“Letter From M.O.M.” The Monthly newsletter of Moving On Ministry WWW.MovingOnMinistry.com www.PrisonMinistry.net/movingon Volume 38 – July. 2008
“I Can Only Imagine” Intentions & Wishes
As you receive this volume of The intentions of this newsletter Letter From M.O.M., we have many are to allow an understanding of jail & new writers of articles, we are putting prison ministries. It is our intentions to some more of the testimonies of “How get input from those incarcerated as well God Changes Lives” as well as some of as those “free” to visit. Life experiences our own written articles. We can truly of the faith and fellowship from those say that the “high” that many of our locked up in the facilities are always inmates have been trying to get through desired to let others know of the value of the wrong methods, is being surpassed “visitation”. I am certain that each of us by those putting God in control of their have many stories of the miracles God lives. has done in our lives. Watch our website Our wishes are that we would www.MovingOnMinistry.com have a list of supportive churches that individuals might look forward to We are affiliated with International attending once released. Prison Fellowship A list of services, such as http.//PrisonMinistry.net/movingon housing, employment, and counseling services, as well as some individuals and Good News Jail & Prison Ministry available for friendly fellowship are also Volunteer much needed items. www.GoodNewsJail.com God’s Word says if a man stumbles, how can he continue lest there Fellowship be another to help him up. Ecc. 4:10 As we continue to reach out, as “For if they fall, the one will lift up his commanded in Matt. 25:34-46, we get fellow: but woe to him [that is] alone contact with many of the ministries that when he falleth; for [he hath] not another are also reaching out. We have been to help him up.” Proverbs 24:17 blessed with two letters from Rick “Rejoice not when thy enemy falleth, Warren (Saddleback Church, 40 Days of and let not thy heart be glad when he Purpose, and Celebrate Recovery), stumbleth:” John 11:10 “But if a man received a phone call from Charles walketh in the night, he stumbleth, Morris (Haven of Rest, Haven Today), because there is no light in him.” met Chip Ingram (Living on the Edge), Please help us with input for this and met Bruce Wilkinson (Dream For newsletter as we strive to serve God. Africa) before we did the Africa mission We appreciate any articles or input. trip to Swaziland.
Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 1 July 2008 Addresses to contact Ministry Volunteers Ministry Notes and Updates
Moving On Ministry Dreams and Goals of Moving On Chaplain Bob Ministry (M.O.M.) P.O. Box 6667 Visalia, CA. 93290 Since the start of involvement with jail and prison ministry, Bob has Moving On Ministry had his heart set (set by God because it Spanish Ministry - Linda was on the list of things Bob said he P.O. Box 6667 would not do) to find solutions and Visalia, CA. 93290 answers to the facts of prisons. For the most part, the term Jesus Prayer Ministry “Correctional Institution” does not fit, Sis Denise the correction seems to be lacking. We P.O. Box 7925 realize that something cannot be Chula Vista, CA 91912 changed unless it wants to be changed. That lack of wanting change is mostly Cathy Jewell because of how the “change” is P.O. Box 41272 presented. Centerville, Ohio 45441 There is 88% recidivism for inmates in California Prisons, with the Set Free Prison Ministries rest of the nation approximately the Bible Correspondence Course same values. That means that 88% of P.O. Box 5440 those seen in prison right now will return Riverside, CA. 92517-9986 when released. Only 11% of the inmates will ever get off of parole. Linda Warner P.O. Box 1356 For 2008, Bob is doing Bible study at Havelock, NC 28532 BWDF on Mondays and Thursdays.
