My hope is that you have both survived and thrived through Christmas. Now the New Year is fast approaching and many of us will be serving in the chaos and miscreant activity that typifies the holiday – and we will be putting our lives on the line as we do so. Accordingly let me again urge you to be sure you have a right standing with God in Christ – the eternal definition of “officer safety” by His perfect standard (the Bible). Read on for more…
If you’re in the Denver area, we invite you to join us this Thursday (Dec. 29th) at Calvary South Denver in Littleton (www.CalvaryCSD.org for directions) for our final Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry/FCPO-Denver “Cop Church” fellowship of 2011 where I’ll be teaching a very interactive, profession/life-relevant Bible study that I’ve entitled Trusting Your “Gut” (“Feelings” vs. God’s Word). I’ll of course submit a detailed RECAP in next week’s newsletter – stay tuned!
New Year’s Resolutions (“A Cop’s New Year”):
The New Year will also give rise to the proverbial “resolutions” that often mimic the Christian walk of many of us: starts out with a sprint but then fades to a crawl (or not moving at all). The same can be said for many law enforcement careers: we start out with “gung-ho,” change-the-world enthusiasm but end-up as RODs (“retired on duty” officers) long before we turn in our shields. My prayer for each of you in 2012 is that you will seek the power of the Holy Spirit for both a renewed and sustained commitment to your relationship with Christ and your families as well as to the “ministry” of law enforcement. Let’s run hard and finish strong in the power of the Lord!
Is Christ your true Lord and Savior? If your life ended today do you KNOW for sure where you would spend eternity? On what authority? Have you repented (a “180”) of your sin, sought God’s forgiveness and entered into a life-saving/life-changing relationship with Him through His Son? Perhaps you “feel” that you are already a Christian yet there is no EVIDENCE that would PROVE you “guilty” of being a true believer in a court of law. If either of these describes your “condition,” let me strongly encourage you to scroll down the left side of this website to True Officer Safety ( How Can I Be Saved?). There you will find a series of links that will help you make a decision for Christ – TODAY. The third link under that heading -- Are you Sure? -- will take you to a page on my fellow warrior Travis Yates’ Ten-Four Ministries website (www.tenfourministries.org/knowGod.php) where you will find some outstanding teaching videos and other resources that will truly help you understand what it means to be a Christian.
The following Bible verses are a great way to begin “A Cop’s New Year” (renew your walk with God and help deepen your commitment to living your Christian faith):
New Birth - A True and Living Hope
1 Peter 1:3
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. (NIV)
A New Hope and Future
Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. (NLT)
A New Heart
Ezekiel 36:25-27
"Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. Your filth will be washed away, and you will no longer worship idols. And I will give you a new heart with new and right desires, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony heart of sin and give you a new, obedient heart. And I will put my Spirit in you so you will obey my laws and do whatever I command. (NLT)
Forgetting the Past and Embracing the “2nd Chance”
Philippians 3:13-14
No, dear brothers and sisters, I am still not all I should be, but I am focusing all my energies on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us up to heaven. (NLT)
2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. (NKJV)
Learning to Live in the Present
Matthew 6:33-34
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (NIV)
Strength & Courage for the Battle
Isaiah 41:10
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. (NLT)
Isaiah 40:31
Yet those who wait (trust) for the LORD will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary. (NASB)
Joshua 1:9
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. (NIV)
RESOLVE in 2012 to LIVE and SHARE your faith with others (including simply passing on our newsletters, website info and brochures or inviting a colleague to join us on a Thursday evening). My own pastor, Sam Park of Calvary South Denver, shares my heart to make 2012 a “Year of Evangelism.” Take a moment to read from his Tuesday Night Dialogue (the Tuesday night service that I and many TCLEM/FCPO-Denver folks also attend) Newsletter:
“…I want to share my heart with you by URGING you to make this year a year of personal evangelism. By "personal evangelism", I don't mean that you have to share the whole plan of the Gospel and lead someone in the "Sinner's prayer" every time you speak to them. What I'm talking about is simply being vocal about your faith by living it "out loud" more this year than you did in 2011.
When I worked at the Auto Club of Southern CA, I took my Bible with me and kept it on my desk in very plain sight. And during my breaks, I would read it in the break room. People would ask me all the time, "What are you reading?" I'd tell them that I was reading "God's Word." And many times that would lead into lengthy conversations… I never had to stand in the middle of my office to "preach" the Gospel to anyone but because I was living my faith "out loud", everyone knew what I was about. Throughout the years, I had the privilege of bringing many of my co-workers to church and seeing many of them accept the Lord, all because I was living my faith "out loud".
My challenge to you is to just live your faith "out loud" and be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit as you progress through this coming year.”
I concur! Resolve to not let “officer safety” to cross over into being “safe” about sharing Christ with others. Rather, let’s resolve to loudly (boldly) live is (as) Christ (Philippians 1:21) in 2012 and beyond.
Finally, please take a moment to join us in praying for all those requesting same – the latest PRAYER REQUESTS have been posted here on our website (next post below) and many are quite pressing.
Have a great New Year in Christ!
Showing posts with label Tuesday Night Dialogue. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tuesday Night Dialogue. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Newsletter Issues & Announcements
Fellow Servant-Warriors:
Due to ongoing issues with the way I currently send out the newsletter (Yahoo mail), this week's version will be posted here on the website only this week (stay tuned). I'm continuing to work on the problem -- please bear with me.
The Denver-Area Meeting Schedule is posted here on our website --"eyes left" -- and is updated regularly. We are in fact meeting tonight as scheduled starting at 1900 hours (7 PM for civilians:) at Calvary South Denver in Littleton -- High School Room if finished, Cafe if not. I'll be teaching a profession-relevant message I've entitled "We Don't Leave our Wounded." Please invite a colleague, bring your spouse, and join us for this unique "cop church" time of fellowship, Bible study and prayer.
