Iron Sharpens Iron and Sheepdogs on the Wall

Here's a repost of our last two Centurion e-newsletters/Bible studies:
(1) Iron Sharpens Iron
and
(2) Sheepdogs on the Wall

Blessings

MC

The Posture of Your Heart

This week's newsletter and Bible study has once again gone out to our email subscribers (FREE) but, as always, I've reproduced it here as well. Be sure to pray, read, heed and share "The Posture of Your Heart." Also special thanks to fellow Chaplain Jack Crans for sharing his message/study with us!

Stay safe (but bold in Christ)!

MC

A Cop's Testimony

Colleagues:

This week's Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry & FCPO newsletter and LE devotional has gone out to our worldwide list of subscribers (it's FREE -- just click the "join" link on the newsletter) but here it is again:  A Cop's Testimony.  In addition, there are new prayer requests posted in the updated post from last week -- just scroll down. 

Don't forget that we are NOT meeting this week as it is our normal "5th Thursday off."  However, the local meeting schedules -- including that of the new FCPO chapter meeting in Castle Rock -- have been updated (look left, scroll down) where you'll see that we'll be back at it next week (Thursday, Feb. 7th)  at Calvary South Denver in Littleton.  Details to follow in next week's newsletter and here on this website in next week's post.  Stay tuned (and pass the word). 

Let's stay safe out there while being wholly bold in Christ.

MC

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.

Called to Battle!

The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry Newsletter

* DON'T FORGET TO VOTE!!! *

Hope all my fellow Christian Peacekeepers are staying vigilant and in God’s word (the Bible) as we continue to serve in our God-ordained profession.

First off (for our locals and visitors), please remember that -- per previous announcements on this site at at last week's fellowship -- we are NOT meeting this Thursday (10/14). Don't forget to check back back frequently for the latest prayer requests and local meeting schedule updates.

Today's newsletter includes some outstanding resources inspired by retired Denver PD Officer Mark Roggeman’s presentation at last Thursday’s Centurion/FCPO chapter meeting. Our focus was on how we can best minister to colleagues and members of the public who are involved in Mormonism (Latter-Day Saints -- LDS) – which means educating ourselves as to what Mormons believe. First, it is important to understand that Jesus, as revealed in the Bible, is simply "a god" to the Mormons. As such, they are not Christians by definition and are therefore lost (no matter how “good” they -- or any of us for that matter -- may be). Jesus tells us in John 14:6, I AM the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

So who is the real Jesus? He is the Christ, God the Son, the ONLY way to salvation, and most definitely NOT Lucifer’s “half-brother” or as otherwise decribed in the LDS false theology. Please take the time to check out the following resources in an effort to help you better understand this growing but misguided “faith” movement. Most importantly, let’s be sure that we come alongside our Mormon friends and colleagues in love and prayer while at the same truly living (modeling) the truth of God’s complete and innerent word.

Resources to better understanding Mormonism:

-- www.mrm.org (click on "Introductory Issues" and "Evangelism & Dialogue") -- covers just about everything on the subject.

-- http://www.gotquestions.org/Mormons.html

-- http://www.gotquestions.org/Mormon-Christian.html

-- Reasoning from the Scriptures with the Mormons by Ron Rhodes (see link on the gotquestions.org pages above).

-- Super LDS Resource: http://www.leaderu.com/offices/michaeldavis/docs/mormonism/index.html.

-- http://www.calvaryaurora.org/resources/apologetics/ and scroll down to “Mormonism.”

-- Ofc. Mark Roggeman can be contacted through Haven Ministries (http://www.havenministry.com/ – an excellent apologetics resource in itself) or via email at MRoggeman@aol.com.

Speaking of Mormonism and the real Jesus, check out the following from Mickey Koerner in Utah (also included in the latest prayer request list on our website):

Hi All,
I don't know if you remember or not, but a UVU student was sexually assaulted, beaten, and left for dead in July 2010 on the Provo trail inside Provo city limits. She survived, but her face and jaw were so badly beaten she couldn't and still can't talk. She used sign language to communicate with the police and they found her attacker.
UVU is having a fundraiser for her next week and I am NOT ASKING YOU FOR MONEY, but prayer. She is in need of 2-3 more surgeries to restore her face/jaw and also the emotional healing is going to be a battle.
One other thing to pray about -- our area is in desperate need of the REAL Jesus.

This week's DEVOTIONAL!

Check out the following Scripture-based, profession-relevant devotional from Charles Stanley:

Called to Battle!

Many Christians don't realize that they are in a battle. We have an Enemy who opposes us in every way--his purpose is to prevent us from becoming who God wants us to be and achieving what He'd have us do. The Devil frustrates our plans, confuses our minds, and brings feelings of anxiety and despair. But he doesn't stop there; he also stirs up disunity in our relationships, work places and even our churches.

There are several things that Christians should understand about this combat:
The battle is real, even if we can't see it. The difficulty, pain, and discouragement Satan causes are genuine. His temptations are not imaginary; they overwhelm and lure us away from the Lord.

The battle is spiritual. Our struggle is not with one another but with invisible forces of wickedness. Although the conflict is waged in the spiritual realm, it impacts every part of us--our mind, will, emotions, desires, and even our bodies.

The battle is tough. The Adversary fights dirty, and the encounter is "up close and personal." Our confrontation with the forces of evil is like spiritual hand-to-hand combat and flesh-to-flesh wrestling. He has a host of demonic beings who work unceasingly, even when we sleep. As long as we are on earth, the war will continue.