The Sunday after the 2nd Saturday of Prison Fellowship each month is Bob and Linda’s assigned Chuck Colson day for 3 to 4 chapel Services at P.O. Box 1550 Corcoran State Prison (“Old” Corcoran). Merrifield, VA 22116-1550 07/13/08, 08/10/08, 09/14/08, 10/12/08, 11/09/08, & 12/14/08. Send us names and Ministries that “do” write and are supportive M.O.M. Needs o Tractor repair or replacement for Camp Clarius development. Send us names and Ministries o Pen-pals to write inmates that “do” write and are o Finances supportive o Testimonies
Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 2 July 2008 o Development of Nevada property o Graphics for books
Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 3 July 2008 Letters that Express it All filled with love in Christian service, is a commendable thing. Sadly, often times We like to post real life the tragedy we ignorantly might sow, is situations, because God works in instead of gathering for the Kingdom of real lives and He is the one that God, we scatter. The Lord has taught gives “Eternal Life.” Every week we me an important principle about the get many letters that state “I love Heavenly calling (Heb. 3:1) provided for hearing the testimonies.” There are every human being, especially them so many, we cannot publish them all, which expressed positive volition in and the sad part is – people not Jesus Christ for salvation. involved in jail/prison ministry do not His desire for us is to first sow to get to read the many letters we our spiritual life, grow in Bible doctrine. receive daily (average 2 to 11 each Then we will effectively in grace, reap a day) and try to keep up with and fruitful harvest in Christian service. answer. Instead of us saints working on what we ******************************************* could do for God’s Son Jesus, our Lord, **************** He desires for us to utilize our Holy Calling of a Soldier calling / spiritual life, and learn of the work His Son Jesus Christ our Savior Position ally every believer in Jesus had done for us at the cross. As Christ’s Christ is entrusted with six offices ambassadors, then we will glorify God spiritually. These six offices are and mighty exploits through His Church excluded from any spiritual gift(s) will further make fruitful His body and imparted to the believer by the Holy His kingdom. We shall go forth as Spirit at the moment of salvation. But soldiers fighting the good fight. Who basic knowledge and utilization of these knows? You could be an Evangelist, or spiritual offices is absolutely essential to pastor, or a teacher. Only God knows. potentially glorify God within His Who hath saved us, and called us with a calling designed for you before the “Holy-calling,” not according to our foundation of the world to walk in. The works, but according to his own purpose Saint positionally is: Priest, Disciple, and grace, which was given us in Christ Witness, Servant, Ambassador, and Jesus before the world began (2 Tim. Soldier. These six offices belong to 1:9); There is one body, and one spirit, every believer and are divided into two even as ye are called in one hope of your categories; calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who Spiritual Life Christian Service is above all, and through all, and in you Priest Servant all (Eph. 4:4-6). Disciple Ambassador Why are there so many Witness Soldier denominations out there in the body and 24/7 so much division in here? Baptist, Protestant, Apostolic, Catholic, etc. The concept is for the believer to better Why? We claim to be rightly dividing discern between spiritual life and the word of God, yet we aren’t Christian service or duty. endeavoring to keep the unity as His For a believer to desire the noble church. We say we aren’t ignorant of task of serving the Lord from a heart
Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 4 July 2008 the devil’s devices, that we are mature ******************************************* Christian. I really challenge us to **************** question what we truly understand about Appreciation and Satan and his part as the god of this age, Congratulations as an angel of light. We believers in Christ have Dearest Chaplain Bob & Sister Linda, taken the law of liberty for granted. All Good greetings I send to you things are lawful for me, but all things both first and foremost. Chaplain Bob, are not expedient; all things are lawful I’d like to wish you a happy belated for me, but all things edify not (1 Cor. Father’s Day. I hope that you had a very 6:12; 10:23) blessed Father’s day! I just wanted you The eyes of your understanding both to know that I received my monthly being enlightened, that ye may know (M.O.M.) newsletter for this month, what is the hope of His calling; and what June 2008. Thank you both for looking the riches of the glory of His inheritance out for me and reaching out to me. If in the saints (Eph. 1:18). nothing else, I can always count on Believers in Christ have chosen hearing from you both at least once a to determine their own calling for their month with some friendly “Good News,” own lives. As “religious legalism” which I admire and appreciate so very becomes the back-bone for spiritual much. I truly consider you both as my Christianity. This is a common problem family. for the members of His Body in the Both of your presence in my life, Church. Yet God loves you and me so your words, your stories, your personal much and respects our volition (freedom experiences, and your whole ministry of will), that He allows us Christians to that you uphold and represent has truly choose our own path in Him. But He captivated my life, my world, and my hopes we find our true destiny in grace, ‘being,’ Moving On Ministry has truly according to the