Remember... Slow Down & Move Over!

This is a prayer written by Pastor Ray Long, of Saint John's Lutheran Church, Wapakoneta, Ohio. He wrote this, for members of the Law Enforcement Community to pray as they prepared themselves for each tour of duty. This was prompted by the Holy Spirit after Pastor Long and several members noted that there had been an increase in violence against Law Enforcement Personnel. A recent incident involving several of our community's agencies compounded the urgency. After much prayer a service was developed in which the sermon and prayers focused on our brothers and sisters in Law Enforcement. This prayer was part of that Sunday's worship service. For the purposes of the service, one of our members spoke the words of the prayer, on behalf of all Law Enforcement member, and the congregation responded several times with, "May this always be so, Lord." The words to the prayer, with out the responses are as follows:

PRAYER FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT PROFESSIONALS
by Pastor Ray Long

Heavenly Father,
As I leave my loved ones' side, to begin each of my tours;
guard and protect them well, as I go to protect all others.

Let my badge serve to remind me, You're my shield and strong right arm;
Let my badge shine in darkness, as a beacon to those alarmed.

Let my weapon serve as a sign, to halt suspects' foolish acts;
but if I must draw and fire, let my aim be true and fast.

Your grace carries me with courage, where others fear to tread;
that I may free from danger, all those who are in need.

Let my radio be a link, to brother and sister sentinels;
that I may heed the call, when sounds the warning bells.

At the end of each tour of service, remind me I've done my best;
then prepare my heart and my mind, for the loved ones with whom I'm blessed.

If harm should ever befall me, and my tour not quietly end;
comfort my loved ones knowing, I served where I could defend.

I pray this for all Law Enforcement Personnel, in the name of Christ Jesus,
Your Son, Our Savior;

AMEN!