RAVEN Donna

Summer!!! Gospel!!

2011-09-11T15:22:00.001-04:00

I am amazed at what God's doing in York, PA.
There have been several evangelistic organizations pop up and I've been blessed to be able to jump on board with them, I just show up, evangelize, and help clean up. God has been gracious to make the events a success.

The first outreach was near Princess Street, not too far from Gus's bar, there is a parking lot. As I was leaving the "block party" (Holy Ghost block party,) I noticed a coke machine behind a house and a little rest area. I stopped to inquire what the building was, whether it was a store or what? The guy out back said it's a recovery home! Oh! Awesome! So, I shared my testimony and testified about the kingdom and power of God. He's seen God work in his life, but wasn't sure about Jesus. I was so excited that He wanted to know God and have a relationship with our Lord, and SAvior!! I thank God for the Gospel of the Kingdom, always willing to meet all our needs!! (see

Mat 4:23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people.)

The young man to whom I was ministering was intersted in finding a church. The next thing ya know (a suddenly moment), another fellow shows up who attends a Bible believing church and invited the new guy to go along!   Thank you Jesus and Holy Spirit, my Helper!!

I'm consantly amazed at God's orchestration! What an awesome Conductor we have---Author and Finisher of our Faith...continuing the Good Work He began!

I have so much more to tell...of the wonderful things God is doing in His kingdom right here on earth!   Right now, I must go pray some more...a lady just walked in ...needs prayer...(I'm at Panera..my favorite "date place with Jesus," although, He's with me everywhere.

Holy Spirit says, "do tell."   That makes me smile as I think of this: "Go tell it on the mountains and everywhere, that Jesus Christ is Lord!" Amen? Selah.

Isa 44:23 Sing, O heavens; for Jehovah has done it. Shout, lower parts of the earth. Break out into singing, O mountains, O forest, and every tree in it. For Jehovah has redeemed Jacob, and glorified Himself in Israel.

So, I'm singing!! lalalalala; Jesus is Lord and that makes it a good day! Everyday! Amen?

God bless you, my friends!

Raven Donna's Summer Outreach Schedule

2011-06-04T12:49:00.005-04:00

SUMMER OUTREACH SCHEDULE for York, PA surrounding areas:

Exciting! Good News!

York outreaches this summer:

BRIDGING THE GAP: Bridging the Gap (B.T.G.) is a team of evangelists in York City, PA who have set up a series of outreach events. There’s also a group, Evangelism Street Ministry (ESM), who have set up several outreach and evangelism opportunities. Other outreach opportunities are Hope for the City in Gettysburg and VBS on Maple Street led and organized by the York Alliance (YCOA. Here’s RAVEN Donna’s outreach schedule for the summer:

June 5th Harvest Chapel, Helping Hands Outreach, York 5 p.m (meet at H.C.3:30p.m)

June 10^th E.S.M E.S.M @ St. Paul’s, W. Poplar, York 6-8 p.m.

June 11^th Women’s Prayer meeting, Hanover 8-10 a.m. (call me if interested)

Hanover outreach TBA (to be announced, where ever the Lord leads:D)

June 16- 19 Hope for the City (Gettysburg) 4-8:30 p.m. daily

June 25^th Code Blue w/ Brigdeway (Baltimore) 10a.m-4 p.m.

July 8^th E.S.M @ St. Paul’s Evangel , W. King (York) 6-8 p.m.

July 16^th B.T.G @ William’s Park, York 12-5 p.m.

July 23^rd Prayer walk (Prep 4 VBS), Maple St. York 9-11 a.m.

July 30^th Prayer walk and VBS Flyers, Maple St. York 9-11 a.m.

Aug 10-5 VBS nightly, Maple Street Park, York 6 p.m.

Aug 12 E.S.M @ St. Paul’s, W. Poplar, York 6-8 p.m.

Aug 20^th E.S.M @ Broad St., York 12-5 p.m.

Sept. 9^th York (location-to be announced) 6 p.m.

God bless you! Keep us in your prayers. Of course, we’re praying and believing God for souls, miracles and healings, deliverance and freedom for the captives, and the good news will be preached to the poor!

In Jesus, Amen!!

Isa 61:1 The Spirit of the Lord Jehovah is on Me; because Jehovah has anointed Me to preach the Gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound;

Isa 61:2 to preach the acceptable year of Jehovah and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn;

Isa 61:3 to appoint to those who mourn in Zion, to give to them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the mantle of praise for the spirit of heaviness; so that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of Jehovah, that He might be glorified.

Isa 61:4 And they will build the old wastes…

Amen!!!

Memorial Weekend--Baltimore Outreach

2011-06-04T12:43:00.000-04:00

Testimony!!! This weekend I celebrate and testify to 14 years sober, by the grace of God and all glory to Him, in Jesus Christ, our Savior!! Happy Reb-birth day to me!!! Thank to Jesus!

At Baltimore, Davies Street, Code Blue Homeless Outreach
and Post Office Park with Bridgeway Church and Pastor Sharon:

Baltimore outreach was incredible! Several people received prayer and were healed on Davies Street Saturday.

We thank God for Kenny’s healing in Baltimore today!! He was suffering from a low-back injury and God demonstrated His great love for Kenny today! The Gospel came in Word and in Power!!

1Co 4:20 For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.

Kenny was in awe of Almighty God who came to meet His need. He almost turned me down when I asked him if he wanted prayer as he walked up with a cane and limp. He said plenty of people had prayed for him before. He goes to church and ….and then I told him God wants to heal him and started praying… fully believing God for the manifest presence of the Living God to show up and touch this man. I told him that the prayer of faith WILL heal the sick (James 5:14) and(politely) took the liberty to lay hands on him. (I think I asked permission again and he said ok.)

As Kenny lifted his head from prayer, tears were streaming down his face, his pain was gone, and his countenance was changed. As he walked from the sidewalk to the street, he proclaimed, “Wow! I wanna stay in that all the time…what great power…” I told him as he abides in Christ he can walk in the presence of God all the time.

The greek word saved in James 5:14 is the same as and it is in John 3:17, “sozo,” which means delivered, protected, healed, preserved, saved, to do well and be made whole.

Joh 3:17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but so that the world might be saved through Him.

The greek definition of sozo (G4982)--to save, that is, deliver or protect (literally or figuratively): - heal, preserve, save (self), do well, be (make) whole.

Yay! Our amazing God showed up and and made Kenny well. Many others received prayer, ice pops, and snacks at the homeless shelter in Baltimore. All praise and glory to God in Christ Jesus for His great mercy, love, and grace towards these people. Also, please pray for Larry who is deaf (currently.) Others receiving prayer for jobs and housing, healing and God’s provision were: Stephanie, Ty, Sydney, and Mariam.

There’s more! A lady at post office park mentioned how my eyes shine and I thanked her but also told her about the Light of God shining in our lives, to let our light so shine before men. She loved the Truth and the Light, and thanked me for preaching the good news and for also sharing this Truth, the hope of glory for all men:

Mat 6:22 The light of the body is the eye. Therefore if your eye is sound, your whole body shall be full of light.

Mat 6:23 But if your eye is evil, your whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!

Just after that Word of Truth another young lady with a video camera started singing praises to God and the children joined in , therefore let us worship the King of Kings and Lord or Lords, Jesus, who loved us and died for us; Let us worship Him in Spirit and Truth. Amen.

Let us also give thanks to the Holy One, our Lord Jesus Christ, for answered prayer and for meeting the needs of His beloved children In Baltimore, those who seek after Him. We thank God in Christ Jesus for restoring them to right relationship with God, the Father. We thank God for good news: freedom for the captive, deliverance from evil, and the healing power of Jesus Christ. All glory to God. Amen. Blessings to you, in Christ and love in our Lord.

Raven Donna

Baltimore

2011-05-21T13:52:00.000-04:00

I love…I love Your presence, (God!)

God shows up at Davies Street:

The last saturday of every month I go to Baltimore to meet Janet. She is such a pleasure to work with in outreach, an amazing woman of God, on fire, preaching the gospel daily.

Last month we joined Bridgeway Church in Essex Baltimore to bless the Code Blue Homeless Shelter in Baltimore. We took water, clothing and bath supplies. Janet’s daughter, Destiny, and her boyfriend’s mom joined us. We were blessed to touch lives. A man in a wheelchair, Kenny received pray for healing. He’s blind, but he sees (spiritually!) He loves to worship Jesus and the presence of God was heavy on him.

I met a young man, “Alexandra,” who was born male and thinks that he’s female. He’s planning to marry Mr. Brown. I called him Alex. He received prayer and truth. He read the Word of Truth himself, plus admits that he was born male. The seeds are planted. We trust the Lord to send water, increase, and break-through for Alex (1 Corin 3:6).

We thank God for healing Jen who is due to have her baby any day now. (2 weeks later, here's the update: she had a baby girl!!) Janet’s been working with Jen for over a year, now and Jen has had great success recovering from her addiction. Glory to God Most High!

Many others received Truth and prayer. God will continue the good work He began. We prayed for jobs and homes. Here are a few others to keep in prayer: Timothy, Cheryl, and RoseAnne. We love God who loves perfectly. We thank God for His provision and answered prayers, for His heart of compassion for his people, and for the Good News of Jesus Christ. Thank you Father; Thank you Lord Jesus Christ.

It was a successful day and successful weekend. All glory to Him who gives us everything we need to carry out the ministry through Christ Jesus.

1Pe 4:11 If anyone speaks, let it be as the words of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as of the ability which God gives, so that God may be glorified in all things through Jesus Christ, to whom is the glory, and the might forever and ever. Amen.

One House Standing!!

2011-05-08T16:38:00.000-04:00

ONE HOUSE STANDING:

Tuscaloosa, ALA.

At Mardi Gras, I met a guy who told me how he rebukes the storm and it obeys. So, a few Wednesdays ago, I felt this terrible anxiousness in my heart and spirit. I kept praying against it and it wouldn’t go away. A few hours later, I talked to John, my friend from Albama (the guy who rebukes the storm…) He says, Oh! My sister lives in Tuscaloosa and a tornado is headed that way---let’s pray! So, we prayed. He rebuked the storm…. We kept praying….(even after we hung up the phone from our conversation.) Later that evening, we chatted. John said, Hey did I tell ya about my sister? (I’m waiting with baited breath.) No! What happened? Well, she had to walk home from work the destruction was so bad that she couldn’t get within two miles of her house. As she walked, the elementary school was down, and the strip mall was down (“flat on the ground”.) Every house in her neighborhood was down, except one. One house standing---Lisa’s house was standing alone, unscathed in a totally destroyed neighborhood. God had mercy. Of course, I’m hooting at this point, “Glory to God! Praise God! He heard your prayer!”

The next day, after talking to his sister, John said, Hey…did I tell ya? Lisa’s husband was in the basement when the storm hit! He was an unbeliever! (I’m thinking..not anymore! He saw the hand of God! How can you deny that…that God spared him, that God saved him?!) How can you NOT believe when terror strikes a whole town and yours is the only house standing?! God is amazing—obviously powerful. And He is alive! He hears the prayer of the righteous man. He heeds the cry of His children. And He IS wonderfully, merciful and loving, God. Here is account of Jesus, the Son of God and His great power, and how His followers stand in awe of Him:

“LET US PASS OVER TO THE OTHER SIDE”

Mar 4:35 And evening having come, He said to them on that day, Let us pass over to the other side.

Mar 4:36 And when they had sent away the crowd, they took Him with them as He was in the boat. And there were also other little boats with Him.

Mar 4:37 And there arose a windstorm, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was now full.

Mar 4:38 And He was in the stern of the boat, asleep on a headrest. And they awakened Him and said to Him, Master, do You not care that we perish?

Mar 4:39 And He awakened and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, Peace! Be still! And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

Mar 4:40 And He said to them, Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?

Mar 4:41 And they feared exceedingly and said to one another, What kind of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?

Pro 10:25 As the storm passes, so the wicked is no more; but the righteous is an everlasting foundation.

Psa 107:29 He makes the storm a calm, so that its waves are still.

(Knowing the terror of the Lord, we persuade men…2 Corin 5:1)

Mardi Gras 2011

2011-03-23T19:21:00.006-04:00

...so much fun!! hearts were rent as we worshipped and prayed for the lost. Ministry on Bourbon STreet and in the French Quarter went great as well.

Here's an awesome night on Bourbon Street. These two young gals came up to us with questions; now that's a divine appointment! One admits her anger at God because her friend who's 25 years old has cancer. That's definitely NOT God's will---cancer! The Holy Spirit really touched their hearts as we talked and tears fell. Eventually, both of these young ladies received prayer for salvation, strength and their friend's health and recovery.

2nd pic:
Becky had a "Word of knowledge" for this guy. He's supposed to be a youth pastor and shrunk back after some trials, but God wants to continue the good work He began. So, Becky was able to encourage him to get back on track.