Although the Enemy is strong, there isn't reason to fear--he's no match for Christ, who lives within us. We've been entrusted with Jesus' divine power over the Evil One. However, we can access the Son's authority only by submitting to His lordship and walking in obedience to His Spirit.

Amen to that!

LT. COL. DAVE GROSSMAN!

I again had the honor of assisting Dave at his latest Bulletproof Mind presentation before a packed house in Denver last week. Dave is a strong believer and quietly intertwines sound biblical principles in his teaching. I strongly recommend his presentations and books to EVERY officer. For more, go to http://www.killology.com/. Col. Grossman is a true warrior and servant-leader! I'll have new photos out soon -- stay tuned.


New Centurion LE Ministry FACEBOOK Page!

As many are already aware, I deleted our former Facebook pages due to some security concerns and problems with some of my “friends” and their off-duty behavior. However, we’re up and running again in a new format: Log onto http://www.facebook.com/ and search “Fcpo Denver” and/or “The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry.”


Corrections Staff Fellowship (CSF) Daily Devotional!

Go to http://www.csfministries.org/ and click on the “Get Power” button to be signed up for CSF “Daily Power” emails (or simply go to http://www.csfministries.org/DailyPower.htm). Great stuff!


ON PREACHING CHRIST CRUCIFIED

Tulsa PD Captain Travis Yates of Ten-Four Ministries sent the following in his latest Centurion Papers mailing that I feel led to share with all of you:

I just returned from a police agency and had the opportunity to proclaim the Gospel of Christ to the officers present. Each time I am given the honor to preach Christ Crucified I am painfully reminded of the lack of this very preaching behind our pulpits. I have also seen so much pain and hurt towards my own pastor and much of it is his faithful preaching of Christ crucified. It is hard for me to understand why this basic tenant of Christianity is left behind today. John Stott offers some interesting insights on this very issue from his commentary on Galatians.

"What is there about the cross of Christ which angers the world and stirs them up to persecute those who preach it? Just this: Christ died on the cross for us sinners, becoming a curse for us (Gal. 3:13). So the cross tells us some very unpalatable truths about ourselves, namely that we are sinners under the righteous curse of God's law and we cannot save ourselves. Christ bore our sin and curse precisely because we could gain release from them in no other way. If we could have been forgiven by our own good works, by being circumcised and keeping the law, we may be quite sure that there would have been no cross. Every time we look at the cross Christ seems to say to us, 'I am here because of you. It is your sin I am bearing, your curse I am suffering, your debt I am paying, your death I am dying.' Nothing in history or in the universe cuts us down to size like the cross. All of us have inflated views of ourselves, especially in self-righteousness, until we have visited a place called Calvary. It is there, at the foot of the cross that we shrink to our true size. And of course men do not like it. They resent the humiliation of seeing themselves as God sees them and as they really are. They prefer their comfortable illusions. So they steer clear of the cross. They construct a Christianity without the cross, which relies for salvation on their works and not on Jesus Christ's. They do not object to Christianity so long as it is not the faith of Christ crucified. But Christ crucified they detest. And if we preach Christ crucified, we are opposed, ridiculed, persecuted. Why? Because of the wounds they inflict on men's pride."

As always, know that I’m available should you need prayer or someone to talk to. Let’s stay strong in Christ while serving and protecting all those He placed in our care!

Finally, just another reminder to VOTE (I can't tell you how to vote but our call as Christians is clearly to pray and be biblically correct instead of "PC")!

Slaying the Giants

Fellow Paladins:

The use of the word “paladin” has significant meaning for this week’s study that I’ve entitled “God’s Paladins – Slaying the Giants.” For those not “in the know,” a “paladin” is a term that originated during the early Middle Ages. Specifically, the paladins, sometimes known as the Twelve Peers, were the foremost warriors of Charlemagne's court. Paladins were prominently featured in the The Song of Roland where they represent Christian martial valor and skill. The term is also closely intertwined with the Knights of the Round Table and our Lord’s Twelve Apostles. Clearly, the word/concept is also associated with the biblical ideal of the modern day peace officer -- and thus a most relevant topic for this week’s study.

I’m excited about sharing this important message with you -- please join us if you are in the Denver area and don’t forget to pass-on this e-newsletter to your friends and colleagues. Our own Matt Wallenburg will again be leading worship and we'll have a time for fellowship and prayer. I will of course provide a detailed recap in next week’s newsletter for all our readers around the country so stay tuned!

Speaking of RECAPs…here’s the one from last week’s special 4th of July study:

Along with portions of Psalm 81, our primary text was II Chronicles 7:14, which reads,
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

Our Lord gives us three main points in this incredibly relevant passage:
(1) Humility

(2) Prayer

(3) Repentance (turning from sin)

The bottom line is this: the “idea” and yes, MIRACLE, that is (perhaps was) the United States of America was based on thoroughly biblical values. Our nation’s founding document declared INdependence from Great Britain but, with equal fervor, DEpendence on God. Even our National Anthem refers to our Lord. Unfortunately, we don’t often hear the 4th verse which reads – in part – …Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation. Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just. And this be our motto: "In God is our trust.”

Sadly and tragically, we have fallen away from our Christian roots and are reaping the consequences. I fear for the country I love and have served for the last twenty-five years.

One of my heroes, Patrick Henry, wrote, “Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, Give me Liberty, or give me Death!” (see http://libertyonline.hypermall.com/henry-liberty.html for the full speech). Perhaps more importantly, Henry also wrote, “It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists but by Christians, not on religions, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ."

