dear Brothers and Sisters:
Right off, I want to encourage everyone in and/or visiting the Denver Metro area to join us this Thursday at 7:00 PM for an unforgettable, “must see” presentation by Colorado State Patrol Trooper Scott Hinshaw. As many of you may remember, Scott sustained horrific injuries in the same line-of-duty incident that took the life of fellow CSP Trooper Zach Templeton in October of 2007. Scott, a true “cop’s cop,” has been through numerous surgeries in what continues to be the fight of his life. I don’t want to give too much away, but Scott’s inspiring story ties right in with my recent message on what it means to be in/seek God’s will and the corresponding “Why bad things happen to ‘good’ people” presentation. Please invite a friend/colleague and join us Thursday at Calvary South Denver, 9052 Ken Caryl Avenue in Littleton.
Remember that this will be our LAST meeting for 2009 (no meetings December 24th or 31st). I will of course have special CHRISTmas and New Year’s messages in our upcoming newsletters/website posts – stay tuned!
FIRST ANNUAL TCLEF CHRISTMAS PARTY (& other announcements)!!
(1) Don’t forget that JeffCo Dep. Art Briles and his wife Lonni are hosting our first annual TCLEF CHRISTmas potluck party this Saturday (12/14/09) starting at 1500 hours. Please email me if you plan to attend (all are welcome) and I’ll provide their Sheridan address near Federal and Hampden. I’ll also send out a reminder with more details later this week. Please plan on joining us!
(2) We’re now listed on PoliceOne.com! Check it out at http://www.policeone.com/police-blogs/page-2/. I’ve included a link on our website both in the LINKS section and at the bottom just above the counter. PoliceOne provides outstanding training info – check regularly.
(3) Christian writer Kristi Neace, who is also a police spouse, has written a book for the wives of LEOs entitled “Lives Behind the Badge.” Go to http://www.kristineace.com/ or http://englishmountainpress.com/ebooks/NeaceKristi/index.htm for more.
(4) Ft. Hood Police Department Sgt. Kimberly Munley now has a blog site that details her recovery in the aftermath of being shot when she and Sgt. Mark Todd confronted and stopped terrorist Nidal Hasan on November 5th. Kim covets our prayers as she undergoes a potentially career-ending total knee replacement surgery in January. Follow her progress and send encouraging messages to Kim at http://sgtmunley.blogspot.com/.
MESSAGE RECAP:
Last week’s message centered on the importance of BALANCE in our lives as peace officers. As I’ve often “preached” – and I was among the worst offenders – our calling as LEOs does not mean that we should be living “the job” and making the badge our “god.” Exodus 20:1-6 provides the prime scriptural reference for this theme. The second Commandment (v. 3) says, “You shall have no other gods before me.” What does “god” refer to? In brief, it is anything – ANYTHING – that we put first in our lives aside from our Lord and/or anything that becomes our identity outside of our relationship with Christ. God made us His sheepdogs – but He requires RELATIONSHIP with Him first and foremost. Moreover, His Word (the Bible) provides a wealth of references to what our priorities MUST be: God first, family, then our work. This point is repeatedly highlighted through our appallingly high rate of suicide, alcoholism, divorce and related issues. In fact, I recently received a very sad email that very decidedly underscores this issue: a retired officer took his own life on the steps of his PD! Was life after “the job” so empty that it was the catalyst for this kind of tragedy? The truth is that injury, illness, a mistake, and a plethora of other issues can end our careers at a moment’s notice. Is law enforcement the only real purpose and meaning in your life? Is your self-esteem based on what you do as a cop? If so, it is most assuredly outside of God’s will for your life. If this is you, I strongly suggest that you re-evaluate your priorities, repent, and ask God to help you establish the proper balance. Affirm with our Lord your desire to be known by who you are in Him versus what you do. If you need help in this area, please feel free to contact me! For more, check out Os Hillman’s short devotional on the subject: http://www.marketplaceleaders.org/apps/articles/default.asp?articleid=55898&columnid=5098.
LAKEWOOD (WA) MEMORIAL SERVICE:
I was able to catch a few moments of the memorial service for our Lakewood PD brothers/sister last week. I’ve attended a great many police funerals and I have to say that this one was the most impressive – truly first class. The sight of 3000 police units, 20,000+ officers (including more than 1000 squared-away RCMP), outstanding public support, and so much more was truly awe-inspiring. In regards to Ofc. Tina Griswold, her tribute made it perfectly clear that our fellow servant-warrior was a Christian – and a Christian first! Retired RCMP Officer David Greenhalgh (his son -- a current RCMP troop -- was in attendance) sent the following link which includes Tina’s tribute via a close family friend who also quotes Ecclesiastes 3:11! Please take the time to watch: http://www.kirotv.com/video/21901949/index.html.