Heb 10:35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.
Heb 10:36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.
Heb 10:37 For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.
Heb 10:38 Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.
Heb 10:39 But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

Last, not least, here's Deborah in Iberville who got set free from crack cocaine. She's called me a few times to let me know she's doing well, "no cravings!" Praise God and all glory to Him! After we prayed for her she went to the alter.

Mat 11:11 Truly I say to you, Among those who have been born of women there has not risen a greater one than John the Baptist. But the least in the kingdom of Heaven is greater than he.

Thank you everyone who prayed for us. We had an awesome time! God still moves mountains and He told us to do the same:

Mar 11:23 For truly I say to you that whoever shall say to this mountain, Be moved and be cast into the sea, and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that what he said shall occur, he shall have whatever he said.
Mar 11:24 Therefore I say to you, All things, whatever you ask, praying, believe that you shall receive them, and it will be to you.
Amen! Amen!! Amen!!!

York Helping Hands

2011-02-05T11:35:00.002-05:00

York Helping Hands Outreach was incredible!!

Over 50 people from Harvest Chapel gathered on Sunday the 30th of January to reach out to York’s homeless with warm food, bagged lunches, warm clothing, gloves, hats, scarves and coats. Having spent plenty of time in fasting and prayer over the past three weeks, we were confident that God would show up and show off. He doesn’t have to prove Himself, but He likes to:

Joh 14:21 He who has My commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves Me. And he who loves Me shall be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will reveal Myself to him.

Several times the Holy Spirit would tell me to pray for someone’s health and when I told them that God told me to pray for their health many broke into tears as they were touched by the presence and kindness of God extending His hand to heal them.
Several hundred people and families were fed and received care on Sunday. Many were blessed abundantly. Helping hands of York feeds at three outreach locations every Saturday and Sunday evening. We hope to continue joining other churches in ministering to the people of York.

God keeps speaking to me about His agape' love for people everywhere. We know no greater love than this. That our Lord, Jesus Christ laid down His life for us (John 15:!3)...the least we can do is serve Him (Romans 12:1.) Amen. I hear it again, "Do you agape' me?" Let's say, "Yes, Lord!" Amen.

Christmas in York!

2011-01-24T19:08:00.004-05:00

Oh, I know it's been over a month since the annual Southeast Alliance outreach in York, PA (at Hannah Penn Middle School), but...it was so good! I was with a prayer team in the lobby where I saw a lot of sad faces heading toward the gymnasium to pick up gifts for their families. Man, I'd be excited about that wouldn't you?! So, I started open-air preaching about the Good News of Jesus: "...good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people....born...a Savior, Christ, the Lord!" (Luke 2:10-11). That opened the door to pray for quite a few people.

A Spanish-speaking lady was glad to have a seat and get prayer for healing for her knee pain which went away--"suddenly!" I was able to share some Scriptures with her in a Spanish Bible to encourage her. The free Bible disappeared quickly. Many people came up to us and asked for them. I also prayed for another lady who had a tumor recently removed. When she went for the surgery, they said it was much smaller than they thought. God is so good!

Many people were encouraged. Sadness changed to joy, except for a few children who cried when they had to stop bouncing on the moon bounces.

There were over 400 volunteers and 1600 people who were fed, ministered to and received gifts.

It blessed my heart to be a part of reaching so many people. I thank God, all glory to Him for His grace and abundant blessings to the people of York and surrounding areas.

Oh, a side note. Many of you know Courtney and Joe from Firedside in York. Courtney got baptized in York about 5 years ago when RAVEN had a big outreach in the park on E. Maple STreet. I got to meet their two lovely little girls this Christmas. It was awesome to reunite with Courtney after several years. Please keep them in prayer. Blessings! And Happy New Years!

Code Blue Baltimore

2010-11-03T20:01:00.002-04:00

October 30, 2010

Some friends of mine from Harvest Chapel came along to Baltimore on Saturday for the “Code Blue” outreach. We met Janet Wood (from Essex) and the Bridgeway Church team (with Pastors Lou and Sharon Wamsley) for outreach. The HC team took a few bags of clothes for men and women and then headed to Essex to help make PB&J sandwhiches and bag lunches. The outreaches were very successful! We visited two spots: after “Code Blue” (homeless shelter) and the Fayette Street park. We visited Harbor Place and prayed for people there, enjoying the sights and shops and food. The incredible diversity of people there was really fun for our team and we enjoyed seeing some people who had dressed up, but were bummed that we didn't get to talk to them. There was a group of “Ghost Busters,”...hmmmm? I wonder if they were “Holy Ghost” Busters or the other kind.
Most of all the team from HC was incredibly grateful to be used of God and honored that these guys would come up to them for prayer. The fun part for me was praying for a guy, Len, who had metal in His arm. I had prayed before going to B.town for clues of who was God's treasure for the day and Holy Spirit gave me a Word of Knowledge: metal. When I met Len and he said he has metal in his arm, I just laughed and laughed! Janet testified about a guy at her church who God miraculously healed of the metal in his body, still, Len was a little surprised that God can do it! So, we prayed and encouraged him and we're believing God for restoration for Len so he can work again. Thanks for your prayers and praise God for Len's healing! Amen? All glory to Him in Jesus Christ who lives and reigns!

Others for whom we are praying and believing God for jobs, provision, housing and restoration: Solomon and his family, and Ben, Ephraim, and.....ummm...God knows the rest!

Team friends from HC: Dick, John and Becky (from Kansas!) Becky has joined us at HC for The School of Kingdom Living. She has a real big heart for outreach and God uses her gift of phophecy to encourage others. Becky and I hit it off quickly, having a lot in common..she's also a therapist: an aromatherpist and a colon-hydrotherapist! Fun! You must have a great sense of humor when you work with colons...and she does! Welcome to the team, Becky! The guys enjoyed it so much, they're ready to do it again! We thank God for His provision, for His giftings, and His great love, for His manifest Presense and the Holy Ghost! We thank God for souls and His Word(s) in our hearts, minds, and ever on our lips! Praise be to God in Christ Jesus! Much thanks and love.

In Jesus,
Donna

Cyriac's Disease--Healed! HalleluYah!

2010-09-22T15:58:00.003-04:00

Luk 6:19 And all the crowd sought to touch Him, for power went out of Him and healed them all.

A beautiful lady, a cosmetologist from Seattle, sat in front of me at a recent conference. She'd lay on the floor and rest, waiting for God to touch her and heal her. (I was concerned, for just a minute that her beauty would be a distraction to the men...but, ignored that thought and pressed in to listen to the teaching. Later, Jim told me to pray for her, she had "Cyriac's disease." When I had lunch with her later, she told me that she hadn't been able to eat a "square meal" for three years, that she'd mush her food into a shake or cook it to mush in order to be able to eat it. She could eat some small bits and pieces of chicken. When we broke from class for lunch, I felt led to hug her. As I hugged her, of course, I prayed. I felt the power of God fall on that embrace: warmth and peace, so I stayed and prayed a good 10 or 15 minutes. When we broke the embrace, I asked how she felt. She complained of pain all over that she's had for 3 years! Several others had joined in prayer for her. As we pressed in and continued to pray for her she reached out her arms as if reaching for another person. After another 15 or 20 minutes of prayer the pain (all pain in her body) was completely gone. Yay! We were all so happy for her. She confessed that frequently she would ask Jesus to hold her and today it really happened. While praying she saw Jesus with His arms stretched out to her and he completely embraced her and held her until her pain was completely gone. She said, "I know I'm healed!" All I know is that we serve a living and mighty God; He's the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8.) He healed everyone who asked when He walked this earth and He still heals today. In fact, when He said, "it is finished." He meant it: the work is finished, "we were healed," there, on Calvary 2K years ago. We are already healed and we have authority over all sickness and disease (Luke 9:1, 10:19). I ate lunch with the lady and her friend. She ate a full meal with desert, too! God's amazing. He still heals! Amen.

1Pe 2:24 He Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that dying to sins, we might live to righteousness; by whose stripes you were healed.

The Ministry of Righteousness

2010-08-30T17:27:00.000-04:00

Penn Park

Oh! Oh! Oh! My ears were itched and I stopped between prayers to worship to an old favorite tune: “Our God is an awesome God!” The D.J used a new mix and this forty something woman danced like David danced---unashamed before a Holy God! When will I grow up?! I just love having freedom in Jesus----to worship Him. Amen?

There's no time like God-time. Serving Him went smooth and an hour seemed like a minute. Saturday afternoon at the park in York, Sheldon and Resurrect the Streets, along with Glory House, Temple of Glory, and Eastside Church fed more than a few hundred people. Children received back-packs with school supplies and plenty of prayer and love. They heard testimonies and Truth.

Some of our old friends from Maple Street showed up. Junior says Hi to Pastor Sam and his family and all of you who remember him. He's praying blessings for you.

The message that came through predominantly was to pray for people to be strengthened in the grace of God and to encourage them to walk it out, the righteousness that Christ attained for us. Amen, so let's walk it out, not in our might or strength, but His, glory to God in Christ Jesus:

Zec 4:6 Then he answered and spoke to me, saying, This is the Word of Jehovah to Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, says Jehovah of Hosts.

Rom 5:2 Through Him we also have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice on the hope of the glory of God.

Grace---power to do the right thing! Amen

(We glory in afflictions!!)

2Ti 2:12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with Him. If we deny Him, He also will deny us.

It was a ministry of righteousness by grace: “Get right! Grace is available.” Amen

2Co 3:9 For if the ministry of condemnation is glorious, much more does the ministry of righteousness exceed in glory.

Peace and love to everyone. I miss you. Thanks for your prayers

Congratulations to Brittney and Anthony!

Love and hugs, in Jesus, Sister Donna

P.S. It was good to see Gideon, too! Welcome home Gideon!

Clifton Park

2010-08-15T21:46:00.004-04:00

Harvest Chapel missions and outreach team joined several churches in a great outreach in Baltimore yesterday, (Saturday.) It was an incredible blessing, of course! Perhaps, I can fill you in more later, but...am rushing off to finish packing for Mexico. We're leaving at 3 AM!! We will visit 3 orphanages and the colonies (where people live in card-board boxes. We'll feed them and minister the gospel...looking forward to the miracles to follow.

In Baltimore near Clifton Park, (yesterday,) we prayed for a few ladies on methadone for their freedom from that and from alcohol. It was incredible how the Holy Spirit helped us break up a fight; He just drew them (the two ladies who had been fighting) away from each other as we were praying and interceding for them. Yay!! Violence prevented!! God is incredible! We also prayed for some young men on bikes, speaking life into them. It was effective; they came to the event (a Holy Ghost "block party")and it wasn't for the food; they turned that down. Please pray for Fred. He wouldn't tell me what his burden is, but we will just believe God for him, that he will cast his cares upon the Lord and trust Him.
And we'll trust God for freedom for the ladies' deliverance from methadone and alcohol, in Jesus, AMen! Thank you for partnering with me in prayer for His kingdom come and His perfect will being done, in Jesus!! Amen. Amen!

REsurrect Da Streets in YOrk!

2010-08-09T15:44:00.002-04:00

Resurrect da Streets!!

Sheldon from Glory House has been going for God and taking it to the streets of York, PA. As of now, there's three churches involved. At a recent outreach upon arrival, an anointed man of God met me and partnered with me in prayer interceding for several people for jobs, provision and healing: God is faithful!! All of His promises are "yes and Amen!!"

A lady, Anne, wants freedom from nicotine; we, me and Holy Spirit, were able to encourage her with truth and testimonies of deliverance. Thank you God for Anne's freedom!

One of the ministries involved, Changing Destinies, has 3 buses of people and servants, ...they set up food and pray for people. I thank God for this fruitful ministry!! What an awesome example of God's blessing on the lives of His servants! Thank you, Lord Jesus!

...praying for many others...We know God is faithful to heal, to Help, and meet every need. Thank you for partnering with me in prayer for York, PA and surrounding areas. We know God is doing great things for His children, His servants and His people—those called after Him, “Christ-ians.” in Jesus, Amen.

2Co 1:21 It is God who enables us, along with you, to stand firm for Christ. He has commissioned us,
2Co 1:22 and He has identified us as His own by placing the Holy Spirit in our hearts as the first installment that guarantees everything He has promised us.

All glory to Him! In His wonderful Son, Jesus Christ. Amen!

Juanita and More

2010-07-08T18:31:00.002-04:00

Memorial Day Weekend: Juanita— A Miracle!!

“We—need-a miracle” in Baltimore and we got it! God is still in the business of being glorified!
Janet and I drove to Canton Harbor in Baltimore on Memorial Day weekend to see Juanita who was recovering form a near death tragedy, an alcohol induced coma. She is healing wonderfully!! After much prayer, Jaunita is rapidly recovering. Thank you for your prayers of faith, saints! Thank you for your prayers for her continued recovery. We know God will to continue the good work He began. All of His promises are yes and amen!