Here are two more relevant quotes:

-- "Providence (God) has given to our people the choice of their rulers and it is the duty as well as the privilege and interest of a Christian nation to select and prefer Christians for their rulers." - U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice (hmm!), John Jay.

-- “Let us look forward to the time when we can take the flag of our country and nail it below the Cross, and there let it wave as it waved in the olden times, and let us gather around it an inscribed for our motto: "Liberty and Union, one and inseparable, now and forever," and exclaim, Christ first, our country next!" -- Andrew Johnson, 17th President of the United States.

That said, how can America be restored? I believe that the future of our country will be either national revival or total destruction. We are witnessing the collapse of moral and ethical values unlike any other time in our nation’s history and our current elected leadership (shame on us) is taking us down a path of godlessness while spending and taxing us into total oblivion.

The essence of what our Lord is requiring of Christians in America is REPENTANCE. We MUST be on our knees for our country and put into practice the timeless and relevant lessons of II Chronicles 7:14. While our Lord may indeed be coming soon (“Come quickly, Lord Jesus” – Revelation 22:20 -- http://bible.cc/revelation/22-20.htm), for our children’s sake, we MUST seek our Lord’s mercy on America.

For more on this topic, I suggest the following article by Chuck Colson: http://www.crosswalk.com/11633747/.

Finally (and once again), check out this God-inspired moment at a rally where a Marine veteran sings a stanza of the Star Spangled Banner that very few may know about or ever heard -- not to be missed and right on target as we celebrate our nation's birthday: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I0fQd858cRc&playnext_from=TL&videos=cWNozAevym8&feature=sub.

NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS:

(1) Please check out the updated Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers website – http://www.fcpo.org/. Note the link to this year’s Conference posted at the very top (I will be in attendance). There is also a link to the upcoming Sherwood Pictures (Fireproof, Facing the Giants) movie Courageous that just completed shooting in Albany, GA – just scroll down the main page. Courageous is a movie about and for us (cops) and our families – not to be missed in 2011! Thanks to fellow FCPO board member Paul Lee in Tennessee for the reminder!

(2) I had the privilege of helping Lt. Col. Dave Grossman (http://www.killology.com/) last week during his Bulletproof Mind presentation at the Colorado State Patrol Academy. Some may not know that Dave is in fact a sworn peace officer in Illinois. Please keep Col. Grossman – a solid Christian – in prayer as he delivers his messages to peace officers, school officials, and military personnel all over the world. Dave has a heart and calling for us and it just so happens that he fully embraces the "paladin" concept. Hooah!

While at the academy I also had a chance to see wounded CSP trooper Scotty Hinshaw. Please keep this fellow warrior in prayer.

(3) Speaking of prayer, the latest prayer requests and meeting schedules are posted just below this one. I update them regularly – please check back frequently.

(4) Lt. Travis Yates of Ten-Four Ministries (linked here on our site) has started a radio outreach! Entitled Centurion Radio (no relation other than we are kindred ministries), this unique program that will highlight the latest trends in the first responder profession while integrating biblical topics throughout each show. Currently the show is scheduled for each Friday at Noon, CST. Travis has invited me to be a guest sometime in August or September. This weeks guest is none other than Tony Miano, the founder of Ten-Four Ministries. Tune in tomorrow (Friday, July 9th), at Noon CST, to hear Tony discuss how Ten-Four Ministries started, evolved and what he is doing today. You can listen to the show either live or afterwards by clicking here.

With that...
There are giants in need of slaying: to battle -- with Christ as our Captain!

PS: On a lighter note (and speaking of slaying "Giants") -- GO ROCKIES!!! Two miraculous finishes in a row!!

More Prayer Requests (Updated)

Updated (070810) PRAYER REQUESTS (see previous posts for additional):

-- Retired CPD Lt. Chuck Urgo -- a fellow FCPO national board member, sent the following: Chicago lost a fine officer yesterday. From all accounts he was not only a fine officer but a compassionate man who volunteered his time to help a blind neighbor. He was a husband, military veteran, athlete and had served the city for 11 years. Our prayers go out to his family, friends and fellow officers. I don't know where he stood with the Lord. My hope and prayer is that he had an active faith in Jesus. I would encourage every cop that has a relationship with the Lord to pray for your fellow officers, live a life worth of Christ and share your faith boldly. Be that "light in a dark place" pointing others to Jesus. You'll never know which of your co-workers may not make it to the next roll call.
http://www.suntimes.com/news/24-7/2475692,chicago-cop-shooting-070611.article

Police Officer Thor Soderberg
Chicago Police Department
End of Watch: Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Age: 43
Tour of Duty: 10 years, 11 months
Cause of Death: Gunfire
Weapon Used: Officer's handgun
Suspect Info: Shot/wounded and taken into custody.

Let's all be in prayer for Thor's family and colleagues.

-- As many of you know, former BART Officer Johannes Mehserle is currently on trial in CA. It is pretty clear to any trained officer that Johannes thought he was using a Taser and not a firearm. Please ask God to see that justice is done (this was NOT murder), that He will protect our brother/sister officers, and that cooler heads will prevail (reference the expected riots). Pray for Johannes as well. Fellow investigator Chris Orsini sent me the following: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=128375779&ft=1&f=1003.