Here are some additional links to the service, including a video tribute to all four officers (Note the music Tina’s family selected – oohrah!): http://www.kirotv.com/video/21902473/index.html; Flag presentation and final radio call: http://www.king5.com/video/featured-videos/Watch-Flags-presented-final-radio-call-78827347.html.
I don’t know if the other officers knew Christ or not. What about you? Do you know Him as Savior? If not, get RIGHT with him now as tomorrow may very well be too late. See last week’s post for more…
PRAYER REQUESTS:
(1) Today is Tayler Ellison’s 5th birthday (daughter of Englewood PD Officer Shane Ellison). Unlike most of us, this little warrior had to spend her birthday undergoing yet another round of chemo for the brain cancer issues she has battled most of her young life. Tayler and her family covet your prayers.
(2) Officer Joseph Buford from Highland Park, MI sent the following: I am asking for prayers regarding the untimely passing of one of our reserve officers, Dwayne Taylor. Dwayne passed last night from his own hand during an hour of depression that overtook him. Dwayne was an outstanding officer and a dear friend… Let’s join Joe in keeping Dwayne’s family and colleagues in our prayers.
(3) Eastpointe (MI) Police Chaplain James Friedman is requesting prayer for his wife Lee who underwent major surgery earlier today.
(4) Join me in praying for TCLEF “Dad” Erv Meyer who is suffering from a degenerative medical condition that is forcing him to move to a warmer, lower-altitude locale. Erv has been a mainstay of this ministry from “day one” and is a true “sheepdog” in every sense. “We love you brother!!”
(5) Mahnomen (MN) County Deputy Chris Dewey and his wife Emily really need your continued prayers as he rehabs at Craig Hospital here in Denver. I can’t begin to adequately describe all that Chris and Em have been through/are going through since Chris was ambushed and shot in the head early this year. See more at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/chrisdewey.
(6) Be in prayer for a colleague in Grand Junction who is battling some severe health issues of her own.
(7) As you know, we’ve been in prayer for Denver PD Ofc. Allison Casias and JeffCo Detective Art Peterson. Allison was recently honored by her PD for helping lift the stolen truck off of Art in Englewood earlier this year. Art has reportedly improved enough that he may soon be returning to duty (I consider this a miracle) while Allison has improved enough to go home while continuing her rehab. Let’s continue to keep both in prayer.
(8) Finally, please continue to remember wounded Chicago PD Officer Densey Cole in your prayers. This brother may be facing a truly daunting future (spiritual and physical) and is very much in need of God’s intervention and protection.
As always, send me your prayer requests and I’ll post them here as appropriate (and pray for you regardless).
Right off, I want to encourage everyone in and/or visiting the Denver Metro area to join us this Thursday at 7:00 PM for an unforgettable, “must see” presentation by Colorado State Patrol Trooper Scott Hinshaw. As many of you may remember, Scott sustained horrific injuries in the same line-of-duty incident that took the life of fellow CSP Trooper Zach Templeton in October of 2007. Scott, a true “cop’s cop,” has been through numerous surgeries in what continues to be the fight of his life. I don’t want to give too much away, but Scott’s inspiring story ties right in with my recent message on what it means to be in/seek God’s will and the corresponding “Why bad things happen to ‘good’ people” presentation. Please invite a friend/colleague and join us Thursday at Calvary South Denver, 9052 Ken Caryl Avenue in Littleton.
Remember that this will be our LAST meeting for 2009 (no meetings December 24th or 31st). I will of course have special CHRISTmas and New Year’s messages in our upcoming newsletters/website posts – stay tuned!
FIRST ANNUAL TCLEF CHRISTMAS PARTY (& other announcements)!!
(1) Don’t forget that JeffCo Dep. Art Briles and his wife Lonni are hosting our first annual TCLEF CHRISTmas potluck party this Saturday (12/14/09) starting at 1500 hours. Please email me if you plan to attend (all are welcome) and I’ll provide their Sheridan address near Federal and Hampden. I’ll also send out a reminder with more details later this week. Please plan on joining us!
(2) We’re now listed on PoliceOne.com! Check it out at http://www.policeone.com/police-blogs/page-2/. I’ve included a link on our website both in the LINKS section and at the bottom just above the counter. PoliceOne provides outstanding training info – check regularly.
(3) Christian writer Kristi Neace, who is also a police spouse, has written a book for the wives of LEOs entitled “Lives Behind the Badge.” Go to http://www.kristineace.com/ or http://englishmountainpress.com/ebooks/NeaceKristi/index.htm for more.
(4) Ft. Hood Police Department Sgt. Kimberly Munley now has a blog site that details her recovery in the aftermath of being shot when she and Sgt. Mark Todd confronted and stopped terrorist Nidal Hasan on November 5th. Kim covets our prayers as she undergoes a potentially career-ending total knee replacement surgery in January. Follow her progress and send encouraging messages to Kim at http://sgtmunley.blogspot.com/.