On the way to Baltimore Janet heard the Lord laugh at us hysterically. We were driving on “e” with very little fuel and no money in our pockets, trusting God to multiply our fuel. Janet covered the fuel gage so that I could not see it and we prayed and praised Him the whole way. I felt like the Lord said that we needed to get gas as soon as possible but there were no exits, no gas stations, and nothing but construction all the way to the nursing home. Suddenly Janet is laughing hysterically as she heard the Lord say, “You have faith for me to raise the dead and heal the sick but you don't think I can put fuel in your tank? Hahahahah! You don't have faith for fuel? Hahahahah,
The results are written and true:

Php 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

We made it to the nursing home and to the gas station. A kind woman sowed into the ministry when we were at the nursing home and we were able to get gas just after that. Thank you God for provision!

About driving on "e": I like this verse, recently pointed out to me, which I think is befitting:

2Co 5:13 For if we are out of our mind, it is to God; or if we are in our senses, it is for you.

Outreach in Essex at Maranatha, Compassion in Action, was great! Janet shared her incredible testimony of how God turned her life around; and I preached the gospel of the Kingdom of God at hand. Many received hope and prayer that evening. The Holy Spirit moved powerfully to heal and deliver whomever would receive God's grace and mercy.

Since Memorial Day, we've been ministering several times a week as the Lord leads, an “as you go Gospel.” I am blessed to have been invited to help serve and heal the sick and wounded in York, Hanover, Gettysburg, Seven Valleys, Abbottstown, Red Lion, Stewartstown, and Shrewsbury. I thank God for this opportunity to partner with Him in ministry:

1Ti 1:12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who strengthened me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry--

Praise be to God and all glory to Him for the healing of the sick, the raising of the dead, the lepers being cleansed, the captives set free, and the good news preached. Glory in Christ Jesus, Amen!

VICTORY IN JESUS!

2010-05-05T16:54:00.003-04:00

VICTORY!!

Gifts! Called out! Caught up! Servants of the Most High: Jehovah!

There's power in the name of Jesus! A group of us were at McDonald's in New Oxford last Sunday. I told them about the visions I had in my prayer time the day before. I saw a guy with a cane walking and lifting his cane, as if he didn't really need it. So, Adam (one of our 7-Valleys youth) and his sister Sarah call me over to help pray for a guy with Lou Gehrig's disease. Sarah had a vision of His leg wrapped in chains with several locks holding the chains together, but the Lord had given her a Spiritual key (imaginary) to unlock them, so she did-unlock the main lock which unlocked them all and loosened his chains. They came off (Spiritually speaking). Meanwhile, we prayed for Bob Hallabaugh's recovery and strength. He stood up and walked and is much stronger. We know God's Word is true, so we simply stand on it: The Truth, the Word of God: We are healed! We were healed---2K years ago at Calvary. Christ said, “it is finished!” We believe Bob is healed. We know he is stronger. God's Truth will continue to manifest along with Bob's healing. Amen.

Mat 16:19 And I will give the keys of the kingdom of Heaven to you. And whatever you may bind on earth shall occur, having been bound in Heaven, and whatever you may loose on earth shall occur, having been loosed in Heaven.

Isa 53:5 But He was wounded for our transgressions; He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was on Him; and with His stripes we ourselves are healed.

1Pe 2:24 He Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that dying to sins, we might live to righteousness; by whose stripes you were healed.

Let us cry, “freedom!” and give all glory to God in Christ Jesus, Who lives and reigns!

Thank you for your continued prayers for healing, deliverance, and souls in Pennsylvania and Maryland. God bless.

Branded

2010-04-20T15:56:00.003-04:00

At a local youth conference this weekend, I found a t-shirt that I like..gotta get it:

"Branded"

Son 8:6 Set me as a seal on Your heart, as a seal on Your arm; for love is strong as death. Jealousy is cruel as the grave; its flames are flames of fire, a flame of Jehovah.
Son 8:7 Many waters cannot quench love, nor will the rivers overflow it. If a man would give all the wealth of his house for love, it would be scorned.

The conference really rocked our socks off. It was way better than any singles conference or meeting because it was there, in worship that we (youngsters/youth) we told that the first kiss just doesn't compare to the perfect love of Christ. I say, Amen!! Yes, the love of Christ in the secret place is better than any physical thing...ever!!! If you don't have it you MUST seek after it with all your being!

Entering into His presence is and has been better than any worldly thing I've ever experienced. I have truly returned to my first love and been "branded" for the kingdom of God! Wow! His love is amazing!

Here's a pretty cool commentary on these Scriptures from Songs of Solomon:
(By the way, take the challenge! REad this to the end and then take the challenge!!)

Son 8:5-7
Here, I. The spouse is much admired by those about her. It comes in in a parenthesis, but in it gospel-grace lies as plain, and as much above ground, as any where in this mystical song: Who is this that comes up from the wilderness, leaning upon her beloved? Some make these the words of the bridegroom, expressing himself well pleased with her reliance on him and resignation of herself to his guidance. They are rather the words of the daughters of Jerusalem, to whom she spoke (Son_8:4); they see her, and bless her. The angels in heaven, and all her friends on earth, are the joyful spectators of her bliss. The Jewish church came up from the wilderness supported by the divine power and favour, Deu_32:10, Deu_32:11. The Christian church was raised up from a low and desolate condition by the grace of Christ relied on, Gal_4:27. Particular believers are amiable, nay, admirable, and divine grace is to be admired in them, when by the power of that grace they are brought up from the wilderness, leaning with a holy confidence and complacency upon Jesus Christ their beloved. This bespeaks the beauty of a soul, and the wonders of divine grace, 1. In the conversion of sinners. A sinful state is a wilderness, remote from communion with God, barren and dry, and in which there is no true comfort; it is a wandering wanting state. Out of this wilderness we are concerned to come up, by true repentance, in the strength of the grace of Christ, supported by our beloved and carried in his arms. 2. In the consolation of saints. A soul convinced of sin, and truly humbled for it, is in a wilderness, quite at a loss; and there is no coming out of this wilderness but leaning on Christ as our beloved, by faith, and not leaning to our own understanding, nor trusting to any righteousness or strength of our own as sufficient for us, but going forth, and going on, in the strength of the Lord God, and making mention of his righteousness, even his only, who is the Lord our righteousness. 3. In the salvation of those that belong to Christ. We must go up from the wilderness of this world having our conversation in heaven; and, at death, we must remove thither, leaning upon Christ, must live and die by faith in him. To me to live is Christ, and it is he that is gain in death.
II. She addresses herself to her beloved.
1. She puts him in mind of the former experience which she and others had had of comfort and success in applying to him. (1.) For her own part: “I raised thee up under the apple tree, that is, I have many a time wrestled with thee by prayer and have prevailed. When I was alone in the acts of devotion, retired in the orchard, under the apple-tree” (which Christ himself was compared to, Son_2:3), as Nathanael under the fig-tree (Joh_1:48), “meditating and praying, then I raised thee up, to help me and comfort me,” as the disciples raised him up in the storm, saying, Master, carest thou not that we perish? (Mar_4:38), and the church (Psa_44:23), Awake, why sleepest thou? Note, The experience we have had of Christ's readiness to yield to the importunities of our faith and prayer should encourage us to continue instant in our addresses to him, to strive more earnestly, and not to faint. I sought the Lord, and he heard me, Psa_34:4. (2.) Others also had like experience of comfort in Christ, as it follows there (Psa_34:5), They looked unto him, as well as I, and were lightened. There thy mother brought thee forth, the universal church, or believing souls, in whom Christ was formed, Gal_4:15. They were in pain for the comfort of an interest in thee, and travailed in pain with great sorrow (so the word here signifies); but they brought thee forth; the pangs did not continue always; those that had travailed in convictions at last brought forth in consolations, and the pain was forgotten for joy of the Saviour's birth. By this very similitude our Saviour illustrates the joy which his disciples would have in his return to them, after a mournful separation for a time, Joh_16:21, Joh_16:22. After the bitter pangs of repentance many a one has had the blessed birth of comfort; why then may not I?
2. She begs of him that her union with him might be confirmed, and her communion with him continued and made more intimate (Son_8:6): Set me as a seal upon thy heart, as a seal upon thy arm. (1.) “Let me have a place in thy heart, an interest in thy love.” This is that which all those desire above any thing that know how much their happiness is bound up in the love of Christ. (2.) “Let me never lose the room I have in thy heart; let thy love to me be ensured, as that deed which is sealed up not to be robbed. Let nothing ever prevail either to separate me from thy love, or, by suspending the communications of it, to deprive me of the comfortable sense of it.” (3.) “Let me be always near and dear to thee, as the signet on thy right hand, not to be parted with (Jer_22:24), engraven upon the palms of thy hands (Isa_49:14), be loved with a peculiar love.” (4.) “Be thou my high priest; let my name be written on thy breast-plate, nearer thy heart, as the names of all the tribes were engraven like the engravings of a signet in twelve precious stones on the breast-plate of Aaron, and also on two precious stones on the two shoulders or arms of the ephod,” Exo_28:11, Exo_28:12, Exo_28:21. (5.) “Let thy power be engaged for me, as an evidence of thy love to me; let me be not only a seal upon thy heart, but a seal upon thy arm; let me be ever borne up in thy arms, and know it to my comfort.” Some make these to be the words of Christ to his spouse, commanding her to be ever mindful of him and of his love to her; however, if we desire and expect that Christ should set us as a seal on his heart, surely we cannot do less than set him as a seal on ours.
3. To enforce this petition, she pleads the power of love, of her love to him, which constrained her to be thus pressing for the tokens of his love to her.
(1.) Love is a violent vigorous passion. [1.] It is strong as death. The pains of a disappointed lover are like the pains of death; nay, the pains of death are slighted, and made nothing of, in pursuit of the beloved object. Christ's love to us was strong as death, for it broke through death itself. He loved us, and gave himself for us. The love of true believers to Christ is strong as death, for it makes them dead to every thing else; it even parts between soul and body, while the soul, upon the wings of devout affections, soars upward to heaven, an even forgets that it is yet clothed and clogged with flesh. Paul, in a rapture of this love, knew not whether he was in the body or out of the body. By it a believer is crucified to the world. [2.] Jealousy is cruel as the grave, which swallows up and devours all; those that truly love Christ are jealous of every thing that would draw them from him, and especially jealous of themselves, lest they should do any thing to provoke him to withdraw from them, and, rather than do so, would pluck out a right eye and cut off a right hand, than which what can be more cruel? Weak and trembling saints, who conceive a jealousy of Christ, doubting of his love to them, find that jealousy to prey upon them like the grave; nothing wastes the spirits more; but it is an evidence of the strength of their love to him. (3.) The coals thereof, its lamps, and flames, and beams, are very strong, and burn with incredible force, as the coals of fire that have a most vehement flame, a flame of the Lord (so some read it), a powerful piercing flame, as the lightning, Psa_29:7. Holy love is a fire that begets a vehement heat in the soul, and consumes the dross and chaff that are in it, melts it down like wax into a new form, and carries it upwards as the sparks towards God and heaven.
(2.) Love is a valiant victorious passion. Holy love is so; the reigning love of God in the soul is constant and firm, and will not be drawn off from him either by fair means or foul, by life or death Rom_8:38. [1.] Death, and all its terrors, will not frighten a believer from loving Christ: Many waters, though they will quench fire, cannot quench this love, no, nor the floods drown it, Son_8:7. The noise of these waters will strike no terror upon it; let them do their worst, Christ shall still be the best beloved. The overflowing of these waters will strike no damp upon it, but it will enable a man to rejoice in tribulation. Though he slay me, I will love him and trust in him. No waters could quench Christ's love to us, nor any floods drown it; he waded through the greatest difficulties, even seas of blood. Love sat king upon the floods; let nothing then abate our love to him. [2.] Life, and all its comforts, will not entice a believer from loving Christ: If a man could hire him with all the substance of his house, to take his love off from Christ and set it upon the world and the flesh again, he would reject the proposal with the utmost disdain; as Christ, when the kingdoms of this world and the glory of them were offered him, to buy him off from his undertaking, said, Get thee hence, Satan. It would utterly be contemned. Offer those things to those that know no better. Love will enable us to repel and triumph over temptations from the smiles of the world, as much as from its frowns. Some give this sense of it: If a man would give all the substance of his house to Christ, as an equivalent instead of love, to excuse it, it would be contemned. He seeks not ours, but us, the heart, not the wealth. If I give all my goods to feed the poor, and have not love, it is nothing, 1Co_13:1. Thus believers stand affected to Christ: the gifts of his providence cannot satisfy them without the assurances of his love.

That's what I'm doing today...getting to know my Jesus! ..And being satisfied in His Presence and with His perfect love...assurance.

Here's the 30 day challenge (actually, a local pastor encouraged us to do it for two weeks, but I'm an overachiever so, I'm going for 30.) Pray for someone every day.
EVERY-DAY!

That means reach out to someone that you don't know every day---and pray! If you lay your head on the pillow and have not reached out to someone whom you do not know...then, get up and go do it...knock on the neighbor's door...get online...or on FB and pray for someone! JUST DO IT! BE LIKE JESUS! CARE. Alright?!!