I'm also encouraging local officers and their spouses to join us for our Tuesday Night Dialogue service at Calvary South Denver in Littleton next Tuesday (November 1st) starting at 7 PM. Pastor Sam will be teaching on the Church of Laodicea in Revelation 3 -- specifically the issue of "lukewarm" (aka ROD -- "Retired on Duty") Christians. It has very specific application to us in law enforcement and one that is also very near/dear to my heart -- please join us for a powerful time of worship, fellowship, teaching of God's word, and great food afterwards to boot (free for 1st time attendees). FREE child care is provided as well!
Finally, an updated list of Prayer Requests have been posted below (following post): please take the time to join us in praying for our brothers and sisters all over the U.S and the world.
More to come -- check back frequently!
Due to ongoing issues with the way I currently send out the newsletter (Yahoo mail), this week's version will be posted here on the website only this week (stay tuned). I'm continuing to work on the problem -- please bear with me.
The Denver-Area Meeting Schedule is posted here on our website --"eyes left" -- and is updated regularly. We are in fact meeting tonight as scheduled starting at 1900 hours (7 PM for civilians:) at Calvary South Denver in Littleton -- High School Room if finished, Cafe if not. I'll be teaching a profession-relevant message I've entitled "We Don't Leave our Wounded." Please invite a colleague, bring your spouse, and join us for this unique "cop church" time of fellowship, Bible study and prayer.
I'm also encouraging local officers and their spouses to join us for our Tuesday Night Dialogue service at Calvary South Denver in Littleton next Tuesday (November 1st) starting at 7 PM. Pastor Sam will be teaching on the Church of Laodicea in Revelation 3 -- specifically the issue of "lukewarm" (aka ROD -- "Retired on Duty") Christians. It has very specific application to us in law enforcement and one that is also very near/dear to my heart -- please join us for a powerful time of worship, fellowship, teaching of God's word, and great food afterwards to boot (free for 1st time attendees). FREE child care is provided as well!
Finally, an updated list of Prayer Requests have been posted below (following post): please take the time to join us in praying for our brothers and sisters all over the U.S and the world.
More to come -- check back frequently!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
On Being Like Christ -- TCLEM Newsletter
Fellow Officers:
Here’s this week’s The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry (TCLEM) e-newsletter. It’s a little long but well worth it so lease take a few extra moments to read it through and then pass it on to others on your email lists (very easy way to share Christ with others). In addition, we strongly encourage you to join us in praying for those officers and their families who have submitted the prayer requests posted here on our website. I’ve also added a number of new links, photos, and other fun and helpful info.
Speaking of folks we’ve been praying for, former Mesa (AZ) Officer Lance Heivilin has gone to be with the Lord after a tough battle with a horrific form of cancer. Please know your prayers were in fact answered in accordance with God’s perfect will – our brother is now fully healed and without pain (praise God)! Lance was a relatively new believer but he showed exemplary courage and faith as he faced death. In fact, Lance shared his struggles and coming victory via his “Lance’s 411” Facebook page. The following was one of Lance’s last posts before being taken home to Glory (what a legacy):
"Challenge. Adversity. Calm. Here's the deal, the Lord surrounds us with opportunity. What seems, based on your perspective, is a confrontation. What the "confrontation" turns out to be is your road to peace.
I have spent much of my spiritual life in conflict, constantly engaged in battle. This has been through my short sightedness and inability to trust the entire picture. I have a submission issue. Jesus provided me the guidance, with the right people, at the right time to make the next critical step last night.
I do truly believe this is the beginning. I had a few things holding me back from letting it happen. They were big things, but now do not exist. I am blessed to have been shown this awesome power.
I have started the journey through Hospice. The cancer entered my leg bones 2 days ago. In the past, treatments hoped to be opportunities failed to materialize. I will focus my new energy where it can be used in a positive light. Mission understood!
I thank the Lord and my personal "team" for sharing this intense message for the past 48 hours of my life. My heart is healed, my vision is clear, and I look forward to the days ahead.
Peace to you all. I needed to capture tonight as the turning point. My true acceptance that now is the beginning of forever. Amen? Amen!"
Outstanding! I’m really looking forward to seeing Lance when my own time comes and to see how many others have come to Christ because of Lance’s example and courage. Meanwhile, let’s keep Lance’s family in prayer!
MESSAGE RECAP -- “Warriors Standing in the Gap” (aka “Standing Watch”)
Last week’s message on warriors (cops) “standing in the gap” was again well-attended by our local FCPO-Denver chapter regulars and visitors. Here’s the RECAP for all our readers/followers who reside elsewhere around the world:
With an eye on the prophetically historic events unfolding around us, I was strongly led to send out a reminder that we are “at war” with evil in general and in combating those who would otherwise create anarchy through lawlessness and sin. Accordingly, we must be ever-ready both personally in our relationship with Christ (being right with God) and in our attention to our warrior skills (physical and mental readiness). We in law enforcement are in fact called by God to “stand in the gap” to protect and lead our nation, communities and families against the hosts of the enemy (Satan).
In keeping with this thoroughly biblical theme, God’s inerrant word repeatedly uses the concept of “watchmen” standing guard on a wall. Biblically speaking, watchmen were those officers assigned to STAND a post on a city’s walls to watch and sound the alarm if the enemy approached. In fact, watchmen were under penalty of death if they failed to carry out their sworn duty.
Jack Nicholson character of Col. Jessup in the film A Few Good Men provides a famous modern-day analogy: “Son, we live in a world that has walls, and those walls have to be guarded by men with guns. Whose gonna do it? You? You, Lt. Weinburg?...You weep for Santiago, and you curse the Marines. You have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know. That Santiago's death, while tragic, probably saved lives. And that my existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, saves lives. Deep down in places you don’t talk about at parties, you want me on that wall, you need me on that wall. We use words like honor, code, loyalty. We use these words as the backbone of a life spent defending something. You use them as a punch line. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to a man who rises and sleeps under the blanket of the very freedom I provide, then questions the manner in which I provide it. I prefer you said ‘thank you’ and went on your way, Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a weapon, and stand a post...”
Oohrah! Note however that Jessup was more wolf than sheepdog!
