Democratic sheriff Mike Blakely is the top cop in Limestone county, but last Sunday he called upon a higher power to help settle a dispute.
After being called to settle a Sunday morning dispute at a local church, Blakeley didn't use his weapon or cuffs, but instead used the most powerful tool in the Christians' aresenal: prayer.
The Decatur Daily has the details...
Blakely said that when he got to the church, he asked the members to meet inside so he could offer a few words. He decided that to help them work out their differences, he should turn to God.
"I didn't know who to call on to pray," Blakely said. "I was worried I'd call on someone who would offend the other side."
No need to pull out the handcuffs. Instead, the sheriff bowed his head.
"I prayed that I didn't think the Lord would want people to act like this," Blakely said. "I prayed that the Lord would touch their hearts. I was going to ask for an 'Amen,' but didn't have to. I got some, 'Amens' and 'Hallelujahs' and some 'That's right, Sheriff Blakely.' "
Blakely said he simultaneously was offering a silent prayer to God that his words were helping.
"My words were sincere, and it seemed to calm everybody down," the sheriff said.
Like most Alabamians and Democrats, Sheriff Blakely's faith is obviously about more than words. It's refreshing to see a public figure who doesn't use his faith for votes, but instead to help people and better lives.
Also posted at the Alabama Democratic Party blog (http://aladems.net)