Get it. Get True love. Get Jesus!
1Jn 4:10 This is real love—not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.
1Jn 4:11 Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other.

Love ya! in Him, (I mean really--in HIs grip)
Donna

Word of Knowledge in Harrisburg

2010-04-06T19:00:00.004-04:00

Poignant:

I recently had an opportunity to visit some ladies in Harrisburg, PA so I decided to join Gideon for outreach that same day. The third Saturday of the month Richie Lewis heads up a ministry team and outreach at Allison Hill and it's always a blessing how various evangelism teams from different churches in the area come together as the body of Christ operating in unity yet with utilizing their diverse gifts for the kingdom at hand. I've always marveled how many lives are touched and changed at these outreaches, so I wanted to investigate further.

Before we hit the streets and during our prayer time we break into groups and pray for Divine appointments and for Words of Knowledge. This gives us clues to whom the Lord would have us minister and how He'd like us to minister. As we're walking to the assigned area, led of the Holy Spirit (the Lord told us “Derry Street,”) I asked Him why this “method.” The response I heard was one Word, “poignant.” I had to check the dictionary for a more clear picture.

The root word means to prick or pierce. Two effective definitions are following:

1. keen or strong in mental appeal: a subject of poignant interest.
2. affecting or moving the emotions: a poignant scene.

Synonyms are:
1. intense, sincere, heartfelt. 4. piquant, sharp.

Interestingly enough, we found everyone on the list on Derry Street (the most populated area we walked), a woman with red boots, a man with fire on his hat, another woman with gold chains around her neck and gold earrings. Words of knowledge were for deliverance and for burdens to be lifted. We met James and prayed for deliverance from alcohol. We ran into a guy whom we (RAVENs)had prayed for 2 years ago for freedom from alcohol and now he is truly free. Other prayer requests were for sons in the military and for help with disaster clean up.

Other outreaches have been in Hanover, Glen Rock and York. We prayed for Bob for healing from blood clots in his lungs. He experienced the fire of God touching him and his whole family witnessed the power of God healing him. We're still praying for full recovery of his lungs. Please pray for him.

We've also been doing a lot of hospital ministry this winter. Please keep in prayer for continued recovery, wholeness, and restored function, total restoration for George Ganyon (cancer), Herm Jackson, Bill Fisher (respiratory), Ken Laughlin, (Ida) Gorsuch (gall bladder,) and Dan Bosley, Sr (cancer).

There have been some interesting encounters with gay and lesbian people as well. We're praying for them to receive revelation knowledge of God's Truth and perfect will for their lives....we ARE still preaching holiness is the standard for heaven; therefore, grace is NOT a cover for sin or a license to continue in it, but Christ and His grace is freedom and power to be delivered from sin and all unrighteousness, and that the only way to holiness and heaven. Amen.

Eph 3:20,21 Now to Him being able to do exceedingly above all that we ask or think, according to the power working in us,to Him be the glory in the assembly in Christ Jesus, to all the generations of the age of the ages. Amen.

Downtown Baltimore

2010-03-07T20:41:00.000-05:00

I'm so grateful for God, Janet, Al, Pete, Charmain, Sharon, Pastor Sam, and all the people praying for our outreaches in Baltimore. Last night's outreach was incredibly blessed! Al made about 50 ham sandwiches and bagged lunches with snacks and chips for homeless people. I thought I was going to Fell's Point, but Janet called with a list of places where the homeless hang out. We ended up on Calvert Street and Lexington and then headed to “the Block” where there's a row of strip clubs. We witnessed to several doormen and then a few “drunks.” The first drunk was Rudolph, who knows he's not living for God and says he wants freedom and strength to “get it together.”

On the block, one guy was crying, devastated that his wife is in jail. He wouldn't say why. Pete prayed for him until he stopped crying. Later, we prayed for several other guys who need freedom for drugs: Victor and Theardus. We really feel like God moved on behalf of these people, especially Victor. We're believing God for freedom, salvation and provision for them. Please keep them in prayer. The only other name I can remember right now is Solomon. God knows who needs what, so we just thank Him for all He's done and for His blessing on our efforts to serve Him. All praise and glory be to Jesus Christ, the one and only true God, all glory and power, forever. Amen! Thank you again for your prayers and praise God! Amen. Amen!!

Furious Love

2010-03-06T16:34:00.001-05:00

“Furious Love”

Imagine that your walk home from work every day is through the part of town where with a few hundred bars and hundreds of prostitutes line the streets. Jesus Christ, Perfect Love died for them. He loves them and wants to set them free from this slavery. Christ, in His teachings, talked about how prostitutes are coming to salvation quicker than the people (the church) whom he has called to serve him who disobey His commands (Matt 21:31).

Tuesday, I met with a young man in military service to our country. He was stationed in Korea where the base is right next to the part of town much like the “red light” district. He said, “it makes the Las Vegas look like Sunday School.” I can only imagine that it's like this movie that I saw on Sunday.

This move, “Furious Love” showed evangelists going into areas like this all over the world to minister the Gospel(www.furiouslove.com). Not only are these people witnessing in the “red light districts” all over the world, but they also have ventured to Witchcraft and New Age Festivals. What stands out about this ministry is the testimony that their first instinct was to go in as warriors equipped for the “war-zone” and ready to fight the Spiritual battle, but, they found this approach ineffective. It didn't work. So, they prayed and sought God asking what to do different...the Holy Spirit said, “love them.” It worked! Demon worshipers, witches, and pagans received prayer, experienced the love of God, and called on the name of Jesus Christ for salvation.

Seeing the lost masses, living in darkness, should compel us to “Go into all the world” as Christ commanded (Mark 16:15, Matt 28:18-20). Knowing that we have military living and working adjacent to streets inundated with sexual immorality and perversion should compel us to pray for them more, and especially to pray for our counties' leadership and for souls.

Praying:
We praise God knowing that the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overtake it (John 1:5). We praise God that all who receive him have been give authority to become children of God (John 1:12, 13,) to be born of God. Therefore, we pray, that believers all over the world would daily seek first God's kingdom and His righteousness (Matt 6:33,) that they would daily seek fellowship with other believers (Hebrews 10:25,) and that they would boldly proclaim the Good News to the ends of the earth. We pray for confidence in the body of Christ, that like Christ, believers everywhere would seek to save that which is lost (Luke 19:10). And we trust that God will do exceedingly, abundantly more than we ask or imagine. Praise God in Christ Jesus, for resurrection power. Amen

Baptized!

2010-03-03T18:00:00.009-05:00

Act 2:38 Then Peter said to them, Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ to remission of sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Al, from Baltimore, is an awesome servant of the Lord. He loves to help people, takes care of an elderly woman with COPD, cooks, and helps with homeless outreach. Sunday, February 28th, Al was baptized for the remission of sins, in accordance with the Word and the example that Jesus set for us.

Praise God for Al dedication to serving Jesus.

R.A.V.E.N Baltimore!

2010-03-03T17:38:00.002-05:00

Nancy and I went to the Baltimore Power Plant to share the love of Jesus: the Truth and the Word of God, "repent!" There are about 6 bars in this area and lots of people who call themselves Christians who line up to party it up for the night and then attend church or confession the next day. We ended up praying for the police, the door man checking I.D's and one young man, Alex, a professing Christian, who was unequally yoked with his girlfriend. Alex and his gal turned from the bar scene and went the other way. We can only hope that the conviction of the Holy Spirit touched their hearts and turned them back to God.

We plan to head to Baltimore Inner Harbor area the 1st and 3rd weekend of every month to do ministry. As of now, we usually go on Saturdays. Eventually, we'd like to revisit Fell's Point, also, perhaps on Friday nights. Another favorite ministry spot in Baltimore is the Helping Hands outreach at the Daily Bread on Guilford Avenue on Sundays. Many eagerly receive prayer and many have come back to tell us that God has provided: jobs, healing, apartments...all praise and glory to God!

Please pray for the lost and dying in Baltimore, especially "Popeye,"(Dennis) who lost two of his friends this winter to the cold conditions. Pray for his deliverance from alcoholism. Thank you.

You are welcome to join us. If interested email Ravendonna@gmail.com.

Mardi Gras 2010

2010-02-17T17:43:00.007-05:00

Mardi Gras 2010 was full of suspense: will I make it there or not? Due to snow storms, I did not arrive until late Saturday evening. Still, as usual, there were plenty of opportunities to witness in the airport and on the plane. What stands out is a young lady who is a "believer," (she knows Christ died for her,) but still hangs out at bars. She had been recently robbed and cut (a slash across her face) by a guy in front of a "strip club" in Baltimore, DeJaVou. I mentioned that as a Christian, we're to follow Christ, that means turning away from perverted things and turning to a life of purity, avoiding all appearance of evil (2 Tim 2:19,1 Thess. 5:22). She was very open to hearing the "Way and the Truth" about following Christ, and she was very grateful for the encouragement. It was a blessing to meet her; we're praying for Crystal to know God more and to understand her Bible.

Sunday night on the streets:
I was saddened by the guy in a wheel-chair, rolling into a bar, who blames God for his condition, "if there were a God, He wouldn't have done this to me!" He retorted. I told Him that God would never have done that to Him and it's not God's will that He be bound and confined to a wheelchair, but he rolled on in the bar and I stopped at the doorway. Oh, how I wanted to chase him, but didn't.

On the street corner, other so-called "Christian" ladies mocked as they held there beer and daiquiris. After bowing down to pray for awhile, a few other Christian couples admitted that they don't belong in that atmosphere, as far as partying goes, so they asked for prayer and for strength to stay pure. We spent most of the evening with a guy, Matt, who knows the Word, but didn't want to humble his heart right there. After some time of ministering the Word and the Truth, and a Word of prophecy, we feel confident that the Words spoken over Matt will not go void and that he will turn back to God, to a right relationship with Him. Praise God, our Savior, in the Lord Jesus, all glory to Him; for His power in the Holy Spirit. We know that all the angels in heaven rejoice over just one soul restored to the kingdom of heaven.

Many people for whom we prayed were healed that weekend. All praise and glory to God, and we thank Him.

Thank God for a safe return to Maryland and Pennsylvania.

Holy Fire Warms Baltimore!

2010-01-25T09:03:00.001-05:00

The Guilford Avenue outreach in Baltimore is always a blessing. There are usually more than 200 people in line for food. RAVEN Baltimore: (Janet, Al, and myself) enjoy ministering to the crowd, individuals, and families as they wait in line for food and supplies.

Most prayer requests are normal: for healing, provision, deliverance and reconciliation, for families and individuals, but one lady requested that we pray the doors open soon because she's cold! I told her I'd pray for Holy Fire to fall and warm her feet. After praying for a few others, she called to me and thanked me: “It worked! I'm warm,” she said. Praise God and let us thank Him; He cares about cold toes! He warms our fingers and He cares about every hair on our heads!

There are many suffering: We teach them to endure, to persevere, to rejoice in all things, to be overcomers. These people WILL inherit the kingdom of heaven, those who overcome.

And we pray for God's provision for His people knowing His promises are true.

Let us look to Him and REJOICE!
Heb 12:2 ...looking to Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and sat down at the right of the throne of God.
Heb 12:3 For consider Him who endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest you be weary and faint in your minds.
Heb 12:4 You have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.

Also, consider the teachings of Paul:
What an awesome example of a servant of God, disciplined: he buffets his body into submission. He encourages us to be content, whether in plenty or in need.

But most of all, He trusts God:
Php 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Therefore, we encouraged, rebuked, and loved them. One guy seemed to be filled with light and love for Jesus,...then he lights up a cigarette, so I prayed over him against addictions, when I renounced “sex addiction"..he started asking questions.

We told him the Truth:
“These people WILL NOT inherit the kingdom of God!” Come on! It's the Truth that sets them free! Come on!
Eph 5:5 For you know this, that no fornicator, or unclean person, or covetous one (who is an idolater), has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.
Eph 5:6 Let no man deceive you with vain words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the children of disobedience.

Come on!
Every good Father chastens those He loves: do you think our heavenly Father, being perfect does not? (Hebrews 12:6)

We're still preaching holiness in PA and MD. God is coming back for a bride with out spot or blemish:
(Eph 5:27) We (the church, God's people) MUST BE READY!
We told them to read and meditate on Ephesians chapters 4&5.

Encouragement and Grace:
2Co 6:1 But working together, we also call on you not to receive the grace of God in vain.
2Co 6:2 (For He says, "In an acceptable time I heard you, and in a day of salvation, I helped you;" Behold, now is the accepted time. Behold, now is the day of salvation.) Amen!
Glory to God! We're thanking Jesus for souls, for sanctification, and for His seal upon them who call upon His Holy Name. We're praising Jesus! And thank God for the victory in Christ! Amen

Baltimore! Baltimore!

2010-01-17T18:42:00.002-05:00

Baltimore!