purpose of the holy made a profound impact on my life calling. Imagine God having a hope that toward a common good and I thank God you, me, and every other human being to and His one and only son, Jesus Christ, ever exist, to experience a special and for blessing me with the divine gift of specific calling for our very own meeting you both. This opportunity spiritual life, including every provision continuously makes my heart smile. needed to fulfill it. Both of your presence in my life really Sometimes a soldier can forget inspires me to do all the right things to how important everything really is in my stay sharp and to stay focused on God’s life. To remember every single thing Word! Thank You Jesus ! that happens, is for a reason. To lay Now on to address a few matters hold of this high calling. There is a concerning the M.O.M. newsletter. I necessity of a strict discipline, hardship, was saddened to hear and learn that the suffering, allowed by the Lord, in order other “ministries” ya’ll used to post for me not to forget my Citizenship. weren’t answering back to inmates. For the gifts and calling of God Personally, I don’t think that was too are without repentance – irrevocable cool of them, being that we are all in the (Rom. 11:29) same “Siamese” field of serving the same all loving God, the Ruler of the TM Universe. I remember my moma taught Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 5 July 2008 me a famous little phrase growing up as there at M.O.M. I was touched in the a child, “God don’t like ugly, and a very segment “Letters that Express it All,” little pretty.” I think I’ll end my where in the letter titled “Plan of thoughts and comments regarding that Giving” where two inmates sent two $20 mater right here! money gifts to Paulette (who needs a Once again, I want to liver transplant) and the other to M.O.M. congratulate Sister Linda for earning and for whatever as it may be needed. being awarded her “jail bar cross” from WOW, God is good and God is great attending 5 events with the all (not some of the time, all the time) outstanding Bill Glass Champions for AMEN! Life Prison Ministry. “You go Girl,” The “Importance of getting it God bless her soul. I also want to right,” “The Five Steps to a Reprobate congratulate Sister Linda for being the Mind,” “A Clarion call to the modern “backbone” and the “Glue” that has kept church,” “Being the Called, Instead of me and Sister “Gidget” together as she Calling Collect,” and the newsletters and I have grown closer to one another “Testimony” were all good reading in Christ. Thank you my dear, you are material and was also very inspiring to precious, a messenger, and an “angel” of me too as well. Thank you both so very God. May the many blessings of God much, I am dedicated to all of you there rain upon you and Chaplain Bob, both a at M.O.M., I will continuously stay in million times over. touch from time to time. Sister Linda, To be honest, I view you both as please tell “Gidget” I said hello, also it says in the scriptures referring to 1 give her a hug and a smile for me too as Peter 2:9. “A chosen generation a royal well. I hope to hear from you soon, God priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar bless you both! RA people, that ye should show forth the ******************************************* praises of Him who hath called you out **************** of darkness into His marvelous light,” Two Strikes and Egg Shells and now since God has driven you both out of the darkness into the light, a You don’t know me but I have divine prophecy of God is now being heard of you through many of my fulfilled as you both travel the free and friends, and my former cellie, LC. You not so free world, spreading God’s have been spoken highly of by my cellie awesome good news. WOW, how JC. My name is DQ and I’ve been sweet, how pleasant, how gracious the incarcerated here in Corcoran State both of you are. Praise our all loving Prison since 2005. Well, since I‘ve been God as He is our King, our guider, and studying the Bible and doing Bible protector. courses. I’m about to parole in 5 more Now back to touching a few months and I’m kind of scared what I subjects regarding the newsletter. I hope might do when I get out of here. continuous good things keep coming I’ve lost my mother and wife forth to M.O.M., like the wonderful since I’ve been incarcerated. So I don’t “Tools of Ministry.” Like the “Kit have any family out there. I have 3 Cars,” the majestic sites such as Camp sisters, but I don’t know their addresses. Clarius,” the “Trucks and Tractors,” I All I know is which city they live in. So, pray that God continues to bless you all I’m walking out there alone, but I’m afraid I might backslide and loose my Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 6 July 2008 faith. So, would you have any advice Romans 8:3 For what the law could not you could give me? I don’t want to end do, in that it was weak through the flesh, up doing what I used to do, which ended God sending his own Son in the likeness me up here (Corcoran State Prison). I of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned don’t want to come back. I already have sin in the flesh: 2 strikes and walking on egg shells with the courts. So, I’m not getting any more ******************************************* chances and I don’t want to end up doing **************** life. Is there any literature you can send Powerless me that I can learn from, or suggestion. I’m open minded to anything which is My name is BWS. I’m 36 years Christianity, and I always want to learn of age, born in Phoenix, Arizona; raised anything about it. I don’t mean to bore in Dallas, Texas. Incarcerated on and you, but you’re the only one that might off since age 12, lived