The prophet Ezekiel, another one of God’s “cops” (review last week’s teaching) knew and understood the importance of watchmen standing guard on a wall and lived in a time that had many parallels to what is happening in the world today (and the United States in particular). Ezekiel 3:16-21 (New Living Translation) reads, 16 After seven days the Lord gave me a message. He said, 17 “Son of man, I have appointed you as a watchman for Israel. Whenever you receive a message from me, warn people immediately. 18 If I warn the wicked, saying, ‘You are under the penalty of death,’ but you fail to deliver the warning, they will die in their sins. And I will hold you responsible for their deaths. 19 If you warn them and they refuse to repent and keep on sinning, they will die in their sins. But you will have saved yourself because you obeyed me. 20 “If righteous people turn away from their righteous behavior and ignore the obstacles I put in their way, they will die. And if you do not warn them, they will die in their sins. None of their righteous acts will be remembered, and I will hold you responsible for their deaths. 21 But if you warn righteous people not to sin and they listen to you and do not sin, they will live, and you will have saved yourself, too.
The prophet Isaiah also wrote of this concept. Isaiah 62:6 says, On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have appointed watchmen; all day and all night they will never keep silent, you who remind the LORD, take no rest for yourselves…(refers to being always praying and expecting the Lord’s return).
The apostle Paul saw himself as a watchman, someone who would be positioned on a city wall to stand and watch for the enemy. Quoting Ezekiel, Paul tells the elders in Acts 20:26-28 (NLT), 26 Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of all men. 27 For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God. 28 Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock (those we serve and protect) of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers.[a] Be shepherds of the church of God (God’s people),[b] which He bought with his own blood.
Not unlike what we do as cops and soldiers (sheepdogs), declaring the truth of God’s word is literally a matter of life and death. When we meet someone who is lost or doesn’t know the Lord, we have a God-given responsibility as “watchmen” to tell them the truth. If we know a believer who is/has gone astray, we have a duty as watchmen to warn them – not out of hate or spite but rather out of love – in order to shield and protect them.
In ancient days, cities were often placed under siege and weapons were used to batter or pull down their walls so as to allow the enemy to breach them. The watchmen and other defenders would then be called on to stand in the breach – the GAP – to defend the city. Our Lord expounds on this concept of standing in the gap in Ezekiel 22:29-30. 29 The people of the land have used oppressions, committed robbery, and mistreated the poor and needy; and they wrongfully oppress the stranger. 30 So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one. Ezekiel 13:5 says, You have not gone up to the breaks in the wall to repair it for the house of Israel so that it will stand firm in the battle on the day of the LORD.
God is looking for men willing to build back, build up, restore, protect, renew and revive. And not just as Christian cops in the LOD. No, God is looking for men who know how to build up the self-esteem of their wives. God is looking for men who will make the sacrifices necessary to build up the faith of their family. God is looking for men to guide, encourage and discipline their children. God is looking for men who will be true servant-leaders and not pass on the tasks of ministry and leadership to their wives, but who will rather read them God’s word, teach a class, sweep a floor, visit a sick colleague at the hospital, and generally be the sold-out, “all-in” men of God He is calling us to be!
Note also that being a watchman and standing in the gap refers to intercessory prayer
** For our families
** Our friends
** Our profession and those who serve in it
** Our leaders
** Our country…
When was the last time you looked at the prayer requests on our website and then prayed?
Finally, we looked at the concept of what it means to STAND on that proverbial wall. Luke 21:36 (NIV) says, Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man. 1 Cor 10:12-13 (NIV) tells us, So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
Ephesians 6:10-18 uses the word “stand” 5 times (or more depending on the version). 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted (refers to the nails in a Roman soldier’s boots that allowed them to STAND firm in a shield wall) with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
We MUST daily put on both the whole armor of God along with our physical body armor so that we can watch, stand in the gap and finish strong in Christ!
To conclude, I shared another quote from A Few Good Men. When asked why she liked the Marines so much, the character of Galloway replied, “Because they stand upon a wall and say, "Nothing's going to hurt you tonight, not on my watch." Folks, what we need today are men and women willing stand on in a gap in the wall to watch, defend, and pray for those in our care. That’s our CALL – now (as my fellow Scots say) TO IT!
In the days of Michael Jordan we often heard the phrase "...be like Mike." This week’s I will be teaching on our call (command) to regularly grow stronger in our walk and relationship with Christ -- to be "more like Christ" through a process called sanctification. Please join us if you’re in the Denver-metro area but, if you’re not, you can be assured that I’ll have a detailed recap for you in next week’s newsletter – stay tuned!
FCPO-DENVER (“Locals”) NEWS:
For those who are reading this throughout the Denver-metro area, we are now “solid” for our once-monthly foray into the “mission field” (plains) of Aurora. No, we’re not leaving Calvary South Denver as our home base. Rather, we’ve simply partnered with Pastor Ed Taylor and our friends at Calvary Aurora were we’ll meet every third Thursday of the month in an effort to reach those officers who might not otherwise make the trek to the south metro area. First meeting there is February 17th at 7:00 PM in Room #138. See the following and forthcoimg posts here on website for more details and help us “spread the word.”
LISTEN TO RECENT TEACHING!
Some have asked how they can listen to my recent profession-relevant teaching at Calvary South Denver’s Tuesday Night Dialogue service (regularly attended by a number of our local officers who also attend our Thursday night “Cop Church” services) that mirrored my “Code 3 – A Sense of Urgency” study (see the RECAP in my January 12th post). A link to that teaching has been established on the Calvary South Denver website (www.calvarycsd.org). Just click on
https://public.me.com/sampark777, click on “TND Messages,” “Guest Speakers,” and the message beginning with “01.11.11…Urgency…” You can then download it to your computer or MP3 player. I hope you’ll find it helpful, informative and challenging.
TRAINING SEGMENT
If you’ve not had a chance to see the raw footage from the Detroit PD precinct shooting, take a look at this (lots to think about in terms of tactics not to mention seeing who did and didn’t show true warrior courage). Go to http://www.freep.com/videonetwork/767998473001/Detroit-police-video-of-precinct-shoot-out.