Please pray for souls in Baltimore. I met a man, Leonard, who suffered in the hospital over Christmas due to illness from HIV and diabetes. I cry every time I think of Him. After much conversation and prayer, I really feel that the Lord wants to use Leonard to reach the gay population in Baltimore. Please pray for Leonard, his healing, and his boldness to encourage others to come to Christ. Please pray for Tony also, who knows he needs to surrender all to Jesus.

GOD'S LOVE EMPOWERS US:

1Jn 4:10 This is real love—not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins....

1Jn 4:15 All who confess that Jesus is the Son of God have God living in them, and they live in God.
1Jn 4:16 We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in His love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them.
1Jn 4:17 And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face Him with confidence because we live like Jesus here in this world.

Lord God, Almighty, empower your people to live like Jesus, in holiness and purity that they might face You with confidence on the day of judgement. Teach all men the Truth about love: that it's not selfish or self-seeking, it prefers others over themselves; and there is no perversion in Christ's perfect love. Empower us to carry this message to the nations, to open deaf ears, open blind eyes, heal the sick and may everyone know Your saving grace. In Jesus Christ, Your Son, Amen

The Other Side

2009-12-28T11:02:00.002-05:00

Preaching the Kingdom in Baltimore:
Mat 4:16 The people who sat in darkness saw a great Light; and Light has sprung up to those who sat in the region and shadow of death."
Mat 4:17 From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, Repent! For the kingdom of Heaven is at hand.

Repent! Repent!
On the streets at Guilford Avenue in Baltimore, we've been preaching: "repent," but what does it mean to repent? These people need to know how to repent and what empowers them to do so.

Knowing they must stop doing what they're doing and knowing they must turn from what displeases God doesn't help them change the behavior, so we encourage them to change they way they think, to be empowered by the power of Christ. When we change how we think and allow God to influence our hearts,and allow the Holy Spirit to do the work, then we are given the desire and strength to do the right thing.

Php 2:13 For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.

Jo Williams and I encouraged Paul, a methadone user, to change his mind. When I asked Paul if he wants free from the methadone he, at first, said, no way! It's too painful and takes too long. Paul needed to change his mind. So, that's what we set out to do. Paul had to be encouraged with the Truth that 1- he's enslaved to the drug and 2-that Christ can set Him free and 3-that God can and will supernaturally give him the strength to endure and overcome.

We can do all things in Christ:
Php 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

We are empowered to partake of the Supernatural:
Rom 8:11 The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, He will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.

As we prayed over Paul, the Holy Spirit continued to quicken his mortal body and sober him. Please pray for Paul's strength and total deliverance from dependence on these drugs. We're also praying for Trina who's hooked on crack-cocaine and has 7 children. We're praying for housing for Lilly, her 82 year old dad, and children.

God promises to supply all our need and we can ask anything and believer for this provision (Phil 4:19, John 14:14). Many in Baltimore are experiencing the gift of answered prayer. Many have received deliverance from drugs and provision for housing: all through prayer and the grace of God. Let us give God all the glory!

There's one more for whom we are praying: George is joyful, content, and excited. His I.D. is on the way and once he has that he can get housing. Two years ago, he lost his son and home in a fire. He's been homeless for two years now and is fully content and hopeful, trusting God to provide. George was too late for clothes and food, so we fed him, but he'll have to get fresh clothes later. The awesome thing about George is the glow in his eyes as he talks about Jesus and his journey with the Lord and the hope that he has since decided to trust Jesus.

I thank God for people like George, for Jaelyn, Johnnie, Mary and Marvin who truly appreciate Helping Hands and God's provision. (see pics on FB: Jaelyn and Johnny, two young children who prayed for Paul. What a blessing and testimony it will be to them to see him free! Amen.)

Holiday!

2009-12-17T08:57:00.002-05:00

Merry Christmas! Happy New Year! Happy Holidays!
Every day is a holy-day! Let us live every day -- holy unto the Lord! Amen.

Scotty, (Brian Scott, Raven York) will join us Saturday for an outreach in York where more than 1500 families have registered for this "celebration" event. The gospel message will be shared, toys and gifts will be distributed, and a meal, Bibles, and prayer available to those in desiring and knowing their need for Jesus. Please keep this event in prayer for souls!

Sunday, December 13, we joined Harvest Chapel and Helping Hands of York in a large homeless outreach and fed hundreds of needy people. Many received Christmas toys, coats, warm food and bagged lunches, a double portion, if they wanted. Those who received prayer and the gospel message felt the presence of God change their hearts and heal their pain. One guy, with whom we prayed received housing a few days later. Another lady who had a cast on her wrist felt her pain go away immediately. All praise and glory to God in Christ Jesus!

On Thanksgiving, I joined Scotty at Yorktowne House in York, an elderly home. We fed and ministered to a quite a few folks, mostly for those old aches and pains to go away, and some for healing. Several experienced the hand of God, the Comforter, touching them and providing healing and comfort in the name of Jesus! Glory to God!

One young girl was there who gave me a list of things that she wants for her baby shower. She's pregnant, smoking, and due in February. She had been living with her grandmother, but left to go back to an abusive boyfriend. Please pray for salvation, deliverance, and the healthy birth of this baby, in Jesus! Amen.

From Halloween to Thanksgiving, Janet and I had been in and out of the hospitals in Baltimore, praying for healing and salvation for many. Janet was suffering from a hernia and was healed. Please pray for her comfort during this holiday season, after the recent loss of her sister. Also, pray for my friend, Clara who lost her 45 year old daughter one night in September, her daughter, Karin, fell asleep and never woke. With the loving support of other Christians, Clara is staying strong and joyful, so we pray these people stay in fellowship, in Christ. Amen!

I'm remembering this: Jesus is the perfect gift!

NEW RAVEN GEAR!

2009-09-24T15:22:00.001-04:00

Orders are now being taken for the latest in RAVEN Gear!
The first to "fly" out...

The RAVEN Pendant

7/8" x 1-7/8" glass pendant / silver plated bail / 24" black ball chain

Pendants are made on demand and can be made TEAM SPECIFIC

$20.00 each // Part of the cost is going to help pay for Mardi Gras 2010

Please place your orders via PayPal here:include:
TEAM NAME / # of Pendants / Mailing Address

Pendants will be mailed as they are completed.
But, please be patient ... the process for completing the pendants is time consuming.

God Gives the Increase: Baltimore and York Outreach

2009-09-16T16:56:00.004-04:00

ALL GLORY TO GOD

How often Christ wanted to gather his sheep...but, “..blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord.” Matt 23:39

PLANTING and WATERING: GOD GIVES THE INCREASE:

1Co 3:6 I have planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.

I AM NOTHING: ALL GLORY TO GOD!
1Co 3:7 So then neither is he who plants anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase.

THEY ARE ONE!
1Co 3:8 So he planting, and he watering, are one, and each one shall receive his own reward according to his own labor.

We prayed for unity; we prayed for one mind, one body and one Spirit. With the mind of Christ, we walk in the Spirit with one purpose, a mission for God: souls.

John Harris of York went along to minister to Lionel on Tuesday. We took him information for Teen Challenge. Lionel wants free and can not see any reason hindering him, considering that so many have gone before him and been set free. John testified of a formerly homeless man whom Lionel knows, who had a 30 year addiction and is now free and blessed with a place to live and recovery. Please continue to pray for Lionel's freedom from alcoholism.

Just after the time spent with Lionel, his friend Chris, was near-by and received the Word of God and experience the power of the Holy Spirit. Having formerly known of a God, but not knowing or understanding Christ as Lord, we spent quite a bit of time with him. Yesterday, he experienced God's presence and influence on his heart as we prayed for him and revelation. He confessed and received Christ as Lord and Savior, and also healing for a wounded ankle. We're praying for God to keep Him in His clutches, that His faith has been made sure, as we know God can.

Afterward, we headed to downtown York Mall, the square at Market and George, to preach the Word. John felt led to read from the Word of God in Ezekial 34:

Woe to the shepherds of Israel who feed themselves! Should not the shepherds feed the flocks?
Eze 34:3 You eat the fat and clothe yourselves with the wool; you kill the fat ones, but you do not feed the flock.
Eze 34:4 You have not made the weak strong, nor have you healed the sick, nor have you bound up the broken. You have not brought again those driven away, nor have you sought that which was lost; but you have ruled them with force and with cruelty.

...Behold, I Myself will search for My sheep and seek them out.
Ezekial 34:12 As a shepherd seeks out his flock in the day that he is among his scattered sheep, so I will seek out My sheep and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day.
Eze 34:13 And I will bring them out from the peoples, and gather them from the lands, and will bring them to their own land and feed them on the mountain of Israel by the rivers, and in all the places of the land where people live.
Eze 34:14 I will feed them in a good pasture, and their fold shall be on the high mountains of Israel. There they shall lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture they shall feed on the mountains of Israel.
Eze 34:15 I will feed My flock, and I will cause them to lie down, says the Lord Jehovah.

Here, we prayed for the city and the pastors, we prayed for souls and Divine appointments, then met Eli (his nickname,) who stayed for almost two hours, frequently ranting about how he can do whatever he wants...and still be saved because He accepted Christ...years ago.

Still, he admits to “sometimes struggle with lust...hey, they're beautiful women,” he said. And he knows that he does not always “listen to God,” but he reads the Bible.

We showed him Revelations 3, how he has to be an overcomer, “let him who has an ear hear,” and 1John3:9, how, those who have come to the Lord do not make a practice of sinning, how those who love God obey His commands (1 John 2:5). We know the Word will go forth to do what it is purposed to do; the Truth will set Him free. John talked to him about the type of ground God's Word is falling on and if it will produce good fruit. So, we're praying that the Word of God will not go void in Eli's heart, but take root. Amen.

John's wife, Michelle, added this Word of encouragement:
“My brothers, count it all joy when you fall into different kinds of temptations,
knowing that the trying of your faith works patience.
But let patience have its perfect work, so that you may be perfect and entire, lacking nothing.”

Later, I went to Baltimore to work with Janet. She has an incredible praise report of what God is doing. While we were praying for freedom from cigarette addiction for a lady at the homeless outreach on Sunday, not only was the lady at Gilford Avenue set free, but also another lady for whom we've been praying, finally ripped up, crushed and destroyed her cigarettes! Sick of them, she's been free for three days. Several weeks ago, we had prayed for a job and home for Kathy and she is now employed! After the homeless outreach, we went to church in Essex for a good Word. Lots of people were set free there, as well! It is awesome to see the Glory of God and His power setting the captive free and healing the broken-hearted. Praise be and all glory to God in Christ Jesus, our Savior and Healer. Amen.

Crying Freedom in PA!

2009-09-14T16:31:00.000-04:00

SET THEM FREE, LORD!

This is our cry for freedom for those we've been meeting on the streets. Some confess to be “fences sitting,” for whom we encouraged to get off the fence, which belongs to the devil! Cross over to the other side!

Praise God, a young couple to whom we ministered in Westminster have been seeking the Lord and have been blessed by it. Leroy and Kris are a young couple with a baby. They've found a church and jobs. Praise the Lord! We're still praying for their own place to live, knowing God will provide.

Here are a few Scriptures that Gideon and I have felt compelled to share on the streets.

Seek first the kingdom of God and all His righteousness and all these thing will be added unto you (Matt 6:33).

re: Christ, the Word:
John 1:12 ...as many as received Him, He gave to them authority to become the children of God, to those who believe on His name.

Zechariah 4:6... Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, says Jehovah of Hosts.

Hebrews 3:8 Do not harden your heart as you did in the rebellion, when they tested me...

I had heard some bad news about some guys on Chestnut Street, so we prayed diligently all week for an opportunity to minister to them and for freedom for them. We see the progress. Lionel's been struggling with alcoholism for many years, but after several hours of ministry he's committed to getting detoxed and into rehab. So, we're praying for the mighty hand of God to strengthen him and deliver him. We know God can. Amen! Please keep praying for rehab for him.

On Maple Street, a young pregnant girl wants free from cigarettes. Another receives healing for a knee injury and we're praying for her grandmother with Alzheimer's, Esperanza. We're making good connections there with the Spanish-speaking community and hope to have help translating the Gospel message. Perhaps Luz (whose knee was healed) and Angel will join our team.

Here's the Maryland/PA schedule:

Tuesday: Baltimore Homeless outreach in Essex, MD w/ Compassion Ministries (5 p.m.-?)
(also: RAVEN Ministries, discipleship, on-line: www.ravenoutreach.blogspot.com)

Friday: Westminster, Main Street (w/No Walls Ministries) (8p.m.-?)
http://www.nowallsministries.net

Saturday: York, PA, meet at Glory House, 12:30 p.m.

Sunday: Baltimore, Gilford Street exit, Fallsway Bridge, 2-3:30 p.m.
RAVEN International Ministries, church, on-line 6.p.m. (www.ravenoutreach.blogspot.com)

Thank you for your prayers!
Php 1:3-5 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making my request for you all with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now...