MESSAGE RECAP:
Last week’s message centered on the importance of BALANCE in our lives as peace officers. As I’ve often “preached” – and I was among the worst offenders – our calling as LEOs does not mean that we should be living “the job” and making the badge our “god.” Exodus 20:1-6 provides the prime scriptural reference for this theme. The second Commandment (v. 3) says, “You shall have no other gods before me.” What does “god” refer to? In brief, it is anything – ANYTHING – that we put first in our lives aside from our Lord and/or anything that becomes our identity outside of our relationship with Christ. God made us His sheepdogs – but He requires RELATIONSHIP with Him first and foremost. Moreover, His Word (the Bible) provides a wealth of references to what our priorities MUST be: God first, family, then our work. This point is repeatedly highlighted through our appallingly high rate of suicide, alcoholism, divorce and related issues. In fact, I recently received a very sad email that very decidedly underscores this issue: a retired officer took his own life on the steps of his PD! Was life after “the job” so empty that it was the catalyst for this kind of tragedy? The truth is that injury, illness, a mistake, and a plethora of other issues can end our careers at a moment’s notice. Is law enforcement the only real purpose and meaning in your life? Is your self-esteem based on what you do as a cop? If so, it is most assuredly outside of God’s will for your life. If this is you, I strongly suggest that you re-evaluate your priorities, repent, and ask God to help you establish the proper balance. Affirm with our Lord your desire to be known by who you are in Him versus what you do. If you need help in this area, please feel free to contact me! For more, check out Os Hillman’s short devotional on the subject: http://www.marketplaceleaders.org/apps/articles/default.asp?articleid=55898&columnid=5098.
LAKEWOOD (WA) MEMORIAL SERVICE:
I was able to catch a few moments of the memorial service for our Lakewood PD brothers/sister last week. I’ve attended a great many police funerals and I have to say that this one was the most impressive – truly first class. The sight of 3000 police units, 20,000+ officers (including more than 1000 squared-away RCMP), outstanding public support, and so much more was truly awe-inspiring. In regards to Ofc. Tina Griswold, her tribute made it perfectly clear that our fellow servant-warrior was a Christian – and a Christian first! Retired RCMP Officer David Greenhalgh (his son -- a current RCMP troop -- was in attendance) sent the following link which includes Tina’s tribute via a close family friend who also quotes Ecclesiastes 3:11! Please take the time to watch: http://www.kirotv.com/video/21901949/index.html.
Here are some additional links to the service, including a video tribute to all four officers (Note the music Tina’s family selected – oohrah!): http://www.kirotv.com/video/21902473/index.html; Flag presentation and final radio call: http://www.king5.com/video/featured-videos/Watch-Flags-presented-final-radio-call-78827347.html.
I don’t know if the other officers knew Christ or not. What about you? Do you know Him as Savior? If not, get RIGHT with him now as tomorrow may very well be too late. See last week’s post for more…
PRAYER REQUESTS:
(1) Today is Tayler Ellison’s 5th birthday (daughter of Englewood PD Officer Shane Ellison). Unlike most of us, this little warrior had to spend her birthday undergoing yet another round of chemo for the brain cancer issues she has battled most of her young life. Tayler and her family covet your prayers.
(2) Officer Joseph Buford from Highland Park, MI sent the following: I am asking for prayers regarding the untimely passing of one of our reserve officers, Dwayne Taylor. Dwayne passed last night from his own hand during an hour of depression that overtook him. Dwayne was an outstanding officer and a dear friend… Let’s join Joe in keeping Dwayne’s family and colleagues in our prayers.
(3) Eastpointe (MI) Police Chaplain James Friedman is requesting prayer for his wife Lee who underwent major surgery earlier today.
(4) Join me in praying for TCLEF “Dad” Erv Meyer who is suffering from a degenerative medical condition that is forcing him to move to a warmer, lower-altitude locale. Erv has been a mainstay of this ministry from “day one” and is a true “sheepdog” in every sense. “We love you brother!!”
(5) Mahnomen (MN) County Deputy Chris Dewey and his wife Emily really need your continued prayers as he rehabs at Craig Hospital here in Denver. I can’t begin to adequately describe all that Chris and Em have been through/are going through since Chris was ambushed and shot in the head early this year. See more at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/chrisdewey.
(6) Be in prayer for a colleague in Grand Junction who is battling some severe health issues of her own.
(7) As you know, we’ve been in prayer for Denver PD Ofc. Allison Casias and JeffCo Detective Art Peterson. Allison was recently honored by her PD for helping lift the stolen truck off of Art in Englewood earlier this year. Art has reportedly improved enough that he may soon be returning to duty (I consider this a miracle) while Allison has improved enough to go home while continuing her rehab. Let’s continue to keep both in prayer.
(8) Finally, please continue to remember wounded Chicago PD Officer Densey Cole in your prayers. This brother may be facing a truly daunting future (spiritual and physical) and is very much in need of God’s intervention and protection.
As always, send me your prayer requests and I’ll post them here as appropriate (and pray for you regardless).
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