on the streets guide me on the right path, as you have most my life when not locked up. My others. Also I would like to ask you how life has been unmanageable cause I l;et is Leo doing and if he is doing well drugs and alcohol take charge of my life. health wise. Me and him have been I was powerless over all drugs and good friends for many years and also alcohol. I stole and prostituted to get been cellies twice. If you see him, tell drugs and alcohol, but did use him he is always in my prayers. Well protection. So many times I attempted Chaplain Bob, thank you for your time to quit completely. All my relationships and may God bless. DQ were short term and almost always emotionally and physically abusive, only ------while under the influence. It was hard for me, I couldn’t keep a job, get a Note From Bob; drivers license or vehicle, and lost a It saddens us when we receive letters wonderful girlfriend. I lost my families like the previous. Where are those trust, I lost my self respect. Drunk “professing Christians” that say they are again, high again, frightened again, a dedicated to God’s children? The failure again. Now I’ve given my life to scripture says the spirit is willing but the the Lord and straight and sober! flesh is weak. It also says that when we p.s. I hope you can find me a are on our knees and they are weak from pen pal. Also, will you send me a copy prayer, we will see strength in the spirit. of M.O.M.? BWS
Matthew 26:41 Watch and pray, that ye ******************************************* enter not into temptation: the spirit **************** indeed [is] willing, but the flesh [is] From the Mom of M.O.M. weak. Bob’s mother (Mom of M.O.M.) has Mark 14:38 Watch ye and pray, lest ye requested drawings of what individuals enter into temptation. The spirit truly [is] think Heaven will be like. I think we ready, but the flesh [is] weak. will run a contest for the best drawing and award a quarterly gift pack for the drawing chosen.
Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 7 July 2008 Also for those wanting to contribute drawings for some of our books of poetry, please contact us.
Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 8 July 2008 Recommended Reading Sharing Your Testimony There are 4 parts to an individual’s For the new Christian, or the testimony; individual desiring to know God, we 1. What my life was like before I would like to recommend the met Jesus following reading: 2. How I realized I needed Jesus 3. How I committed my life to The Gospel of John – This is Jesus a great introduction of Christ’s walk 4. The difference Jesus has made in on Earth. my life. The Book of Romans – This But in reality, those who believe in Jesus gives an introduction of many of the have the testimony of God in them; each Bible stories shared and helps build of us needs to periodically share our familiarity of Christ’s plan for our testimony with others. The importance lives. is not what you have done, but what God is doing. The Purpose Driven Life by 1. Your testimony; Rick Warren – 40 chapters will 2. Your life lessons change your life in 40 days 3. Your godly passions 4. The Good News Book of Proverbs – Read one chapter a day with the chapter I would like to add that we read being the day of the month. have shared many wonderful This will allow the book to be read testimonies. Many individuals are almost 12 times thru the year. afraid to share their testimony Ephesians 4 – 6 – This gives because they are not sure what to the pattern for life that we should write or feel inadequate in their live. All 7 S’s are displayed in these writing ability. I think all will agree, 3 chapters. We are given the that the testimonies that move purpose of the gifts, changing our people are not the ones written from character, husband/wife/family great minds, but are actually the relationships, and the type of life we ones written from a great heart. are to live and display. God’s Word says in Jeremiah 17:9 that “the heart is deceitful Men’s Relational Toolbox – above all things, and desperately Another fine work by Gary Smalley wicked: who can know it?” When with both of his sons adding to this the heart is changed by Christ book. This book avoids “male (salvation – separation – bashing” but rather teaches men to sanctification), it becomes the center use and modify the inner tools they of where God works from in our life. have to improve their relationships. The testimony written from the heart is truly God inspired, as compared to Prayer of Jabez – A truly fine the one that is a work of the mind. first book from Bruce Wilkerson. These are the ones that change This short book will change your others lives also, when shared. mind about being disobedient to God by not taking care of people in need Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 9 July 2008 Get With the Program
Get With The Program For the following questions that will be An individual is sitting in a chair given, think simple and short answers. and has the TV on to a sports game, and doing “12 oz. curls.” (lifting a 12 oz. can Does it make a difference what team to his lips) What is he doing? His you’re on, as long as you’re in the response is, “I’m playing football.” We game? YES! What makes the difference. would all acknowledge that we are not playing unless we are in the game. Teasmmates
What is the difference of; Coach (Jesus) Spectator Vs. Plan or plays Participator Practice A spectator gets excitement from what someone else does. In Luke 5 we read the story of the disciples that fished and caught nothing, A participator causes excitement for and then had a carpenter try to teach others as well as himself, and is these professional fishermen how to promoted by the spectators. catch fish.