-- A Chief writes, “On Saturday (07/03/10) morning Paul, the best man at my daughter’s wedding, was in a horrible traffic accident on his way to work. As a result of the accident he is paralyzed from the waist down, has a broken femur, shattered shoulder, 200 stitches in his face, broken ribs and a punctured lung. He had spinal surgery yesterday and has a second scheduled for next week. An off-duty cop and paramedic who were close and witnessed the accident saved his life. Please keep him in your prayers.”

-- Pray for a fellow investigator currently serving in Afghanistan with his Reserve unit (safety and that he will follow "hard after" our Lord).

-- Please pray for Illinois officer who is going through a proverbial “hell on earth” situation in relation to a use-of-force incident. Lots more to Jim’s situation than what is being played out in the media. We seek God’s intervention, truth, biblical leadership and of course that Jim would accept Christ as his Lord and Savior. Pray also for Jim’s sergeant (Dino) who is displaying outstanding courage and leadership in coming alongside our brother.

-- We continue to visit with Brownstown (MI) PD Officer Max Faistenhammer who is currently paralyzed and undergoing rehab here at Craig Hospital. Pray that our brother comes to Christ and that our Lord would grant Max healing in accordance with His perfect will. Whilst we’re at it, please continue to pray for Mahnomen County (MN) Dep. Chris Dewey and Chicago PD Ofc. Densey Cole.

-- Jason Pearson (Englewood PD) writes, "Mike Sorenson was re-admitted to Craig Hospital yesterday. Mike was shot in the line of duty some years ago and has returned due to complications from that shooting. Mike is in room #301, however he has limited visitation due to the seriousness of his new condition. Mike cannot talk out loud due to the recent complications that he suffered, but can lip words. Visits are limited to 5 minutes and please check in at the 3 West nurses station. Mike is from Wisconsin, I met him in February when he was at Craig for a re-evaluation. He is a great guy and does amazing things. " Let's keep Mike in prayer.

-- Pray for a young officer who is going through a divorce (restoration, repentance and biblical obedience, etc.). They have only been married a short time and his wife, supposedly a believer, left for other than biblical reasons (aka "sin").

-- Please keep the Chief and staff of the Grand Junction PD in your prayers (godly servant-leadership and more).

-- Pray for a colleague who is hurting and fighting for his marriage – part of which includes praying that his wife will come out of rebellion and back to the Lord. Our brother is also seeking God’s direction and will in terms of his career path and ministry.

Happy 4th of July from MC & The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry

Dear Friends, Colleagues, and Family:

Just wanted to take a moment to wish each of you a safe and blessed celebration of our nation's independence. I'll be sending out the newsletter in a day or two with a recap of last Thursday's special 4th of July Bible study. However, let's take time today to pray for this nation, our leaders who need to come to Christ, and our military brothers and sisters who, like us, are defending her. The United States is truly in a II Chronicles 7:14 time. Sin and godlessness is detroying the country I love and we MUST repent, humble ourselves, and return to our Judeo-Christian roots.

Speaking of, some of you may have seen the video of the former Marine singing one of the "forgotten" verses of the Star Spangled Banner. Here it is for this day: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I0fQd858cRc&playnext_from=TL&videos=cWNozAevym8&feature=sub.

If, like me, you are working today, then count it all joy that you will be doing your part to protect our loved ones, the citizens we serve, and the freedoms for which this nation stands. Let's stay vigilent for one another while placing our trust in Christ.

"Ooh-Rah!" (or "Hooah!" for you Army folks).

UPDATED: Emergency Prayer Requests and National Day of Prayer Announcements

Don't forget to prayer for our nation on this National Day of Prayer and (for our locals/visitors) we're meeting tonight at 1900 for profession-relevant Bible study and corporate prayer for both our nation and individual needs. Please join us.

Late Breaking Prayer Requests and Praise Reports

The following were important enough to merit a special post.

(1) Fellow FCPO national board member Chuck Urgo from Chicago just sent me the following. Please join us in praying for our WV brother:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Prayers-and-support-for-Trooper-Andy-Pringle/111975838840817?v=wall.
Chuck writes, "Andy Pringle is a good man with a wonderful wife and 3 kids. He's been a WV State Trooper in Ritchie Co over 10yrs., currently resides in Doddridge. Tragically Andy was hit by a drunk driver Sat. April, 24th and is currently in ICU at CAMC-General."

(2) Be in prayer for the Deb Mooney (wife of NMSP Lt. Pat Mooney) reference some medical issues she is dealing with -- healing, strength, full recovery. Secondly, please pray for the Mooney family in general as they lost Pat's aunt Dot -- his second "mother" -- last Saturday night.

(3) PRAISE REPORT: My chief's mother is recovering from yesterday's total knee replacement surgery. Please pray for complete recovery and strength while she undergoes the extensive physical therapy that is a major part of that procedure. She has had a few complications...pray for that as well.

(4) A North Carolina police sergeant is asking for prayer in the wake of being diagnosed with cancer.

(5) Be in prayer for a fellow Texas officer and chaplain who has been diagnosed with MS.

(6) Grant Wolf writes, "Kyle Kendall, is a former Clark County Deputy and a member of the Responder Life Team, living in Damascus (OR). His 10 year old daughter was struck by a car this afternoon when she went out to get the mail in front of their home. She was taken to OHSU by LifeFlight and is in very serious condition. Please pray for her, Kyle and their entire family!"
UPDATE: Joy Kendall, age 10, remains in critical condition at OHSU. Report from dad is that they are in “wait and see mode,” as she has significant brain swelling at this point. Continued to pray!