That’s it for this week folks. Check the website frequently for the latest prayer requests and local meeting schedule updates. In the meantime, let’s ask the Lord to help us stand strong in the gap for our families, colleagues and all those God as called us to serve and protect. Be safe!
Here’s this week’s The Centurion Law Enforcement Ministry (TCLEM) e-newsletter. It’s a little long but well worth it so lease take a few extra moments to read it through and then pass it on to others on your email lists (very easy way to share Christ with others). In addition, we strongly encourage you to join us in praying for those officers and their families who have submitted the prayer requests posted here on our website. I’ve also added a number of new links, photos, and other fun and helpful info.
Speaking of folks we’ve been praying for, former Mesa (AZ) Officer Lance Heivilin has gone to be with the Lord after a tough battle with a horrific form of cancer. Please know your prayers were in fact answered in accordance with God’s perfect will – our brother is now fully healed and without pain (praise God)! Lance was a relatively new believer but he showed exemplary courage and faith as he faced death. In fact, Lance shared his struggles and coming victory via his “Lance’s 411” Facebook page. The following was one of Lance’s last posts before being taken home to Glory (what a legacy):
"Challenge. Adversity. Calm. Here's the deal, the Lord surrounds us with opportunity. What seems, based on your perspective, is a confrontation. What the "confrontation" turns out to be is your road to peace.
I have spent much of my spiritual life in conflict, constantly engaged in battle. This has been through my short sightedness and inability to trust the entire picture. I have a submission issue. Jesus provided me the guidance, with the right people, at the right time to make the next critical step last night.
I do truly believe this is the beginning. I had a few things holding me back from letting it happen. They were big things, but now do not exist. I am blessed to have been shown this awesome power.
I have started the journey through Hospice. The cancer entered my leg bones 2 days ago. In the past, treatments hoped to be opportunities failed to materialize. I will focus my new energy where it can be used in a positive light. Mission understood!
I thank the Lord and my personal "team" for sharing this intense message for the past 48 hours of my life. My heart is healed, my vision is clear, and I look forward to the days ahead.
Peace to you all. I needed to capture tonight as the turning point. My true acceptance that now is the beginning of forever. Amen? Amen!"
Outstanding! I’m really looking forward to seeing Lance when my own time comes and to see how many others have come to Christ because of Lance’s example and courage. Meanwhile, let’s keep Lance’s family in prayer!
MESSAGE RECAP -- “Warriors Standing in the Gap” (aka “Standing Watch”)
Last week’s message on warriors (cops) “standing in the gap” was again well-attended by our local FCPO-Denver chapter regulars and visitors. Here’s the RECAP for all our readers/followers who reside elsewhere around the world:
With an eye on the prophetically historic events unfolding around us, I was strongly led to send out a reminder that we are “at war” with evil in general and in combating those who would otherwise create anarchy through lawlessness and sin. Accordingly, we must be ever-ready both personally in our relationship with Christ (being right with God) and in our attention to our warrior skills (physical and mental readiness). We in law enforcement are in fact called by God to “stand in the gap” to protect and lead our nation, communities and families against the hosts of the enemy (Satan).
In keeping with this thoroughly biblical theme, God’s inerrant word repeatedly uses the concept of “watchmen” standing guard on a wall. Biblically speaking, watchmen were those officers assigned to STAND a post on a city’s walls to watch and sound the alarm if the enemy approached. In fact, watchmen were under penalty of death if they failed to carry out their sworn duty.
Jack Nicholson character of Col. Jessup in the film A Few Good Men provides a famous modern-day analogy: “Son, we live in a world that has walls, and those walls have to be guarded by men with guns. Whose gonna do it? You? You, Lt. Weinburg?...You weep for Santiago, and you curse the Marines. You have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know. That Santiago's death, while tragic, probably saved lives. And that my existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, saves lives. Deep down in places you don’t talk about at parties, you want me on that wall, you need me on that wall. We use words like honor, code, loyalty. We use these words as the backbone of a life spent defending something. You use them as a punch line. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to a man who rises and sleeps under the blanket of the very freedom I provide, then questions the manner in which I provide it. I prefer you said ‘thank you’ and went on your way, Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a weapon, and stand a post...”
Oohrah! Note however that Jessup was more wolf than sheepdog!
The prophet Ezekiel, another one of God’s “cops” (review last week’s teaching) knew and understood the importance of watchmen standing guard on a wall and lived in a time that had many parallels to what is happening in the world today (and the United States in particular). Ezekiel 3:16-21 (New Living Translation) reads, 16 After seven days the Lord gave me a message. He said, 17 “Son of man, I have appointed you as a watchman for Israel. Whenever you receive a message from me, warn people immediately. 18 If I warn the wicked, saying, ‘You are under the penalty of death,’ but you fail to deliver the warning, they will die in their sins. And I will hold you responsible for their deaths. 19 If you warn them and they refuse to repent and keep on sinning, they will die in their sins. But you will have saved yourself because you obeyed me. 20 “If righteous people turn away from their righteous behavior and ignore the obstacles I put in their way, they will die. And if you do not warn them, they will die in their sins. None of their righteous acts will be remembered, and I will hold you responsible for their deaths. 21 But if you warn righteous people not to sin and they listen to you and do not sin, they will live, and you will have saved yourself, too.
The prophet Isaiah also wrote of this concept. Isaiah 62:6 says, On your walls, O Jerusalem, I have appointed watchmen; all day and all night they will never keep silent, you who remind the LORD, take no rest for yourselves…(refers to being always praying and expecting the Lord’s return).
The apostle Paul saw himself as a watchman, someone who would be positioned on a city wall to stand and watch for the enemy. Quoting Ezekiel, Paul tells the elders in Acts 20:26-28 (NLT), 26 Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of all men. 27 For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God. 28 Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock (those we serve and protect) of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers.[a] Be shepherds of the church of God (God’s people),[b] which He bought with his own blood.