------Luke 5 (King James Version) deep, and let down your nets for a Cast Your Nets on the Other Side draught.
1 And it came to pass, that, as the 5 And Simon answering said unto him, people pressed upon him to hear the Master, we have toiled all the night, and word of God, he stood by the lake of have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy Gennesaret, word I will let down the net.
2 And saw two ships standing by the 6 And when they had this done, they lake: but the fishermen were gone out of inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and them, and were washing their nets. their net brake.
3 And he entered into one of the ships, 7 And they beckoned unto their which was Simon's, and prayed him that partners, which were in the other ship, he would thrust out a little from the land. that they should come and help them. And he sat down, and taught the people And they came, and filled both the ships, out of the ship. so that they began to sink.
4 Now when he had left speaking, he 8 When Simon Peter saw it, he fell said unto Simon, Launch out into the down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.
Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 10 July 2008 partners with Simon. And Jesus said 9 For he was astonished, and all that unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth were with him, at the draught of the thou shalt catch men. fishes which they had taken: 11 And when they had brought their 10 And so was also James, and John, ships to land, they forsook all, and the sons of Zebedee, which were followed him. ------
Luke 5 (New International Version) 6 When they had done so, they caught The Calling of the First Disciples such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 1 One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, with the people 7 So they signaled their partners in the crowding around him and listening to the other boat to come and help them, and word of God, they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink. 2 he saw at the water's edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were 8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at washing their nets. Jesus' knees and said, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!" 3 He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to 9 For he and all his companions were put out a little from shore. Then he sat astonished at the catch of fish they had down and taught the people from the taken, boat. 10 and so were James and John, the sons 4 When he had finished speaking, he of Zebedee, Simon's partners. Then said to Simon, "Put out into deep water, Jesus said to Simon, "Don't be afraid; and let down the nets for a catch." from now on you will catch men."
5 Simon answered, "Master, we've 11 So they pulled their boats up on worked hard all night and haven't caught shore, left everything and followed him. anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets." ------
Why did Peter tell Christ he would Doubt? Is Doubt a sin? God throw out the net(s)? says we must come with the faith of a child. Example of David as a young What did Peter expect when he cast the man, then as a King. David went from net? “faith” to “Foolish”.
Why did Peter say, “Depart from me; for How often do we exclude God from our I am a sinful man” ? working environment?
Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 11 July 2008 We hear constantly about the separation us to trust Him. He can make us of church and state; that prayer should successful at our job. Remember, not be in schools; diversity in the success can come in different forms. workplace. Society is trying to keep God Even if we are successful in our career, in the church building, and too many He may have something else in mind for times we buy in to it. us, just as He did His disciples.