(7) From Grant: While trying to load a shoplifter into the County van, Bruce Mills, Pinellas County FL Deputy, fell and fractured his knee cap into to pieces, and tendons pulled those pieces away from the joints. Bruce had surgery and a hospital stay until going home. Now he’ll be on crutches and using a leg brace, with at least 6-8 weeks before returning to work. The whole thing is very painful. Bruce is also a pastor at his church, former FCPO national board member, a conference speaker and very active in many ways, so this will slow him down tremendously.

(8) The Midwest City (OK) Police Department, family and friends today are mourning the loss of Steve Owens. Steve was a man of God who was highly active in his church and was a prime example of a servant of others. Steve battled brain cancer bravely for a few years, and finally went home to his Father just a few minutes ago. I ask for you and your prayer chain to pray for Steve's family and all those who are affected by this loss.

(9) PRAISE REPORT! A NM officer thought to have had a "low-level" heart attack (sounds oxymoronic to me) has learned that he didn't have one after all. However, he does have to get healthy and lose about 60 pounds. Let's keep him in prayer. If I can limp around the gym on my bum hip (surgery next week), YOU can workout as well!

(10) Pray for a CO officer who is a Christian but is in rebellion in regards to family responsibilities and other issues. Pray that God will intervene (break) and bring our brother back into a right relationship with Him.

Happy Easter (aka Resurrection Sunday)

I stayed up late to send out a very personal and heart felt "Happy Easter" (aka Happy Resurrection Sunday) to all my fellow warriors, friends and family. We had a great turnout last Thursday for our special Easter fellowship meeting (more on that in this week's newsletter) and -- courtesy of my unpaid "day off" (aka furlough) for all employees of the State of Colorado -- I was "blessed" (half-full instead of half-empty) to be able to attend Good Friday services.

Reference same, Calvary South Denver Pastor Gino Geraci's message that "Good Friday" was indeed "good" also needs to be addressed from a "half-full" perspective: Gino rightly pointed out that while Jesus's scourging and crucifixion made for what would accurately be described as His worst day ever, it was in fact a very GOOD day for each of us inasmuch as our Lord died in our place! Yes, He took YOUR place and my place on the cross! He epitomized a true servant-warrior's love, leadership and service by laying down His life for all those who would turn to Him, sincerely seek His forgiveness, and accept Him as Lord and Savior.

But it gets even better! Like in the "infomercials," Easter/Resurrection Sunday has a "But wait...!" statement. Satan thought he had a victory on that fateful Friday but on Sunday Jesus gets up off the "canvas" on the 9th count to kick the devil's behind! By rising from the dead our Lord defeated death and the grave -- and made a way -- the ONLY way, for us who embrace Christ as Savior to overcome death and spend eternity with Him.

If you have not yet accepted Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, I urge you to do so today (see the How to Know Christ as Savior or How to be Saved links). Better yet, find a solid Bible-teaching church today and take that all-important bold step to come forward and say "yes" to Christ.

He lives! He is risen! "Love Crucified Arose" (please take 3 minutes to watch, listen and worship: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SjNeqvgMryw&feature=fvw)!

Happy Resurrection Sunday everyone -- and "Thank you Lord" for what you did for me!

Christ -- Our True "Captain & Commander"

Brothers and Sisters:

We’re back on track for our next Centurion Ministry Bible study and fellowship meeting this Thursday starting at 1900 hours at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. Our study this week is entitled, “Christ -- our Captain and Commander” and centers on the fact that, for the Christian officer/soldier, we need to understand that Christ is just that – our true “Commander in Chief.” Please invite a friend/colleague and plan on joining us this Thursday evening for this timely and relevant biblical discussion that strikes at the very heart of who we truly are as God's ordained sheepdogs/servant-warriors. Matt Wallenburg will be on hand to provide outstanding worship music to get us started. We'll also set aside time for prayer and fellowship.

Here is our updated meeting schedule:

March 25: 1900 hours, Calvary South Denver (http://www.calvarycsd.org/ for directions), Room #7.

April 1: same time/place. Join us for a special pre-Easter message!

April 8: same time/place.

April 15: NO MEETING (next scheduled break)!


Chris and Emily Dewey Celebrate Anniversary!

Wounded Mahnomen County (MN) Deputy Chris Dewey and his wife Emily are celebrating their anniversary tomorrow (March 23rd). Please keep them in prayer as Chris moves forward with his rehab back home in Minnesota. In addition, please consider a donation to Chris’s fund (see below). Emily has updated their CaringBridge site -- get the latest at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/chrisdewey.

Deputy Chris Dewey Fund
First National Bank of Mahnomen
102 N. Main or P.O. Box 378
Mahnomen, MN 56557

Law Enforcement United/COPS Fundraiser:

A colleague in NM asks for your prayerful and financial support for as they participate in the Law Enforcement United fundraiser for the families of fallen officers. Go to http://www.razoo.com/story/Team-New-Mexico-Long-Riders for details.


PRAYER REQUESTS:

(1) Pray for a fellow officer who knows the Lord but who is not living for Him (living with a woman he is not married to, financial sin, medical needs, etc.). Ask our Lord to bring physical healing, financial provision in accordance with biblical principles, and to surround him with godly Christian officers who will hold him lovingly accountable.

(2) Pray for the 5 y.o. daughter of Englewood PD Officer Shane Ellison. Little Tayler has what we are praying will be her final MRI on tomorrow (3/23). If clear, Tayler will have beaten brain cancer – cause for both celebration and – most of all – praise to our Lord. For more see http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/taylerellison (password is “taylerellison”).