Thy Kingdom Come

2009-09-03T09:54:00.006-04:00

The call of Christ, dying to one's self, daily, dying to the flesh, crucifying the flesh, this is not easy (Matt 16:24, Mark 8:34, Luke 9:23).

The call of Christ, to take up your OWN cross and carry it, is not easy. (Luke 14:27,) but with a heart like His all things are possible (Matt 19:26). Christ joyfully suffered for His beloved (the church--all those who accept Him as Lord and Savior (Isaiah 53:10)).

Living for others, altruistically, putting them first in your life is not easy, except in Christ in our hearts.(James 3:17).

Forsaking (putting aside and turning from) our own desires---is not easy, (Luke 14:25-33, re: Counting the Cost,") but for God's grace (His Divine influence on our hearts).

But, these things: forsaking it all for the call, carry our own cross and carrying one another's burdens, and putting other's needs before our own--to Christ, our Lord, it is beautiful.

Rom 10:15...As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace and bring glad tidings of good things!"

And it's not a burden.
1Jn 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments, and His commandments are not burdensome.

He commanded us, the last command before His death, is and was the command to go into all the world and preach the good news (Mark 16:15, Matt 28:19.)

Take hope in this Truth, brothers and sisters:

John 15:13 No one has greater love than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

Now I know, that I am loved because Christ laid down His life for me and many others have followed that example. Today, I am grateful for Mike and Rob for teaching me more about His perfect love, how to lay down my life, and His kindgom come. I am grateful for Janet, who has such a wonderful heart and burden for the lost, and because of her great love for Jesus. What a wonderful example of God's great love! Praise God for bringing Harry and Pam to church with their twins: Acelyn and Vince. Praise God for Charlie and Amara. We're praying for their marriage, God's provision and their new church. Mostly, I'm grateful to God for putting them in my path (our paths) to help make a difference--my heart is truly touched and changed (for the better. Amen?)

Please continue to pray for Baltimore and York: against Spiritual darkness and wickedness in high places. Lord, bring them out of depression, strengthen them to rise up and walk in righteousness, to throw off the old corrupt things and the ways of the world, for provision--jobs and homes for the homeless, and healing for the mentally ill. Make us a light to the nations and help us to show them Your perfect love that casts out all fear. In Christ, Amen.

Let us bask in His perfect love today and walk fearlessly forward, for the kingdom of heaven. Amen.

RAVEN in the Storm

2009-08-21T09:09:00.012-04:00

Tuesday night's homeless outreach in Baltimore was and has been incredible. There was lightning flashing in the sky, dark clouds hovering, and then a wonderful refreshing rain.

Jer 51:15 The LORD made the earth by His power, and He preserves it by His wisdom. With His own understanding He stretched out the heavens.
Jer 51:16 When He speaks in the thunder, the heavens are filled with water. He causes the clouds to rise over the earth. He sends the lightning with the rain and releases the wind from His storehouses.

Heb 6:7 For the earth which drinks in the rain that comes often upon it, and brings forth plants fit for those by whom it is dressed, receives blessing from God.

In Baltimore, Tuesday, not only did I see God's wonderful works in the sky, but also, the blessing from God in His servants and his children. I greatly enjoy, even love, watching Janet grow in the Lord. I am learning so much from her. She's a real blessing and a gift from God: She's diligent in her search for the Lord and diligent in her service to him and God has rewarded her tremendously. Tuesday night in Baltimore, Janet was in charge! Praise God!

It's so awesome to see what God has done with His beloved, those who serve him. I can not say it's easy enduring the difficulties that come with serving the Lord, but it is certainly rewarding. Memorial day weekend in Philadelphia started a "new thing" in working with Janet in the ministry and our soon to blossom friendship. Some of you may have seen the video from the streets of Phillie called "Yvonne" where Janet, Mike, and I were working with a few prostitutes hooked on heroine, trying to help bring them back to faith in Christ and into rehab.

Since that weekend, the Lord has really blessed our meetings, outreaches, and Biblical discussions and led us to a place of fellowship and unity. Some keys to the success were and are: a mutual respect for each other and a love of the Lord and His ways, and trusting God to continue the good work He began. We've been able to encourage each other in the Word. "Iron sharpens iron."

I've been able to share some Scriptures that I felt came from the Lord, during times of struggle. One great help is simply knowing that God is always by my side, fighting for me, like a mighty warrior (Jer 20:11).

Besides knowing that we're not alone in our struggle, we must know the hope, that there is ALWAYS a way of ESCAPE!

1Co 10:13 No temptation has taken you but what is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able, but with the temptation also will make a way to escape, so that you may be able to bear it.

When we fully rely on the Lord, he delivers us from every evil.

GOD PROMISES TO STRENGTHEN THOSE WHOSE HEARTS DESIRE TO BE FAITHFUL:
2Ch 16:9 The eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him.

How can there be condemnation when we desire to serve the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind and strength? It can not be when the focus is on Christ and not the things of the world.

Rom 8:1 So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.
Rom 8:2 And because you belong to Him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.

THE LAW CAN NOT SAVE US:
Rom 8:3 The law of Moses was unable to save us because of the weakness of our sinful nature. So God did what the law could not do. He sent His own Son in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in that body God declared an end to sin's control over us by giving His Son as a sacrifice for our sins.

FOLLOW THE HOLY SPIRIT:
Rom 8:4 He did this so that the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for us, who no longer follow our sinful nature but instead follow the Spirit.

In following the Holy Spirit we must FOCUS:
SET YOUR SIGHTS ON HEAVEN!
Col 3:1 Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God's right hand.
Col 3:2 Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth.

We must learn to deny ourselves, die to the flesh, and daily take up our cross (Matt 16:24).

Learning to daily crucify the flesh and walk in the Spirit is clearly imperative in a Christian's life. As we learn to abide in the Lord, we will not carry out the lust of the flesh. And, most importantly, we will bear much fruit.

Joh 15:4 Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it remains in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me.
Joh 15:5 I am the Vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, the same brings forth much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.

Of course, a tree intended to produce good fruit must be pruned (John 15). And this has been our prayer, for God to lop off any limb not of Him. Amen.

God is the the great pruner and His Word does the pruning. The Word goes forth and does not go void. It always does what it is purposed to do:

Isa 55:11 "It is the same with My word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it."

This was the youth lesson in Baltimore on Tuesday and the Word went forth. At the homeless outreach, many returned to the Lord and His ways. Many heard God's Word and received it with joy, others turned away. But, Kenny, who truly loves the Lord and desires to serve Him has been terribly deceived by the enemy, thinking he could continue to drink and still make it to heaven. Tuesday, Kenny, who has heard the Truth in the past, but it had fallen on hard, weedy ground, again received the Truth that will set Him free, and he received it with joy. He sobered up instantly.

Just a few months ago Kenny had been in rehab. After many years of drinking and homelessness, Janet and Charmain (Compassion Ministry, Baltimore)got Kenny into rebab, only for him to leave after 2 months of sobriety. He ended up back in the streets, drinking. Tuesday, Kenny heard the Truth, the Word of God, which clearly states that drunkards do not inherit the kingdom of heaven:

Gal 5:19-21 Now the works of the flesh are clearly revealed, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lustfulness, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, fightings, jealousies, angers, rivalries, divisions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkennesses, revelings, and things like these; of which I tell you before, as I also said before, that they who do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

Jesus' first sermon, after the temptation is this:
Mat 4:17...Repent! For the kingdom of Heaven is at hand.

Repent! For the kingdom of heaven is at hand We know that the Truth will set us free, free from sin, free indeed(John 8:32)! Anyone who sins is a slave to sin! But, as Christians, with God's Spirit and grace (God's Divine influence on our hearts and His reflection in our lives), we no longer have to sin! We are slaves to righteousness:

Joh 8:34 Jesus answered them, Truly, truly, I say to you, Whoever practices sin is the slave of sin.
Rom 6:18 Then being made free from sin, you became the slaves of righteousness.

The Lord promises to continue the good work He began (Phil 1:6) He is faithful (1 Corin 10:13, 1 John 1:9). Kenny's heart has been touched by the Holy Spirit and he has recommitted to sobriety and rehab. He knows God is watching, always beside him, and for him, not against him, and that God is able to keep him until the appointed time to bring him into the sheepfold (John 10). (Rehab is in two weeks.) Please pray for Kenny's strength to abstain until then) and pray for his friend Dennis, who is still out there, really beat up, looking as if near death.

Thank you Lord, for continuing the good work You began. In Christ, Amen.

Thanking God for RIPE FIELDS

2009-08-07T10:02:00.005-04:00

We're thanking Jehovah God for FIELDS: RIPE FOR PICKING!
and those who have gone before us.

In Westminster, on Main Street, there's a string of bars, but most therein and entering don't want to hear the Truth, nor the Gospel. They've heard the good news...but continue the party life.

In front of Raphael's Pub, a former student of mine runs for the door..."not now, Ms.D."

You know that shell station (Pastor Alex) where we can usually find some high, some drunk? A few other evangelist had just been there, sharing the Gospel...we prayed with a few and then headed up the street, just a block away to "Ernie's," a pool bar. There's a drunk guy sitting on the door step, mumbling and shaking his pool stick in my face, but Mike and Rob have been preaching on this street for awhile and Mike knows a little lady whose sitting on a doorstep nearby, so we go to say hi.

Right next door to her, I hear a guy talking about a girl who is proud of her whoring. So, I introduce myself and ask if I can share some Truth with them, he and his wife. I simply shared how our whole body becomes defiled when foul talk comes out of our mouths and it's the same as that girl whoring.

Mar 7:14 Then Jesus called to the crowd to come and hear. "All of you listen," He said, "and try to understand.
Mar 7:15 It's not what goes into your body that defiles you; you are defiled by what comes from your heart. "

Mar 7:20 And then He added, "It is what comes from inside that defiles you.
Mar 7:21 For from within, out of a person's heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder,
Mar 7:22 adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness.
Mar 7:23 All these vile things come from within; they are what defile you."

GOD HAD MADE THE FIELD READY...WE WERE THE FOURTH PEOPLE TO WITNESS TO HIM.
The guy was really open to talking to us, as he knew that God has been sending people to him. We were about the fourth (probably the 7th) in his path and he and his wife have been in great need of prayer and help.

We prayed for jobs. They need a vehicle. They have a baby...and need their own place (after living with his sister.) They're looking for a church, AND they're READY for the Lord---hungry for righteousness, and more of Jesus. We felt led to share James 4.

DRAW NEAR:
James 4:8 Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, sinners; and purify your hearts, double-minded ones.
9 Be afflicted, and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to heaviness.
10 Be humbled before the Lord, and He will lift you up.

We bowed down, humbly, and prayed. And we thank God:

Psa 30:5 For His anger is only a moment; in His favor is life. Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.

I shared testimony of how God rescued me and continues to rescue me as I call on Him. The Lord helps build our trust in Him, as we take leaps and small steps of faith. He's the author and perfecter of our faith. And he teaches us to walk humbly. He has taught me with this warning:

Rom 12:3 Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don't think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us.

Praise be to God, in Christ Jesus, who died to save us (John 3:16).

2Co 1:9 In fact, we expected to die. But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God, who raises the dead.
2Co 1:10 And He did rescue us from mortal danger, and He will rescue us again. We have placed our confidence in Him, and He will continue to rescue us.
2Co 1:11 And you are helping us by praying for us. Then many people will give thanks because God has graciously answered so many prayers for our safety.

God bless you saints. We will continue to pray for these others, some who have rejected the Truth about Jesus Christ and the Way: Jason, Jimmy, and Mike B. And we praise God, He will continue to the good work He began. We know, that His arm is not too short to reach all flesh (Phil 1:6, Is 59:1). In the mighty name of Jesus, we cry, Abba Father. Thank you. Amen!

2009-08-07T09:11:00.001-04:00

Which Jesus Do you Follow?

2009-07-07T11:49:00.003-04:00

Daytona Beach, Florida
It's Friday night in front of RAZZLE's night club.

There's a woman dressed in a black and white dress standing at the pole. She's trying to help (standing by) a young guy who is puking from an overdose of alcohol. The muscular guy next to her (with a cross around his neck) says to the puking drunk, "It's ok. I've done that plenty of times."

Little Troy had just prayed with the guy and put him in the Taxi, but the taxi driver made the young drunk get out of the van knowing that he'd soon be sick. I asked the lady in black and white if they would stay with the drunk and help him get home. She said, "Yeah--that's what you should be doing if you call yourselves Christians!"

First of all, patting this guy on the back and saying it's ok is NOT OK!! People die this way! Letting a drunk stay drunk is NOT OK! Let me say it again, it's NOT OK!

"Ma'am, I'm here to help them get sober, not help them stay drunk. People die this way, we watch them (rescue teams) take people out on stretchers--lots of them--in fact, there were at least 8 casualties(deaths)at Mardi Gras this year and many more who were carted to the emergency room on stretchers, night after night. It's not ok!"

