Prayer is an often practiced, more often neglected, and less often understood practice of Christendom. Counselors prescribe prayer as a means to reduce stress and lower blood pressure. Some approach prayer as Eastern meditation, some as an expression of tongues, and other traditions offer chants in a strict liturgical form. John 17 offers the reader an unusual opportunity to listen to a prayer. Some might say the prayer in John 17 is the prayer of all prayers, the true definition of the Lord's prayer. Drawing on classic commentators, Michael Cannon casts John 17 in a pastoral light showing the grace, wisdom, and love of Christ for his people as he pours his heart out before his heavenly Father on their behalf. While these were messages originally preached in the context of worship, they also serve as a detailed commentary on one of the most beloved passages of Scripture.

Michael Cannon has served for many years as a Military Chaplain, and has both seen the need for this Manual and acted to meet that need. He has done tremendous research in gathering materials for this "SoldIer's Catechism" including the following: (1) The Soldier's Catechism used in Oliver Cromwell's "New Model Army" (2) The Soldier's Pocket Bible which comes from the same period of time, and contains hundreds of passages centered around themes addressed to the soldier. (3) Significant quotations from the Creeds and Confessions of the Church of Jesus Christ "The Soldier's Catechism, although not infallible as the Word of God, has become to me alike the protective sheath for the Soldiers sword of the Spirit (Eph 6:17). This daily help encourages me to mediate on the whole counsel of God as revealed in Scripture from the vantage point of one who must prepare and lead Soldiers into both physical and spiritual combat. The Soldier's Catechism emboldens my spiritual expeditionary endurance as I wrestle "against the rulers of darkness of this age" as a warrior in God's Church triumphant. My hope is the Soldier's Catechism will be an encouragement to you as we fight the good fight along side each other." - Colonel Michael C. Cloy, Infantry, US Army