(3) Pray for a Canadian officer (Mountie) who has been accused of wrongdoing. Reports I’ve received would indicate that this Christian brother is innocent but he is having difficulty finding competent representation. Ask our Lord – who knows all about false accusations – to intervene and that justice will prevail.

(4) Continue to pray for those officers all over the country who are facing layoffs or substantial pay cuts.

(5) As some of you may have heard, an on-duty (in uniform and in a marked unit) Colorado State Trooper was arrested for DUI this AM whilst en route to training at the State Patrol Academy! Not sure how all this is going to play out but, if true, it is a tough blow for an agency that prides itself on being very proactive about DUI enforcement. Secondly, we need to be praying for the Trooper (21-year veteran) and ask ourselves why we as Christian officers failed to recognize the signs in one of our own and intervene. This is both a sin issue and a “call to arms” for us to be more vigilant about coming alongside our fellow officers. See http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/136297-colorado-trooper-arrested-on-duty-for-dui for more.

(6) Finally, be in prayer for a NM officer who will be competing for a promotion opportunity with his agency. This brother is a solid Christian and has a true call to LEAD with a servant's heart (exactly the kind of leader our profession is desperate for).


Stay safe and take care of one another out there!

Meeting Reminder, Training Update, and Urgent Prayer Requests

Fellow Sheepdogs:

Just sending out some urgent mid-week prayer requests along with a reminder to our locals and visitors about tomorrow night's Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry Bible study meeting. The really great news is that our own Matt Wallenburg will be back with us to lead worship (if you’ve yet to hear Matt, he’s outstanding). Feb. 11th, 1900 hours, Calvary South Denver in Littleton , Room #7 unless our old/main spot is available. Invite a friend/ colleague and remember that spouses are always welcome.

TRAINING UPDATE:

A colleague sent me this YouTube video of the latest CPR technique from the Mayo Clinic. Very simple and reportedly very effective (no blowing – just compressions). Check it out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5huVSebZpM.


UPDATE ON DEP. CHRIS DEWEY:

Thanks to all who attended Chris’s birthday party yesterday at Craig Hospital and thanks to Michelle for setting it up and bringing the cake. Let’s continue to keep our brother in prayer. It has been nearly a year since Chris was shot in the head and liver after responding to a “shots-fired” call in Mahnomen , MN (see http://wcco.com/crime/deputy.shot.mahnomen.2.937841.html). Chris made some miraculous strides after initially being shot but complications and surgeries have set him back. Chris and his wife Emily (what an inspirational warrior she is) need our continued prayer and support.


URGENT PRAYER REQUESTS:

(1) One of my old partners in NM sent me the following (edited for our purposes):

Today I received a phone call from a dear friend of mine, Chief Jim Cook in Los Lunas , NM . This was a weird call because I could not initially understand his spoken word. He was finally able to tell me that he has stage 4 cancer in his throat/voice box and that the cancer is moving extremely fast. He starts chemo next Wednesday and begins radiation treatment after that. The cancer has spread far enough that surgery will unlikely do any good. I was also able to speak with his nurse and she stated that he is eating from a tube, and breathing from a tracheotomy tube.

There is some good to this great sadness: I asked Jim if his faith was still strong. To that he said, "my faith has only gotten stronger, and when its time to be healed my God will bring me home"

Jim has three sons, a daughter and three beautiful grandchildren. I would appreciate all the prayers that this ministry can provide. I can attest to the power of God and the abilities of this ministry (MC’s note: any success this ministry has had is totally due to the power of God). You all have prayed for my family in the past and miracles happened.

If you should have any questions or would like to send a letter or card to Chief Jim Cook, let me know. I sense that he will greatly appreciate it.

Agent Cameron P. Fisher
New Mexico Department of Public Safety
Special Investigations Division
(505)841-8053 ext. 1124

Let’s keep Jim and his family in prayer.

(2) Please continue to pray for another colleague who is battling a plethora of cancer-related issues of her own.

(3) Pray for a Western Slope officer who is recovering from an extremely painful rib injury.

(4) Pray for a Christian officer candidate who is trying to get on with an agency in Pennsylvania and needs some intervention.


More next week – let’s stay the course lead from the front. Brothers: don’t forget that Valentine’s Day should not be an excuse to work OT if you don’t have to! See ya tomorrow.

What Happens When a Cop Dies?

Fellow Paladins:

We had an outstanding meeting last Thursday (see recap below) and we’re “on” for this Thursday (01/14/10) starting at 1900 hours at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. We’ll likely be meeting in classroom #7 and will be discussing ideas and goals for the ministry in 2010. In addition, our profession-relevant Bible study will be on the topic of what happens when a cop (soldier, etc.) dies – including those who are lost in the line of duty. This is really about our “future” beyond the time God gives us in this life. There are only two destinations and the choice is totally our own. Join us on Thursday as we dig into this all-important issue of where we will spend eternity.

MESSAGE RECAP:

Last week’s message served as a great companion to this week’s teaching. What does it mean to be “a Christian?” Right off, we need to understand that saying a prayer or “walking the isle” by itself does NOT make you “saved.” So what is a Christian? A simple definition is a person who professes a saving belief in Jesus as the Christ. However, this clearly falls short of what it really means to be a true follower of our Lord. Even Satan and his demons “believe” (James 2:19). The word “Christian” is used three times in the New Testament: Acts 11:26, 26:28, and 1 Peter 4:16. Accordingly, the word “Christian” literally means, “belonging to and being a follower of Christ.”