How many find Christ while in prison, Listen to Jesus only to leave Him there when they leave? Read the “Owners Manual”
What did these professional fishermen Becoming our Surroundings think when a carpenter was telling them how to do their business? Do we accept Putting our body in a tub of cold Christ as “The Authority?” water, we become cold. Putting our body in a tub of hot water, we become They were tired from failing at what hot. What we are surrounded by, we they knew best, yet they obeyed Jesus. become. He made these fishermen successful at How do we avoid sliding back their jobs, but he had a new job in mind into the previous problems – just as what for them. determines value in real estate, it is “Location, Location, Location. – How often do we fail at our jobs? Location determines the value of our lives as well. How often do we fail in life? We should also radiate our contents (Christ’s filling with the Spirit) Do the failures come when we try to do so much, that we surround whatever is it in some way other than what God has near us. Our lives should be so planned? overflowing that they splash God on those near us. What about conflicts we may encounter We have those that are being with others? released and say “I’m not going to be involved with my old ways. I am just How often do we feel like we are just going to hang around with my friends.” spinning our wheels? Remember the analogy of the “Participator” vs. the “Spectator?” The Maybe we haven’t looked to the participator is activated and encouraged Master/Coach for help. Jesus is asking by the spectator.
Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 12 July 2008 Wallpaper, Checkbooks, and Displays
Many of you know of my stand what they do not have) than they express of importance – God First, Spouse 2nd, in God. Family 3rd, and others 4th. That is where we get JOY Importance of where our time and travels are to.
Jesus I get amused when someone tells me that they do not have time to do ministry or read the Bible, and then see Others them spend 4 hours watching a ball game for just enjoyment. Often the Yourself individuals will drive for 4 hours to get to a game, then watch for 4 hours, spend large amounts of money for over priced And we actually have an hotdogs and beverages, and then drive instruction manual (the Owner’s back home for 4 hours. Then you will Manual) hear from them that they do not have time, money or gas to help with ministry. Basic Simple as our computer Wallpaper
Instructions You can tell what is important to an individual by such items as what they Before have displayed as their screen saver or wallpaper on their computer. I used to Leaving like to display family members, secluded paradise locations, or some of the different cars I liked, on my computer Earth wallpaper and screen saver. Then I realized that those items were displayed So the question comes as to how before me (and everyone else that came do we know what book of instructions to my office) much of the day. I realized we are following and what is the order of that I needed wallpaper according to importance of “things” to us. “significance” (summary of the 7 S’s that we base M.O.M. ministry on) in my Checkbook and bank account.. life, Now on my wallpaper, you will see Linda holding her “Jail bar Cross” that Christ commands that we be she received from Bill Glass Ministry. good stewards of the things He has You see, right below God, is the spouse, entrusted us with. Look at the spending and a picture of a spouse holding habits of many individuals. They something that represents ministry, just express more faith in spending (spending catches it all !!
Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 13 July 2008 The Matching Gift
We have many individuals that promise that I will serve you the rest of express their concern for “brothers,” my life if you will make sure I don’t die “affiliates,” “family,” and “friends.” in this prison. I am even willing to They see the activities going on in the spend the 42 years in prison serving you, world and streets. They see the as long as I know I will get out of prison senseless shedding of blood and loss of some day.” lives. We see the stand for those who Mike had served a total of 7 of are like thinking or affiliation. The those 42 prison years, when his case Bible states we are to reach out to the worker called him in to look at her lost, not just the “like.” Christ reached computer screen. He asked, “What do out to “all.” you want me to look at?” She answered, “Look at your name.” Mike answered, I Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, don’t see it.” She said, “Look again.” Love your enemies, bless them Mike said, I still don’t see it.” She that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them replied, “Exactly, for some unknown which despitefully use you, and reason, your name was removed from persecute you; the system 3 months ago, and we need to release you.” Luke 6:27 But I say unto you During Mike’s time in prison, he which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, had kept his Northern affiliation. One day Mike was on the yard and was Luke 6:35 But love ye your approached by an individual named