Not unlike what we do as cops and soldiers (sheepdogs), declaring the truth of God’s word is literally a matter of life and death. When we meet someone who is lost or doesn’t know the Lord, we have a God-given responsibility as “watchmen” to tell them the truth. If we know a believer who is/has gone astray, we have a duty as watchmen to warn them – not out of hate or spite but rather out of love – in order to shield and protect them.
In ancient days, cities were often placed under siege and weapons were used to batter or pull down their walls so as to allow the enemy to breach them. The watchmen and other defenders would then be called on to stand in the breach – the GAP – to defend the city. Our Lord expounds on this concept of standing in the gap in Ezekiel 22:29-30. 29 The people of the land have used oppressions, committed robbery, and mistreated the poor and needy; and they wrongfully oppress the stranger. 30 So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one. Ezekiel 13:5 says, You have not gone up to the breaks in the wall to repair it for the house of Israel so that it will stand firm in the battle on the day of the LORD.
God is looking for men willing to build back, build up, restore, protect, renew and revive. And not just as Christian cops in the LOD. No, God is looking for men who know how to build up the self-esteem of their wives. God is looking for men who will make the sacrifices necessary to build up the faith of their family. God is looking for men to guide, encourage and discipline their children. God is looking for men who will be true servant-leaders and not pass on the tasks of ministry and leadership to their wives, but who will rather read them God’s word, teach a class, sweep a floor, visit a sick colleague at the hospital, and generally be the sold-out, “all-in” men of God He is calling us to be!
Note also that being a watchman and standing in the gap refers to intercessory prayer
** For our families
** Our friends
** Our profession and those who serve in it
** Our leaders
** Our country…
When was the last time you looked at the prayer requests on our website and then prayed?
Finally, we looked at the concept of what it means to STAND on that proverbial wall. Luke 21:36 (NIV) says, Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man. 1 Cor 10:12-13 (NIV) tells us, So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
Ephesians 6:10-18 uses the word “stand” 5 times (or more depending on the version). 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted (refers to the nails in a Roman soldier’s boots that allowed them to STAND firm in a shield wall) with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
We MUST daily put on both the whole armor of God along with our physical body armor so that we can watch, stand in the gap and finish strong in Christ!
To conclude, I shared another quote from A Few Good Men. When asked why she liked the Marines so much, the character of Galloway replied, “Because they stand upon a wall and say, "Nothing's going to hurt you tonight, not on my watch." Folks, what we need today are men and women willing stand on in a gap in the wall to watch, defend, and pray for those in our care. That’s our CALL – now (as my fellow Scots say) TO IT!
In the days of Michael Jordan we often heard the phrase "...be like Mike." This week’s I will be teaching on our call (command) to regularly grow stronger in our walk and relationship with Christ -- to be "more like Christ" through a process called sanctification. Please join us if you’re in the Denver-metro area but, if you’re not, you can be assured that I’ll have a detailed recap for you in next week’s newsletter – stay tuned!
FCPO-DENVER (“Locals”) NEWS:
For those who are reading this throughout the Denver-metro area, we are now “solid” for our once-monthly foray into the “mission field” (plains) of Aurora. No, we’re not leaving Calvary South Denver as our home base. Rather, we’ve simply partnered with Pastor Ed Taylor and our friends at Calvary Aurora were we’ll meet every third Thursday of the month in an effort to reach those officers who might not otherwise make the trek to the south metro area. First meeting there is February 17th at 7:00 PM in Room #138. See the following and forthcoimg posts here on website for more details and help us “spread the word.”
LISTEN TO RECENT TEACHING!
Some have asked how they can listen to my recent profession-relevant teaching at Calvary South Denver’s Tuesday Night Dialogue service (regularly attended by a number of our local officers who also attend our Thursday night “Cop Church” services) that mirrored my “Code 3 – A Sense of Urgency” study (see the RECAP in my January 12th post). A link to that teaching has been established on the Calvary South Denver website (www.calvarycsd.org). Just click on
https://public.me.com/sampark777, click on “TND Messages,” “Guest Speakers,” and the message beginning with “01.11.11…Urgency…” You can then download it to your computer or MP3 player. I hope you’ll find it helpful, informative and challenging.
TRAINING SEGMENT
If you’ve not had a chance to see the raw footage from the Detroit PD precinct shooting, take a look at this (lots to think about in terms of tactics not to mention seeing who did and didn’t show true warrior courage). Go to http://www.freep.com/videonetwork/767998473001/Detroit-police-video-of-precinct-shoot-out.
That’s it for this week folks. Check the website frequently for the latest prayer requests and local meeting schedule updates. In the meantime, let’s ask the Lord to help us stand strong in the gap for our families, colleagues and all those God as called us to serve and protect. Be safe!
Monday, January 3, 2011
A "Code 3" Sense of Urgency
Fellow Servant-Warriors:
My heart is heavy tonight as we have started off 2011 along the same sad lines that we ended 2010 with. As many are aware, a fellow officer was shot and killed while investigating -- alone no less -- a shots fired call when the perp took her out with a shotgun. The suspect managed to wound another officer before dying in a hail of rightous gunfire (see http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/148698-hell-broke-loose-in-gunfight-that-took-deputys-life). Just tonight here in Colorado a Northglenn officer was shot serving a warrant on a sex offender. At last report the officer is doing well, thank God (took rounds to the vest and arm) and the perpetrator reportedly took his own life before SWAT entered the residence. See http://www.9news.com/news/article.aspx?storyid=173404&catid=339.
Like our slain Ohio sister, we put on a badge, armor and weapon each day and hopefully seek God grace, protection and leading as we go out and stand in the gap (Ezek. 22:30) for those we serve and protect. Duty issues aside, there are thousands of our fellow servant-warriors who are also dealing with battle wounds, disease, family issues (see below), personal problems, and so much more. Bottom line remains the same: we MUST ALL come to Christ the same way. There is no "get out of hell pass" for those serving in law enforcement and we need to have a true "Code 3" sense of URGENCY about sharing the TRUTH of the Gospel with our brothers and sisters in "blue" (and of course being fully right with God ourselves). The horrendous but just consequence of a fellow officer dying without saying "yes" to Christ should be seen as untenable to all of us as there are NO SECOND CHANCES once this life ends. Stay tuned for more on this subject...!
