The Strong Blue Line
Several months ago, Pastor Jonathan Parker invited me to present The Strong Blue Line ministry at Cop Church Chattanooga (CCC). I was excited about the possibility of sharing the ministry with a church intentionally ministering to law enforcement officers. But a lack of funding prohibited me from going. Recently funds became available for my airfare. I contacted Pastor Jonathan and let him know. We coordinated a date, and a couple from his church volunteered to put me up…or maybe better, put up with me for a couple nights.
On Tuesday, October 17th, I’ll be speaking at Cop Church Chattanooga. Pastor Jonathan also arranged for me to teach the eight-hour seminar Winning a Gunfight (based on the book) at the Chattanooga police department the following day. While in Chattanooga I plan to promote The Strong Blue Line ministry to churches and/or ministers and get as many books as I can into the hands of officers in the area. CCC has committed to purchasing at least 25 copies to give to officers in their community. Please pray my trip to Chattanooga will be fruitful.
In mid-August, my parents and brother drove up from San Antonio to escape the Texas heat and spend a couple weeks in Idaho visiting and enjoying our great summer days. On the way up, my brother Ron, gave a copy of Winning a Gunfight to an officer in Moab, Utah. He gladly accepted the book and said, “I’ve heard of this book, thanks.” I too always have a handful of books in my truck to give to officers as I travel. Think about ordering some to give away in your travels. If you order five or more they’re only $10 each (including shipping and tax), that’s cheaper than buying an officer a meal—and more valuable! Click here to order.
We didn’t realize when my parents scheduled the trip they would be treated to a total solar eclipse. Idaho Falls lay right in the path of the eclipse. We weren’t too excited and wondered why everyone was making such a fuss about it—however, we soon found out. We were all taken by the awe at this spectacular event. When God puts on a show, he does it right! It was amazing to feel the temperature drop as the deep blue skies slowly darkened. Then the moon eclipsed the sun, leaving only the corona visible for two minutes. It wasn’t totally dark, and it was clear the sun was there, but it was a time of darkness. A friend of mine later said it reminded him of God’s presence. Even during times when the world grows cold and dark, God is always there. Scripture reminds us of this fact, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5).
Cop Church
We’re ready to go—and the word is spreading quickly! Jonathan Hogan, a reporter from the Idaho Falls Post Register, called and requested an interview for a story about the opening of Cop Church. His story ran in the Post Register on Friday, September 1. Mr. Hogan did a great job reporting, you can read his story here. Also, Michaela Leung, a TV reporter for KIFI and KIDK in Idaho Falls ran a story for Cop Church that aired locally on September 4. Ms. Leung also did a great job! You can see her video report by clicking here.
With the word spreading, we also received negative comments and even some threats. Imagine that, someone not wanting a church to open and the gospel spread! I wonder who is behind that? “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).
Pray for your police.
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