Unfortunately over time, the word “Christian” has lost a great deal of its significance and is often used to describe someone who is religious or has high moral values but who may or may not be a true follower of Jesus Christ. Many people who do not believe and trust in Jesus Christ consider themselves "Christians" simply because they go to church or they live in a “Christian” nation. But going to church, serving those less fortunate than you, being a “good” person, or being a cop does NOT make you a Christian. In fact, simply going to church does not make you a Christian anymore than going to a garage makes you an automobile.

The Bible teaches that the good works we do cannot make us acceptable to God. Titus 3:5 says, “He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. So, a Christian is someone who has been born again by God (John 3:3; John 3:7; 1 Peter 1:23) and has put their faith and trust in Jesus Christ, including His death on the cross as payment for our sins and His resurrection. Ephesians 2:8 tells us that it is “…by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” John 1:12 tells us, “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” The mark of a true Christian is love for others and obedience to God’s Word (1 John 2:4, 10). A true Christian is indeed a child of God, a part of God’s true family, and one who has been given new life in Jesus Christ. A true Christian is also one who experiences a true change from the former self to the new – a truly CHANGED life. See James 2:14, 17, 20, 26 and http://www.gotquestions.org/salvation-faith-alone.html for more.

Finally, it is important to understand that, contrary to what the “world” teaches, there is only ONE WAY to God and one way to salvation – and that is through His Son Jesus Christ. John 14:6 says, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." See also http://www.gotquestions.org/Jesus-only-way.html.

Is that you? Do you know where you stand with God? You CAN know and you can do so today. Please read http://www.gotquestions.org/get-right-with-God.html and come to Him today. If you have questions, please shoot me an email with your phone number or, if you are a local or visitor, please join us on Thursday.

While were on the subject of where we stand with Christ, check out these very cool news pieces (outstanding stuff):

Brit Hume on Tiger Woods:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gteKuPgLy8I.

UT QB Colt McCoy (“I Am Second”): http://espn.go.com/ncf/recap?gameId=300070333


NEW POLICE MINISTRY:

Georgia Ofc. Brian Cain Canton is establishing a new law enforcement ministry. Check it out at http://www.code4ministries.com.


PRAYER REQUESTS:

(1) Please continue to pray for Chicago PD Ofc. Densey Cole and that Christian officers in the Chicago area will make it their mission to both protect and share the Gospel with our brother officer.

(2) DCIS Special Agent Dexter Wells at the Pentagon sent this update on fellow SA Dan Peterson who recently had a stroke: The local Syracuse area FLEOA (Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association) chapter has set up a fund for any contributions wished to be made to assist Dan in his recovery. The Peterson family is currently in need of funding to cover costs associated with travel between the hospital and home, parking, meals, and bills associated with Dan's hospital stay not covered by insurance. Checks may be made out to FLEOA Chapter 87 with remark "Dan Peterson Fund", and donations may be sent c/o the DCIS Syracuse Post of Duty, 441 South Salina Street, Suite 304, Syracuse, NY (Attn: Mary Kate Anton). Cards and get well wishes may also be sent c/o of the DCIS Syracuse Post of Duty, 441 South Salina Street, Suite 304, Syracuse, NY, 13202.

(3) Col. Ray Fairman in Georgia sent the following request: “I would like to add a request to the prayer list. One of my officers is in the Athens Regional Medical Center here in GA. Nick Jenkins was working his regular job for the GA DNR Police Tuesday when he suffered an acute painful episode which folks thought might be cardiac related. The next diagnosis was a possible Gallbladder attack. Both were wrong. Nick was transferred to the regional Medical center Wednesday and has under gone multiple tests. Today it appears that the doctor has located a Cyst on his Pancreas which is producing the pain and keeping him from eating any food or digesting well. It appears that “Acute Pancreatitis” is the resulting cause of Nick’s pain. He is married and has some family to support the next phase, but he would appreciate the prayer support of his brother LEOs. The doctor is going to put a feeding tube in to try and strengthen him for surgery. Please keep Nick and his family in prayer for the next few weeks while they finish testing and the upcoming surgery to remove the cyst and determine its cause.Nick is known as a Christian officer on both agencies for which he works and that is a testimony in itself these days.”

(4) Finally, let’s be in prayer for the family and colleagues of Mishawaka (Indiana) Police Cpl. James Szuba who was killed with his K-9 partner on Sunday. See http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/130570-corporal-and-k-9-killed-in-crash.

Stay strong and safe in Christ! Don't forget to pass-on this newsletter to your friends and colleagues (a great way to share Christ with others).

Meeting Reminder & "Officer Down" Update

While this message is primarily for my locals and visitors, it also gives me an opportunity to do a little extra for everyone else. First, please be sure to check your SPAM folders as for whatever reason (Suggestions anyone??) the newsletter sometimes ends up there -- clearly the work of the devil! LOL

Secondly...
MEETING REMINDER: We're "on" for our first meeting of 2010 tomorrow (Thursday) night from 1900-2000+ at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. We'll likely be in classroom #7 as our "regular" meeting spot just inside the doors (MP room) will probably be taken. Invite your spouses and colleagues for a great hour + of solid profession-relevant Bible study, great warrior fellowship, and corporate prayer. Yes, I AM aware that the National Championship game is tomorrow. This is why God invented Tevo and DVR! See ya at 1900.