There is no recap this week due to our weather-related cancellation this past Thursday. That said we are in fact "on" for this week and I'll post my usual recap in next week's newsletter. As an alternative, I encourage you to take the time to listen to the recorded Centurion Radio show I did last Friday with Tulsa PD Captain and Ten-Four Ministries Director Travis Yates. We talked about what true biblical servant-leadership should look like in our profession and had a very sobering discussion about the very topic I hit on above. Go to my New Year's Eve post and click on the link. I also strong encourage everyone to check out the many resources available at http://www.tenfourministries.org/. There you can sign-up for Travis's outstanding weekly e-newsletter and, for that officer who has yet to make a decision for Christ, click on the "Know God" button.
The Grace Card (a cop's movie) hits theaters on February 25th and I'm encouraging everyone to pray and promote the film (and of course go see it). I have a link on our website or just go to
http://www.thegracecardmovie.com/.
URGENT PRAYER REQUEST: One of our own and his family are in need of your ongoing prayer support. This officer's teen daughter is currently in a hospital dealing with a host of issues in what has been nothing short of a nightmare for all concerned. I don't want to give out any more details in this venue but God knows the need -- just PRAY!
Speaking of prayer requests, the latest have been posted here on our website (see the updated Dec. 26th post). Please check back frequently.
Denver-area (FCPO-Denver) NEWS:
(1) We're meeting as scheduled this coming Thursday, January 6th starting at 7 PM at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. Last week's newsletter and my Dec. 27th post provide the details -- please plan on joining us (spouses are welcome and encouraged to attend). We'll also talk about where this ministry has been, the vision for where God will take us in 2011, along with a great time of corporate prayer and cop fellowship.
(2) Our inaugural Centurion LE Ministry BAPTISM service is set for Saturday, January 15th and I'll be teaching on this subject at our January 13th meeting. If you are have accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior but have yet to be baptised (no, infant baptism doesn't cover it) and would like to take part in this blessed act of obedience to our Lord, please shoot me an email and plan on attending our January 13th meeting.
(3) Cops and Samson! As previously announced, we're participating in a special Tuesday Night Dialogue service at Calvary South Denver in Littleton on the very profession-relevant topic of Samson and Delilah from Judges 16. Please join us (bring your spouse and kids -- child care provided)! Starts at 7 PM in the main sanctuary. Pastor Sam Park's teaching on this subject is very much "a cop's story" -- perhaps even YOUR story.
That's it for this week's newsletter. "Stay frosty" and "Oscar Mike" with Christ as our Captain. Blessings, my fellow sheepdogs!
My heart is heavy tonight as we have started off 2011 along the same sad lines that we ended 2010 with. As many are aware, a fellow officer was shot and killed while investigating -- alone no less -- a shots fired call when the perp took her out with a shotgun. The suspect managed to wound another officer before dying in a hail of rightous gunfire (see http://policelink.monster.com/news/articles/148698-hell-broke-loose-in-gunfight-that-took-deputys-life). Just tonight here in Colorado a Northglenn officer was shot serving a warrant on a sex offender. At last report the officer is doing well, thank God (took rounds to the vest and arm) and the perpetrator reportedly took his own life before SWAT entered the residence. See http://www.9news.com/news/article.aspx?storyid=173404&catid=339.
Like our slain Ohio sister, we put on a badge, armor and weapon each day and hopefully seek God grace, protection and leading as we go out and stand in the gap (Ezek. 22:30) for those we serve and protect. Duty issues aside, there are thousands of our fellow servant-warriors who are also dealing with battle wounds, disease, family issues (see below), personal problems, and so much more. Bottom line remains the same: we MUST ALL come to Christ the same way. There is no "get out of hell pass" for those serving in law enforcement and we need to have a true "Code 3" sense of URGENCY about sharing the TRUTH of the Gospel with our brothers and sisters in "blue" (and of course being fully right with God ourselves). The horrendous but just consequence of a fellow officer dying without saying "yes" to Christ should be seen as untenable to all of us as there are NO SECOND CHANCES once this life ends. Stay tuned for more on this subject...!
There is no recap this week due to our weather-related cancellation this past Thursday. That said we are in fact "on" for this week and I'll post my usual recap in next week's newsletter. As an alternative, I encourage you to take the time to listen to the recorded Centurion Radio show I did last Friday with Tulsa PD Captain and Ten-Four Ministries Director Travis Yates. We talked about what true biblical servant-leadership should look like in our profession and had a very sobering discussion about the very topic I hit on above. Go to my New Year's Eve post and click on the link. I also strong encourage everyone to check out the many resources available at http://www.tenfourministries.org/. There you can sign-up for Travis's outstanding weekly e-newsletter and, for that officer who has yet to make a decision for Christ, click on the "Know God" button.
The Grace Card (a cop's movie) hits theaters on February 25th and I'm encouraging everyone to pray and promote the film (and of course go see it). I have a link on our website or just go to
http://www.thegracecardmovie.com/.
URGENT PRAYER REQUEST: One of our own and his family are in need of your ongoing prayer support. This officer's teen daughter is currently in a hospital dealing with a host of issues in what has been nothing short of a nightmare for all concerned. I don't want to give out any more details in this venue but God knows the need -- just PRAY!
Speaking of prayer requests, the latest have been posted here on our website (see the updated Dec. 26th post). Please check back frequently.
Denver-area (FCPO-Denver) NEWS:
(1) We're meeting as scheduled this coming Thursday, January 6th starting at 7 PM at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. Last week's newsletter and my Dec. 27th post provide the details -- please plan on joining us (spouses are welcome and encouraged to attend). We'll also talk about where this ministry has been, the vision for where God will take us in 2011, along with a great time of corporate prayer and cop fellowship.