Let all who call themselves Christians depart from iniquity (lawlessness, rebellion, sin)(2 Tim 2:19).
Let Christians everywhere imitate (mimic, model, follow)Christ (1 Corin 11:1).
Let all Christians everywhere avoid all appearance of evil (1Thess 5:22).
Come out from among them (out from those living and darkness and unbelief)(2 Corin 6:17).

Let all Christians be a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God. (Romans 12:1)
Amen!

Praise God--He will continue the good work He began! Praise God--His arm is not too short to reach all flesh! Praise God! (Phil 1:6, Luke 3:6, Luke 1:68, Luke 17:15, Hebrew 13:15, Revelation 19:5).

Still, I am crying out to God for these people: the gutter drunk-Ron Kitchen, the men in wheelchairs, George, the nicotine addicted: Vivian, (and many more,) the sexually immoral: Duane, Darrel,...and the complacent, rationalizing, pat-them-on the back, lukewarm church. Let the power of the Holy Spirit fall down, reign, deliver and set them free! In Christ Jesus, Amen!

HARVEST SEASON IN LIBERIA, WEST AFRICA

2009-06-11T06:57:00.004-04:00

IDLE IN THE MARKETPLACE:

Friday afternoon in at a local village in Capitol Hill, Monrovia, Liberia, West Africa, the Spirit of our Lord moved in a mighty way to change lives and heal the sick and broken-hearted. Being about 85% unemployment, it was easy to gather groups of people for whom to pray and minister the gospel. After ministering the Gospel message to several families and a large group of men, one man cried out to God for help and deliverance from alcohol and drugs. This man had been raised on a mission and knew the Word of God at one time, but had given his life over to the idols of drugs and alcohol. He was so bound that he could not get free on his own, and could not hear nor understand the Word of God sent to deliver him, but shortly after praying over his mind and praying for God (in the name of Jesus) to break the chains of those addictions, God answered our prayers and set him totally free. He was completely changed and sobered that very hour. Upon witnessing the power of God moving to change this man, many men in the village asked for salvation and prayer. Shortly thereafter, the newly freed man of God began sharing his testimony with other local men who had gathered at the village store and we were led to preach and pray again, so many more dedicated their lives, not only to God in repentance from sin, but also to serving in the ministry. Several men felt compelled to and committed their lives to serving God through evangelism and prayer.

Mat 20:6 And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing idle, and said to them, Why do you stand here all day idle?
Mat 20:7 They said to him, Because no one has hired us. He said to them, You also go into the vineyard, and you shall receive whatever is right.

The next day, Ester, for whom we had prayer the day before, came to the mission house to thank me. She had just lost her husband and had been sordidly grieved as a new widow. We prayed for God as her husband (Isaiah 54) to fill and meet her every need and to take away her depression. We prayed for her strength. Ester, upon visiting on Saturday, was beaming with the joy of the Lord. She was filled with His Spirit, had been made completely whole and new. Her need was satisfied, not by the things or people of this world, but by the Spirit of a holy and perfect God. To that, all I can say, is “Incredible! We must Praise God!”

Isa 54:5 For your Maker is your husband; Jehovah of Hosts is His name; and your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel; the God of the whole earth shall He be called.

Again, and later on Saturday, we had another visitor at the mission house who had heard us share the Gospel message in the neighborhood. Lee, stopped by to ask for prayer. He'd been abandoned by his parents and was raised by this grandmother. Plagued by bad dreams and headaches, he needed freedom. Upon praying, his headaches went away immediately.

Everyone who asked was healed, and if there was a sin, the repentant person was made well and strengthened. Even a rebellious and drunk muslim man came to Christ. He had been mocking and even spit on my hand, but the Holy Spirit said, “call him,” So, we called him over to minister to him. After experiencing the love and freedom of Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Ghost and the Word of Truth, the formerly Muslim man accepted Christ as Lord of his life and committed to following the ways of Christ.

Overall, it seems that the Holy Spirit bid us to “change their minds.” So, the majority of the ministry was spent, sharing the hope and the Word of Truth that sets us free, the main message being this one key command with a promise:

Mat 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you.

Many children and women were healed and willing to turn from sin to Christ.
I praise and thank God for ministry partners Pastor James Nahman and Evangelist Cargo from the Mercy Hands Foundation International (MHFI) in Liberia. And I thank my God for you, the praying devoted saints of Jesus Christ, who supported us in prayer. Thank you so much! I thank the women of RAVEN Ministries West Coast for the clothing and supplies for the babies and for your prayers. May God bless you all for your dedication, prayers, diligence, and service to Him and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I thank God in Christ Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit, my parents, and my friends for the financial support which provided food and water to many people and nearly a hundred children.

I pray God continue to bless, heal, and deliver Liberia, West Africa and all of Africa. We pray for the orphans, the sick and the lame. We pray for the government, soldiers, pastors, and leaders, and we thank God in Christ Jesus for the victory, for His provision, and for holiness, for truth and empowerment, in our land and all others. In Christ Jesus, Amen.

NOTHING is IMPOSSIBLE with GOD

2009-05-10T21:11:00.007-04:00

"Over the top!" Seeing Rich set free from all of his anger, bitterness, and debilitating pain was the high light of the day.

Rob and Laurie, from Uniontown Bible, took me along to Baltimore today where hundreds of homeless and needy people get fed every day. At 2:00, the mission is closed and people gather across the street, under the freeway (at Gilbert and Madison). And there's a great need for workers to minister the Gospel Truth.

Janet met us there and came over just after I'd pulled Rich away from the guy he was threatening to kill (a guy from a different gang). I told him about the love of Jesus, but being a gang member, he said--"impossible, there's no way out." After much prayer and ministering, he experienced the power of the Holy Spirit and the love of Jesus "wooing" him and setting him free. But later, that old anger came flaring up again, so he shared his story of deep hurts, abuse, loss, and struggles. Rich had had a taste of the goodness of God, and he wanted to get rid of that pain from unforgiveness and hurts so he could experience the freedom in Christ again; BUT, about forgiveness-he said "never. That will never happen."

Well, guess what?
NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD! (Luke 1:37)

2O MINUTES LATER:
Rich was set free. His countenance and his eyes were totally changed, a hard mean scowl changed to a tender grin and then a big smile. Suddenly, his arms, formerly closed and taunt, were open and then embracing.

All I know is that saints prayed, the Holy Spirit moved, and a life was changed.
There's nothing better than that.
And is wasn't me.
It was totally God,
and faith.

Mat 17:20 And Jesus said to them,... For truly I say to you, If you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you shall say to this mountain, Move from here to there. And it shall move. And nothing shall be impossible to you.

Let us keep praying and praising God!
And we pray that the Lord will keep and protect Rich.
We're also praying for others with needs for provision, jobs, and housing.
Thank you Lord!

Standing in Awe

2009-05-05T11:23:00.002-04:00

I'm standing in awe of Him
of His majesty
and His wonderful works

How He puts someone in my path with just what I need, and I had prayed for someone in my path that I could help and in helping them, He helps me.

I'm standing in awe of Him
of His majesty
of His wonderful works
as He shows me His love
and endurance
to stand
through tough times
and it's easy to stand
because He said it's easy
"Take my yoke
My burden is light."

I'm standing in awe of Him
of His wonderful works
how He takes His children
from Glory to Glory

Thank you Lord
for the souls saved in Harrisburg this weekend
Thank you Lord
for healing the sick
thank you Lord for your provision
and for vision
to see
all the beautiful people of your churches
all the different churches
and how each one has its gift and purpose
each one a blessing to me
and it's not about me
but You did it anyway,
died
for me
and them
for everyone
so we can live
life, more abundantly
I'm talking rich---spiritually rich

Thank you Lord
that I don't have to be critical anymore, but have found mercy in time of need
that I may give mercy, abundantly

Thank you Lord
for setting me free
to be me
filled with you
so that I can love again
more like You
and less of me.

Thank you Lord
for showing me
that you care.
I love you Lord.
Amen.

GREAT LOVE IN BALTIMORE!!

2009-04-28T10:05:00.001-04:00

It's wonderful to see God's people doing exactly what He told them to do.
In Essex, MD (near Baltimore) Friday night Janet Wood and other church members had gone to the streets of their neighborhoods to gather whoever would come, not only for a meal, but also to worship the Lord.

ARE YOU WORTHY TO JOIN IN THE WEDDING FEAST?
This reminds me Jesus' parable about the wedding invitation. Many have been invited, but would not come. Many are busy with their business. Others actually killed the servants! (So, the King destroyed them Matt 22:7). I can't understand why they would not want to come to this great feast!

Mat 22:2 The kingdom of Heaven is like a certain king who made a marriage for his son.
Mat 22:3 And he sent out his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding; and they would not come.
Mat 22:4 Again he sent out other servants, saying, Tell those who are invited, Behold, I have prepared my dinner; my oxen and fatlings are killed, and all things are ready. Come to the marriage.
Mat 22:5 But not caring, they went their ways, one to his field, another to his trading.
Mat 22:6 And the rest took his servants and treated them spitefully, and killed them.
Mat 22:7 But when the king heard, he was angry. And he sent out his armies and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city.
Mat 22:8 Then he said to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they who were invited were not worthy.
Mat 22:9 Therefore go into the exits of the highways, and as many as you shall find, invite them to the marriage.
Mat 22:10 So the servants went out into the highways and gathered together as many as they found, both bad and good. And the wedding was filled with reclining guests.

Make no mistake ---when you read on in this chapter, you will see that God does separate the good and the bad. The guest who is not in “proper clothing” at this feast, will be cast out of the wedding party and into the outer darkness where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth (vs 11-14). Proper clothing means we must be sanctified and holy when we stand before God on judgment day.

Revelation 3:5 The one who overcomes, this one will be clothed in white clothing. And I will not blot out his name out of the Book of Life, but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.

Obviously, since the one who overcomes will not have his name blotted out in the Book of Life, the one who does not overcome WILL BE BLOTTED OUT!
THIS IS TRULY POOR! We must equip these people to overcome. They must hear the Truth of the Word of God.

But “Praise the Lord!”
There are still a few in Baltimore who are dedicated to reaching the lost and discipling the least of these.

Pastor Sharon Wamsley, frequently shouts “Praise the Lord!” in worship, pumping up the workers, as the youth and servants prepare lunches for homeless outreach, “Are you ready to share the love of Jesus?! Are you ready to praise the Lord?!”

Her husband, Pastor Louis Wamsley, leads us out in prayer and verse:

Mat 25:35 For I was hungry, and you gave me food; I was thirsty, and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger, and you took Me in;
Mat 25:36 I was naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.
Mat 25:37 Then the righteous shall answer Him, saying, Lord, when did we see You hungry, and fed You? Or thirsty, and gave You drink?
Mat 25:38 When did we see You a stranger, and took You in? Or naked, and clothed You?
Mat 25:39 Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and came to You?
Mat 25:40 And the King shall answer and say to them, Truly I say to you, Inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brothers, you have done it to Me.

We take two vans of workers into the city. When we arrive at the end of the Jones Falls Expressway, there are about a hundred people sitting on the steps of an old catholic church. We have eighty packed lunches. Two people who asked for prayer are healed: Gina and Maurice. Four others have dedicated their lives to Christ. One, who gave his life to Jesus, Rudolph, (red shirt) joined us in Word and prayer for Maurice's healing. We're still praying and believing for Aaron and Hakim to come to the Lord.

At revival services the Lord moves mightily in signs and wonders. The Word from Mark 4 encourages us to cross over to the other side, noting that Jesus slept during the storm, but when He got up, he rebuked the fearful disciples, “Peace! Be still!” “Why are you so fearful?!”

Finally, Pastor Tim emphasized the truth about real worship and true service to God:
“WE DON'T NEED ANY MORE PIMPING PREACHERS!”

“WHEN'S THE LAST TIME YOU STEPPED OUT OF THE THOSE FOUR WALLS TO WIN A SOUL?”

Mat 25:40 And the King shall answer and say to them, Truly I say to you, In as much as you did it to one of the least of these My brothers, you have done it to Me.

Plans, Prayer, and Petitions

2009-04-18T11:36:00.002-04:00

JUST A REMINDER
(for myself and anyone else who may need it)

Php 4:6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.

Praise be to God through the power of the Holy Spirit, who speaks this into our hearts, the perfect Word, at just the right time. Praise be to Him, who has given us the peace that passes all understanding and every spiritual blessing in Christ Jesus. Praise God, in Christ who promises to provide all our need.

Php 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
Amen

The Least of These

2009-04-16T12:38:00.003-04:00

Luk 7:45 You didn't greet Me with a kiss, but from the time I first came in, she has not stopped kissing My feet.
Luk 7:46 You neglected the courtesy of olive oil to anoint My head, but she has anointed My feet with rare perfume.
Luk 7:47 "I tell you, her sins—and they are many—have been forgiven, so she has shown Me much love. But a person who is forgiven little shows only little love."
Luk 7:48 Then Jesus said to the woman, "Your sins are forgiven."
Luk 7:49 The men at the table said among themselves, "Who is this man, that He goes around forgiving sins?"
Luk 7:50 And Jesus said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace."