enemies, and do good, and lend, Oscar. Oscar was Southern high hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and structure. Oscar looked at Mike and ye shall be the children of the said, “Do you want to play some Highest: for he is kind unto the basketball?” Mike replied, “You know unthankful and [to] the evil. what will happen if we do this?” Oscar replied, “Yes, I know. So, do you want Many people are searching for to play?” Mike looked around and said the answer to solve the violence we see “Let’s do it.” Almost immediately as all around. I think of a situation that they started, about 20-30 individuals of developed with an individual I have each affiliation gathered around and done jail ministry with, Mike G. asked what they were doing? They said While Mike was locked up in “Playing basketball.” The ‘affiliates’ prison (actually a 4 striker that was said “you cannot do this,” and Mike and sentenced to 42 years), he feared never Oscar’s response was “we are going to making it out of prison and dying in a play basketball.” The group watched for prison facility. He came to a point in his a short time, and then dispersed to leave life that he leaned against one of the them to play. concrete walls in the prison and started Matching Gift (?) to pray the following; “God, I don’t One Red rag and one Blue Rag = know who you are, where you are, or if two Purple rags (Purple is the Royalty you even exist. Reveal yourself to me color of Christ). and do not let me die in this prison. I
Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 14 July 2008 Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 15 July 2008 Testimony
God has moved in my life and I’m only a year while struggling to keep my head afloat 26 years old. My testimony is this; above the turbulent waters of life. I found out I was pregnant with my 3rd child, a beautiful At age 7 I saw my Uncle Chris die with bouncy baby boy, now a year old. My aids and a year later I watched my grandmother boyfriend, who stuck it out through my Kay die from diabetes. She just quit caring for stupidity, and I are still together and now have herself and quit taking her medication. That all 3 children in my 4 bedroom, 2 bath house. same year, I saw and witnessed a suicide of my February of this year, I got my 2nd girl back. friend C.J., age 7, kill herself. God has the power to give you what you I come from a poor home where we had want/need when He believes you are ready. to scrimp and save for everything, but God still After all my trials of pain, heartache, error in had provided for our home. judgment, and me being me (hard headed), I In 1999, I lost my mother, Anita, to have learned to have some patience and now diabetes, and moved into my father’s home after know that when I pray to Him, He WILL 13 years of not seeing or being around his side ANSWER my prayers in HIS TIME, not mine. of the family. This was strange. He was an It just takes patience. CDW alcoholic and an addict to drugs. I was doing the drugs as well. p.s. May God please those who read this In 2001, I lost Clifton for my father. He and know that they ARE NOT ALONE if they was hit head on by an 18 wheeler and a white have God in their corner. SUV, off of I-30 & Dolphin Rd. in Dallas. ------After so much death, I found it hard to “Keep the Faith.” Wit the faith faltering in my Note from Bob; Stories similar to this one life, I cursed God and hated Him for taking my are told many times over. The devil does family away. My life support is what you can not give up easily and loves nothing more call it. I continued my drugs and alcohol intake, than to create hurt and anger in situations. consuming an 8 ball of speed in 45 minutes, When describing “patience” brings to mind wishing to die to be with them. the verses on “wait upon the Lord” I met my daughter’s father at my uncle’s house and almost 2 years later, I was granted Psalms 37:9 For evildoers shall with my daughter, Kaylynn, now age 6. I quit be cut off: but those that wait my drugs 6 months before I found out I was upon the LORD, they shall pregnant with her (about 4 months pregnant). inherit the earth. I moved to Bismarck, AR. and got Isaiah 30:18 And therefore will married to a very dear friend of mine. Even the LORD wait, that he may be though my marriage only lasted 2 ½ years, we gracious unto you, and therefore gave birth to my second daughter Alizabeth, will he be exalted, that he may now 4 years old. After a very depressing, have mercy upon you: for the violent, painful, agonizing, and unjust divorce in LORD [is] a God of judgment: 2006, I lost my daughters to my ex-husband’s blessed [are] all they that wait mother. For a year under close watchful eyes, I for him. was only able to see my daughters 3 times and Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait never able to bring them home. I finally got upon the LORD shall renew justice and was allowed to bring the oldest of the [their] strength; they shall two home. mount up with wings as eagles; After that, I moved out of my house and they shall run, and not be ended up in motel after motel and finally landed weary; [and] they shall walk, in the Dallas Life Foundation (2006) for almost and not faint.
Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 16 July 2008 Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 17 July 2008 Poetry Eye of the Soul
My citizenship is in Heaven Good fruits of humility. I’m a Pilgrim in this place; Eye of the Soul restored The eye of the Soul now revealed Redeemed sevenfold Love has a face. The truth is a light that is radiant
Descend upon me spirit Nothing is untold. That I may now be sealed, The vision of the cross is my passion Strengthen my soul And the force that lives within As I walk the cold battlefield As I awake to this new day Unafraid to begin again . . . Hope is my promise Faith is my shield Israel McKenzie Lead me beside still waters ------Let me rest in green fields. Life’s Many Twists and Turns
What is the essence of life Life’s many twists and turns, it seems Can I now behold? Have left me quite a mess Here is my sacrifice Once drawn by dreams and promises My life poured out I’ve settled now for less.
Like an offering of Gold. Decisions much regretted The eye of the soul Have belittled common sense. Discerns the deepest thoughts of man Leaving room for little to I walk in confidence Be said in my defense
As I know just who I am. Someday when all is said and done The new birth is here Quite certainly I’ll see And this is now my creed The roads I should have traveled down Heed the valiant battle cry On paths just meant for me.
Onward, I now proceed. For hindsight is a blessing, true Destiny is beautiful, The things we should have done And upon its wings I do fly The wise man has the answers , The Lord around me, above me, Though not me, I’m not the one.
Before me, be my guide. I don’t remember yesterday What was yesterday Perhaps I should, it’s true But a distant memory? I focus on today because Divine obedience yields Somedays I have no clue.
David Marsh ------
Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 18 July 2008 ------My values change from day to day BOLD AS A LION Influenced by my view The view outside my window now Failure is what I get from trying Seems somehow all quite new. My past life is dying Fear has no place here and David Marsh I live for what I hold dear ------Never Again Jesus . . . the Risen One Never again God’s only Chosen Son Will I subject myself He keeps me pushing on Faithfully To the torment of sins He is my love..Peace…and serenity I take my thoughts in captivity BOLD AS A LION I do not want them to offend. Never again I live my life this way Are the words My determination will never fade Inside my head My past life is dead “Judge not lest you be judged” The Lord commands it’sd time to be fed Is what the Lord has said Never again, I’m walking in a dry desert land Will I lie to myself, Secure in your Victorious right hand Or believe I’m someone greater As I turn away from worldly lust I surrender to you wholeheartedly And prepare to return to the dust And accept you as my Savior. BOLD AS A LION You are Lord And your compassion fails not I felt the pain of my past life dying In you I persevere And now I am no longer trying I will run and never stop I’ve found that my tears are now I no longer wrestle with A different kind of crying And exercise futility Now I worship in the House of Zion I swear I will serve You BOLD AS A LION With all my ability. Pride falls away Israel McKenzie And is shattered into pieces ------Never will I part from You The View Outside My Window It is You who frees us. With the atonement of our sins The view outside my window, Brand new life begins. Now the world out there I see Never again will I choose That’s changed so much from yesterday To waste a single day The changes are in me. Never again will I live Behind a wall of pain The window that I look thru now Never again will I be Affected by this change Alone and afraid What seemed quite normal yesterday Today now seems quite strange Israel McKenzie ------
Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 19 July 2008 ------
Hand in Hand, Thru Unity Life’s many twists and turns. A prime example I have been Wake up brothers, me and you But isn’t really there. The Lord’s work’s never done He needs us more than ever now But what I wasn’t yesterday He needs us, every one Is not what I will be I’ll turn my focus from the past Hand and hand, thru unity For now God’s guiding me. Our message will be heard It’s time we worked together, now David Marsh Join hands to spread His word ------
We’ll put aside all differences My God To reach one common goal And one by one, in unity At special times, in special ways We’ll save another soul. My god talks to me At times when things are difficult Salvation is the gift we’ll share My god helps me see God’s will, so it shall be I’m ready anywhere or time On roads that fork so many ways Please, won’t you join with me? My god helps me choose If I but follow his advice David Marsh With my God I can’t loose. ------What I Wasn’t Yesterday When I am troubled, heavy heart There ain’t no going back for me To my God I will turn My past is in the past Such strength His message gives to me Yesterday is gone for good I’ve so much more to learn Today is going fast If I should stray and wander lost Could have, would have, and should have My God leads the way been Following His directions, true Descriptions of despair I’ll be with Him someday. Illusions of what might have been But isn’t really there. David Marsh ------I am not what I thought I’d be
Letter From M.O.M. Volume 38 20 July 2008