(2) Our inaugural Centurion LE Ministry BAPTISM service is set for Saturday, January 15th and I'll be teaching on this subject at our January 13th meeting. If you are have accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior but have yet to be baptised (no, infant baptism doesn't cover it) and would like to take part in this blessed act of obedience to our Lord, please shoot me an email and plan on attending our January 13th meeting.
(3) Cops and Samson! As previously announced, we're participating in a special Tuesday Night Dialogue service at Calvary South Denver in Littleton on the very profession-relevant topic of Samson and Delilah from Judges 16. Please join us (bring your spouse and kids -- child care provided)! Starts at 7 PM in the main sanctuary. Pastor Sam Park's teaching on this subject is very much "a cop's story" -- perhaps even YOUR story.
That's it for this week's newsletter. "Stay frosty" and "Oscar Mike" with Christ as our Captain. Blessings, my fellow sheepdogs!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Happy New Year and Meeting Cancellation Notice!
First, let me use this opportunity to send out a big ole' Happy New Year from Diana and I to all those on our email list and our website followers in general. I'm both stoked and in prayer about where and how God will use this ministry in 2011. Many of us will be working so let's utilize an use an extra ounce of the unique "cop sense" God has given us and be sure you go to our Lord in prayer during your shifts. Also remember to check back here (website) frequently for the latest prayer requests and announcements.
MESSAGE FOR OUR FCPO-DENVER LOCALS:
Well folks, after prayer, watching the weather forecast (current blizzard conditions), advice from my better half and using my much-honed investigation skills (LOL) , I'm cancelling our meeting tonight due to adverse weather conditions. Interstate was slow but not too bad -- yet. However side streets are slick as snot and I'm not going to put folks at risk by having them come out in this.
Soooo -- meeting cancelled for tonight. I'm willing to reschedule to meet on Sat AM for those who need some corporate prayer time -- let me know if that is a must and I'll make it happen. If not, I hope you will consider joining us next Tuesday at Calvary South Denver's Tuesday Night Dialogue -- "TND" -- where Pastor Sam Park will be teaching an in-depth study on Samson and Delilah from Judges 16. Most of you should remember my overview on this subject and the fact that this is very much a cop-relevant topic. A number of us (Centurion Ministry/FCPO-Denver) already attend TND -- I serve there weekly -- and our own Matt Wallenburg is regularly part of the worship team. Please join us. If not, we'll see you next Thursday!
You'll also probably get a text if you read and responded to my email last night. Those who still show up tonight will be out-of-luck (good lesson on actually reading the emails -- LOL).
UPDATED FCPO-Denver MEETING SCHEDULE and ANNOUNCEMENTS:
MESSAGE FOR OUR FCPO-DENVER LOCALS:
Well folks, after prayer, watching the weather forecast (current blizzard conditions), advice from my better half and using my much-honed investigation skills (LOL) , I'm cancelling our meeting tonight due to adverse weather conditions. Interstate was slow but not too bad -- yet. However side streets are slick as snot and I'm not going to put folks at risk by having them come out in this.
Soooo -- meeting cancelled for tonight. I'm willing to reschedule to meet on Sat AM for those who need some corporate prayer time -- let me know if that is a must and I'll make it happen. If not, I hope you will consider joining us next Tuesday at Calvary South Denver's Tuesday Night Dialogue -- "TND" -- where Pastor Sam Park will be teaching an in-depth study on Samson and Delilah from Judges 16. Most of you should remember my overview on this subject and the fact that this is very much a cop-relevant topic. A number of us (Centurion Ministry/FCPO-Denver) already attend TND -- I serve there weekly -- and our own Matt Wallenburg is regularly part of the worship team. Please join us. If not, we'll see you next Thursday!
You'll also probably get a text if you read and responded to my email last night. Those who still show up tonight will be out-of-luck (good lesson on actually reading the emails -- LOL).
UPDATED FCPO-Denver MEETING SCHEDULE and ANNOUNCEMENTS:
-- Thu, Dec. 30th: CANCELLED!
-- TCLEM on the Radio! 12 Noon CST (11 AM Mountain). Go to http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ten-four-ministries/2010/12/31/centurion-radio-14-servant-leadership for a preview and to learn how you can take part. Listeners can also check out previous programs by going to http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ten-four-ministries. See previous (12/29) post for further.
-- Tuesday, January 4th, 2011: We're participating in the special TND Service at Calvary South Denver in Littleton on the very profession-relevant topic of Samson and Delilah from Judges 16. Please join us (bring your spouse and kids -- child care provided)! Starts at 7 PM in the main sanctuary.
-- Thursday, January 6th, 2011: Regular "cop church" fellowship, prayer and Bible study meeting. 1900 hours, Calvary South Denver in Littleton. Probably be in our "regular" High School Room.
-- Thursday, January 13th: Regular time/place as above. I'll be teaching a special message on baptism in preparation for our first-ever baptism service on Saturday, Jan. 15th.
-- Saturday, January 15th: Law Enforcement BAPTISM SERVICE at Southern Gables Church (4001 South Wadsworth Boulevard, Lakewood, CO 80123-1358 )
Check back frequently for the latest changes and updates!
Blessings!
Monday, October 11, 2010
New Prayer Requests and Updated Meeting Schedule
UPDATED (10/13) PRAYER REQUESTS -- check back frequently as these are regularly updated...and feel free email me your requests at fullarmor911@yahoo.com:
-- An officer in MN had surgery last Tuesday to deal with a tumor. Please pray that it is benign and that initial surgery will be successful (healing, courage, protection, grace and God's perfect will).
-- Mickey Koerner in Utah sent the following:
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 fund raiser 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 I'd like you to pray for is safety on this trail. Last week we had another lady attacked.
Our area is in desperate need of the REAL Jesus.
-- From fellows FCPO Board member Paul Lee in TN:
Dear Saints,
Another good report on little Elizabeth Jetton. Please continue to pray and click on the link to take a look at this beautiful child with the big smile. Don't forget to also sign Elizabeth's guest book (see below) to let Officer Jetton and Matt know we are still praying and thankful for this good report.