And finally, we're now up to 4 fellow officers killed in the first 6 days of the new year. Please be in prayer for the husband, kids, family and colleagues of Millard County (UT) Dep. Josie Greathouse Fox who was gunned down yesterday by a previously deported illegal alien (there is so much wrong with this issue that I don't even know where to begin). Said suspect was, praise God, apprehended this morning. See http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/130247-suspect-in-utah-officer-slaying-found-sleeping and http://odmp.org/officer/20208-deputy-sheriff-josie-greathouse-fox for more.

Stay safe out there...meaning that we actively seek Christ as both our Chief and partner in our policing efforts while at the same time keeping both our spiritual (Ephesians 6:10-18) and physical armor cinched up tight.

Welcome to 2010!

Fellow Sheepdogs:

Welcome to 2010! I know that for many of us 2009 was a very tough year indeed. While adversity is both a part of life and definitely a part of God’s “training regimen” for His own, my hope and prayer is that 2010 will be a better year for all of us as we eagerly await our Lord’s return (see http://www.gotquestions.org/difference-Rapture-Second-Coming.html) and all that comes with it. That said, we must continue to -- as my friend and pastor Sam Park likes to say (paraphrasing 2 Tim. 4:7) “stay the course and finish strong,” both in terms of own walk with Christ and sharing Him with others.

MEETING SCHEDULE for locals and visitors:

We’re “ON” for our first meeting of 2010 this Thursday (01/07/10) at Calvary South Denver, 9052 Ken Caryl Avenue, Littleton. Start time is 1900 and we’ll meet in Classroom #7 (past the café and turn right into the children’s ministry area) unless the Multi-Purpose room is free. Don’t forget to invite your spouses and law enforcement colleagues!

This week’s study will center on what is means to “a Christian” (and a Christian cop in particular). Are you a true believer or just a “make believer?” Are you sure? You can be! Join us Thursday for THE answer!

NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS:

-- The Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers (FCPO) website has been updated and more changes are forthcoming. Go to http://www.fcpo.org/ or click on the FCPO link right here on our website. One of our 2010 ministry goals is to see us become a FCPO chapter. Keep us in your prayers as we begin this endeavor.

-- Speaking of FCPO, retired Exec. Director Grant Wolf is in the process of obtaining 365 stories for a forthcoming book. Would you like to share your law enforcement testimony with others in a published format? Here is an example of what Grant is seeking:

While working midnights as a Detective on the North Side of Chicago. My partner and I were parked in a dark parking lot when a Cadillac pulled up. Two guys got out, and broke into a car and within 20-seconds had it started and they were driving away. We followed, asking for back up. We pulled in front of and to the side of the stolen car. I managed to grab one of the offenders who had jumped out. Then I heard my partner yelling. The driver of the stolen car had jumped out, leaving the car running and in gear, pinning my partner against the front passenger door. I was able to get the car in reverse and my partner fell to the ground writhing in pain. I yelled a prayer out loud and asked the Lord for mercy. Miraculously my partner got up and was able to walk. He was back to work after one day off. What an attestation of God’s Power and Grace!

This is a once-in-a-lifetime project and your contributions have the potential to truly bless other officers while at the same time providing a great testimony to the civilian population. Please contact Grant at police_stories@yahoo.com for more details.

-- We have just chartered a brand new Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) chapter in the Denver/Front Range area. FOP Lodge #100 is primarily for CO officers serving in agencies that are not already represented. Please contact Troy Cooper at tcooper8899@msn.com for details.

-- TRAINING! Those looking for another source of outstanding low-cost law enforcement training in Colorado should check out the Central Mountain Training Foundation at http://www.cmtftraining.com/.


PRAYER REQUESTS:

-- Mahnomen (MN) County Deputy Chris Dewey will be heading back to Minnesota later this month and his wife Emily is seeking an appropriate facility there as Chris will need ongoing rehab. Please be in prayer about that while at the same time asking God to give them strength, healing and recovery. Emily needs your prayers as well as caring for her husband and the stress of his impending move is very draining on her. I visited and prayed with them just after Christmas and Emily's commitment to her warrior husband is awe-inspiring. Follow their progress and lend your support via their CaringBridge site: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/chrisdewey.

-- Englewood (CO) PD Officer Shane Ellison’s 5 y.o. daughter needs your continued prayer as she battles brain cancer. Follow Tayler’s progress at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/taylerellison/mystory (viewing password is “taylerellison”).

-- Pray for Ft. Hood PD Sgt. Kim Munley as she prepares for major surgery. See http://sgtmunley.blogspot.com/2009/12/december-23-2009-great-news.html.

-- Fellow Colorado State Criminal Investigator Jimmy Wattles (of Gangland fame) writes, “I just learned that a retired Colorado State investigator is going through quite a battle with Mantel Cell Lymphoma. After numerous chemo treatments, he is now out of state enduring a stem cell treatment to rebuild destroyed bone marrow. This man is a believer and knows the power of prayer!” Please keep this brother in prayer.

-- I've received additional prayer requests for wounded Chicago PD Ofc. Densey Cole. Lots of folks both worried and (praise God) paying attention.

-- Finally, we’ve already lost three officers this new year (I include the court officer who was killed in Vegas today: http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/130103-court-officer-killed-in-courthouse-shooting-video). See also http://www.odmp.org/. Pray for these officers' families and for the recovery of the wounded U.S. Deputy Marshal.

May God keep us all safely in His care. Stay vigilant!