Also keep Chattanooga PD Capt. David Woolsey in your prayers. His father is very ill in the Philippians. David is there now with his father. His parents are missionaries and have devoted their lives in that part of the world.
God bless,
Paul
www.fcpo.org
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethjetton
WOUNDED OFFICER UPDATE!
-- Carbon County (WY) Lt. Kyle Rosentreter is continuing to rehab and growing stronger.
-- Polk County (WI) Dep. Mike Severson is improving as well -- very tough cookie!
In addition, I spoke with retired Las Vegas PD Officer Bob Pierce whose son Jake is rehabing from a MVA.
As previously announced, Denver PD Det. Danny Veith recently donated a kidney to a fellow officer and mentioned his faith in the following article: http://www.9news.com/news/health/article.aspx?storyid=156964&catid=180. I saw Danny last week while assisting Lt. Col. Dave Grossman at his latest Denver-area Bulletproof Mind presentation (packed house of offices). Please keep Danny and his colleague in your prayers for a full recovery.
Please keep our wounded brothers in prayer...they have tough roads ahead and need all the support they can get. Please join us in visiting as well!
Local MEETING SCHEDULE Update:
-- Thursday, October 14th: NO MEETING! If you're one of our regulars or just a Denver-metro local or visitor, please consider attending the unique Tuesday (10/12) night service(s) starting at 7:00 PM at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. Pastor Sam Park will begin an in-depth look at the life of Samson as detailed in chapters 13-16 in the Book of Judges. Most will remember my recent overview on Samson and Sam's teaching will go much deeper on a character that has direct application to us in law enforcement (and Christians in general). Bring your spouse/family (child care is provided) for great worship music, outstanding teaching, communion, and a great time of prayer and fellowship. The Tuesday night service -- aka the Tuesday Night Dialogue ("dialogue" being with God), is very much akin to what we believe the original Acts church was like! Quite a few of our Centurion Ministry regulars also attend on Tuesday nights -- very
"cop friendly" and I serve there as well. Please join us.
-- Thursday, October 21st: 7:00 PM, Calvery South Denver (http://www.calvarycsd.org/ for directions), Littleton. We meet in the High School Room -- all the way down the hall past the main sanctuary. I'll be teaching a very profession-relevant message on pride.
-- Saturday, October 23rd: Fall Potluck at our place in Highlands Ranch. Email me or come to the Oct. 21st meeting for address and details. Remember to RSVP if you plan on coming.
-- Thursday, October 28th: Same time/place as Oct. 21st above.
-- An officer in MN had surgery last Tuesday to deal with a tumor. Please pray that it is benign and that initial surgery will be successful (healing, courage, protection, grace and God's perfect will).
-- Mickey Koerner in Utah sent the following:
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 fund raiser 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 I'd like you to pray for is safety on this trail. Last week we had another lady attacked.
Our area is in desperate need of the REAL Jesus.
-- From fellows FCPO Board member Paul Lee in TN:
Dear Saints,
Another good report on little Elizabeth Jetton. Please continue to pray and click on the link to take a look at this beautiful child with the big smile. Don't forget to also sign Elizabeth's guest book (see below) to let Officer Jetton and Matt know we are still praying and thankful for this good report.
Also keep Chattanooga PD Capt. David Woolsey in your prayers. His father is very ill in the Philippians. David is there now with his father. His parents are missionaries and have devoted their lives in that part of the world.
God bless,
Paul
www.fcpo.org
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/elizabethjetton
WOUNDED OFFICER UPDATE!
I again visited our wounded brothers at Craig Hospital this weekend where I found one of regulars doing the same (Thanks Todd!).
-- Mineral County (CO) Dep. Scott Warrington has been discharged to go home to Creede where he will continue his rehab.-- Carbon County (WY) Lt. Kyle Rosentreter is continuing to rehab and growing stronger.
-- Polk County (WI) Dep. Mike Severson is improving as well -- very tough cookie!
In addition, I spoke with retired Las Vegas PD Officer Bob Pierce whose son Jake is rehabing from a MVA.
As previously announced, Denver PD Det. Danny Veith recently donated a kidney to a fellow officer and mentioned his faith in the following article: http://www.9news.com/news/health/article.aspx?storyid=156964&catid=180. I saw Danny last week while assisting Lt. Col. Dave Grossman at his latest Denver-area Bulletproof Mind presentation (packed house of offices). Please keep Danny and his colleague in your prayers for a full recovery.
Please keep our wounded brothers in prayer...they have tough roads ahead and need all the support they can get. Please join us in visiting as well!
Local MEETING SCHEDULE Update:
-- Thursday, October 14th: NO MEETING! If you're one of our regulars or just a Denver-metro local or visitor, please consider attending the unique Tuesday (10/12) night service(s) starting at 7:00 PM at Calvary South Denver in Littleton. Pastor Sam Park will begin an in-depth look at the life of Samson as detailed in chapters 13-16 in the Book of Judges. Most will remember my recent overview on Samson and Sam's teaching will go much deeper on a character that has direct application to us in law enforcement (and Christians in general). Bring your spouse/family (child care is provided) for great worship music, outstanding teaching, communion, and a great time of prayer and fellowship. The Tuesday night service -- aka the Tuesday Night Dialogue ("dialogue" being with God), is very much akin to what we believe the original Acts church was like! Quite a few of our Centurion Ministry regulars also attend on Tuesday nights -- very
"cop friendly" and I serve there as well. Please join us.
-- Thursday, October 21st: 7:00 PM, Calvery South Denver (http://www.calvarycsd.org/ for directions), Littleton. We meet in the High School Room -- all the way down the hall past the main sanctuary. I'll be teaching a very profession-relevant message on pride.
-- Saturday, October 23rd: Fall Potluck at our place in Highlands Ranch. Email me or come to the Oct. 21st meeting for address and details. Remember to RSVP if you plan on coming.
-- Thursday, October 28th: Same time/place as Oct. 21st above.
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