Dear Friends,

I have great news! Some of you know that I attended a Worldwide Compassion Conference last weekend. I heard the call to Africa several years ago, but have been busy with work and ministry in America. This past weekend I was invited to be keynote speaker and minister at a women's conference in Liberia, West Africa next month. It is the 3rd Annual Destiny Women's Conference. I will praying for and ministering to women from all over Africa on the topic of "Women in Charge, Making a Difference." I will need to raise about $3K for airfare and $500 for medical shots. Tomorrow, I have an appointment to start getting the immunization shots and need $355 to get started. They won't accept credit cards, so I need to bring cash or check (by tomorrow at 11 am.) If any of you can help, please click on www.ravendonna.blogspot.com and click on the donation box in the right column. You must note the purpose: Donna's Conference, Africa. Thank you so much for your help!

It's quite an honor to have been invited to minister in this capacity. I am still in awe of it and the great and mighty things that God is doing in our lives! People, we serve a God who still heals His people-- Who miraculously heals! He's the same yesterday, today, and forever. My prayer is for healing and empowerment for these women and children. I pray that you have a heart of compassion for the lost and hurting and that we would all give abundantly, as the Lord blesses and provides. Freely we give for freely we've been given much.

Luk 7:47 "I tell you, her sins—and they are many—have been forgiven, so she has shown Me much love. But a person who is forgiven little shows only little love."

May God bless you all, richly, in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,

Reverend Donna Dickmyer
In His Service

P.S An album of photos from the Philadelphia conference (last weekend) is on my Facebook. I did not take photos of the sick and dying, but I'm sure that you know that HIV is rampant in Africa and there is a great need for healing. Please don't turn your back on these people. Here is the ministry website of Bishop Emmanuel Jones, with whom I will be partnering for this event in Liberia:
www.Mastershomeofchampions.org

RELIGION!

2009-03-24T06:47:00.004-04:00

Religion or relationship?

Little did I know what God had in store for me this past weekend.
You know how we all like to have a schedule, a plan, ...structure in our lives? And with jobs, families, and churches these things are necessary, but ultimately there comes a time when we must learn to fully surrender to God's will and God's plan-daily. And that's how many of us learned to pray, as Christ taught us to pray:
"Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven."
or by His Words in the garden at Gethsemane, "...yet, not my will but thine be done."
And daily, to seek first His will, His kingdom, and His righteousness (Matt 6:33) with the promise and hope, that all "these things (our needs) will be added unto us."

But, I didn't hear from the Lord this weekend about whether to go to the homeless outreach or see some friends from out of town. ( Jas 1:27 Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.)

A friend from high school was in town and wanted to get together with some other friends. I hesitated, but ended up at the game with friends from high school. So, whether it's at a Lacrosse game, Mardi Gras, or an Airport, I'm gonna serve the Lord! But, I didn't stand at the gate handing out tracks and; I didn't preach the gospel. I didn't lay hands on the sick, but I did rebuke Jack for listening to AC/DC!! (And I am disgusted that he's interested in and talking about beer when he's in Middle School!) (And most of us were once this way!!!!)

I went hoping and praying for one lost person to come to know Jesus--a friend who is headed for Iraq, again. And this was and is my prayer:
Since we don't know the day or the hour when Christ will return for us, and since we are not promised tomorrow, I pray that we will ALL be ready for Him, that we KNOW we are saved, and then walk it out daily.

After three days of prayer and reflection, ( walking and talking with Jesus) I've found that I truly do not want the things of this world. Christ fills my heart to overflow and meets all my needs. What was promised has been fulfilled: I do not want. (Just as promised in Psalm 23:1 the Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.) I surrender! His love is so good! How can I resist?! This is the revelation that the Lord has given me today:

I am a friend of God.

Rom 5:11 So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.

It's not about sitting in a pew every Sunday. It's not about standing on a street corner and preaching. It's not about visiting nursing homes or hospitals or even feeding the poor. These things are good and necessary, but without love it's just going through the motions. Christ is love and that love fills our hearts, daily, if we let Him. I pray that we let nothing take the place of that intimacy with Him. I pray that you seek Him and His Truth, and find the fullness that fills your heart to overflow, the joy and peace that passes understanding. I pray you really KNOW HIM and His great love for you! Praise God for a wonderful love relationship with Him that's more awesome than we can comprehend.
Thank God for dying for us--while we were yet sinners.
Just praise God and say thank you.

STILL...

2009-03-10T09:51:00.003-04:00

After two weeks of raging storms (spiritual), the Lord has brought wonders of wonderful glories.

A couple living in domestic violence seek God and Christian fellowship:
Gideon and Dennis and I went to York, PA last week and ministered to a back-slidden lady and her live-in who claims to have been Muslim. He knows he needs the peace that he had when he was practicing his faith. We were able to share the One True peace with him and his girlfriend, Christ: the peace that passes understanding (Phil 4:7). We also ministered to his son, who wants to run away. Gideon and Dennis went back this week and Kareem is ready to come to the Lord and to church. They also ministered to the son and father encouraging them toward a healthier, God-centered relationship.

Dennis reports: "Man, the Holy Spirit moved powerfully! It was awesome!"

The day before we were at Allison Hill, Harrisburg, PA. A lady full 0f faith confessed that God will continue to deliver her and heal her. As we prayed for her knees to be replaced, all pain went away and she started dancing in the streets!

Also, that day, we met a fellow, I'll call him Ole'. He had been raised in a crack house since he was 12 years old and just wasn't ready to meet Christ, but knew that God put us in His path, so he listened; we talked, discussed faith and the hope in Christ. Eventually, he allowed us to pray for the Lord to heal his hurts and change his heart and mind. Folks, this neglected young man had been a crack dealer, but that day, God turned his life around and he committed to attend Bible study and prayer. He asked God to change him, and you can be sure that He will.

Joh 11:22 But I know that even now, whatever You will ask of God, God will give You.
(This passage is to Martha, Christ encouraging her in the loss of her brother, Lazarus, who will be raised from the dead).

The Glory goes to God, who still lives, by the power of the Holy Ghost, and promises this:
Joh 14:12 "I tell you the truth, anyone who believes in Me will do the same works I have done, and even greater works, because I am going to be with the Father.
Joh 14:13 You can ask for anything in My name, and I will do it, so that the Son can bring glory to the Father.
Joh 14:14 Yes, ask Me for anything in My name, and I will do it!
Joh 14:15 "If you love Me, obey My commandments.

And this is the last command before Christ left this earth to prepare a place for us in heaven:
Mar 16:15 And then He told them, "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.
Mar 16:16 Anyone who believes and is baptized will be saved. But anyone who refuses to believe will be condemned.
Mar 16:17 These miraculous signs will accompany those who believe...

BLESSED BELIEVERS:
Joh 20:29 Then Jesus told him, "You believe because you have seen Me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing Me."

And now, despite the storm, I am still because God is with us.

Psa 46:7 Jehovah of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.
Psa 46:8 Come, behold the works of Jehovah, who makes ruins on the earth;
Psa 46:9 who makes wars to cease to the ends of the earth; He breaks the bow, and cuts the spear in two; He burns the chariots in the fire.
Psa 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God! I will be praised among the nations, I will be praised in the earth.
Psa 46:11 Jehovah of Hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.
Amen

Donna D--living it out, by the grace of God
who loved us:
Rom 5:8 But God showed His great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.

GETting REAL, cause reality is CHRIST, and CHRIST CRUCIFIED.

GREAT LOVE ALMIGHTY! (ravens!!) (to the tune of "great leaping batfire-bat-man! robin)

Still Standing

2009-03-06T07:25:00.003-05:00

Still sitting...
Still lying with my face on the floor, like a dead man.

PT said, "Stand on any street corner; sit in any church...any school...too ashamed to die."

So, I did. I stood there and prayed in front of the movie theater at Hunt Valley, loaded with kids. In the corner was a group of youth, one with a spiked mohawk, who entertained his friends by sticking a white rat in his mouth, as if to eat it. After awhile of praying, I found that he was standing next to me, so we chatted and I asked him about Jesus. But, he's a satanist who "doesn't worship satan." I explained that Christ died for him and that Jesus is the only way into heaven, but with out Christ we're damned to eternal hell and he walked away, actually, it seemed as if he flew.

I went home very sad that most likely the church kids avoid this crowd, are too busy with their Bible studies, electronic games, and coffee houses--that many really don't care, are too afraid, or are taught to avoid them. And, I'm wondering where are the Meghans, Ceces, Maddies, and Destinys?

After much prayer, I'm encouraged that God will continue the good work He began, that His arm is not too short to reach all flesh, and that I must continue, faithfully and full of faith--expressing the love, the Gospel truth, and the way.

The next evening, I stood on a corner in Gettyburg (in front of a pub). It was cold so I started shadow boxing as I prayed. A guy came out of the bar and called me over to talk:
"He-sus!" (He called me, because the sweatshirt says "Jesus.")
He had a lot of questions. As a firefighter, he's seen a lot of tragedy and he's bitter, hurt, angry...so he drinks to self-medicate, and he knows it's wrong, but doesn't think that he will ever change, that that will ever change about him, or that Christ can heal him. I was able to pray with him about it, believing and knowing that God can change him and his heart.

I thank God for a heart of compassion. I thank God for the gift of mercy, to cry out for the lost. I thank God for the boldness to move ahead confident, in Him who died for us.

Last night, the Holy Spirit kept speaking into me: "I died for you."
I said, "I know."
And today, the reflection is this:
So, what does that mean to me?

And for you, believers, what does that mean to you?

During this season called "Passover," many church goers will give up something for lent. I've been thinking about "Lent." For years, I would practice this ritual of giving up something that I really enjoy, but for what purpose? Did I give to the poor? Did I help the needy? Did I share the good news? Or did I just go through the motions?

This season, let this song hold true for believers everywhere:
"I don't wanna go through the motions."

I don't wanna just go through the motions of saying I'm a Christian with out a heart of compassion and love for the lost, and with out doing something about it. How about you?

Blessings to you who do (this), Saints and believers.

ABOUT MARDI GRAS: the last night.

Our last night on the streets, we go out with the hopes of bringing in "just one more," (to the kingdom of God--for salvation--souls.) There were two significant people to whom I was blessed to have met. One, is a guy who is looking at doing time for life. He plans to go to jail soon and sees no way out--forever. Wow. I had just heard several testimonies of people who had not been punished to the full extent of the law, whose sentence had been cut short. One had actually been bailed out. Another, the court lost the paper work; I've met several people to whom this has happened.
Testimonies of such led me to the Lord before I knew Christ. So, I shared that hope with this guy.

The scary part: this guy confessed that he had a gun on his bike and a knife in his pocket and was ready to take some people with him if anyone messed with him that night. Of course, I asked him if that meant me too? I didn't feel threatened by him. Still, I kept looking for back-up help. One guy who had been reading his Bible on the corner, I thought he was my back up, but he was gone when I looked for him. I waved to a few others to help, but they turned away as if not to see me motioning to come over. So, I just had to trust God, that I'm covered and that no harm would come to me. I had a great peace about it.

Suddenly, a naked woman, painted with flowers, was next to me on that corner and a crowd surrounded us. The men were gawking at her chest. Cameras were flashing. There was an old guy who I'd tried to talk to every night. He always walked away, wouldn't listen. That night, there he was, captive--wide-eyed with camera in hand, grinning at the naked painted woman. I asked him if he knew that he was a pervert. Maybe, this time, the truth sunk in.

The awesome thing: I got to talk to the girl,
Naked and unashamed,
and tell her about the love of Jesus.
I don't remember her name.
But, I think she understands,
that she doesn't have to that anymore--be exploited like that--that she's precious to Him-a real treasure.

What a blessing-to talk to her
And I know that God will continue the good work He began.
Amen?
Amen.

Beloved

2009-02-17T06:55:00.007-05:00

God the Father blessed His Son:

Mat 3:16 And Jesus, when He had been baptized, went up immediately out of the water. And lo, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting upon Him.
Mat 3:17 And lo, a voice from Heaven, saying, This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

God, the Father, calls His Son, God, and appoints the Son as ruler over all:

Heb 1:8 But to the Son He says, "Your throne, O God, is forever and ever. A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom.
Heb 1:9 You have loved righteousness and hated iniquity, therefore God, Your God, has anointed You with the oil of gladness above Your fellows."

Blessed be the Name of our Lord, above all powers. Amen

God, the Source of Hope

2009-02-16T12:25:00.002-05:00

OVERFLOW:

Rom 15:13 I pray that God,
the source of hope,
will fill you
COMPLETELY
with joy
and peace
because you trust in Him.
Then you will overflow
with confident hope
through the power of the Holy Spirit.
(NLT)

In Christ Jesus,
Our Lord and Savior,
Amen.

Praise Report in PA!

2009-02-15T16:15:00.004-05:00

HalleluYah!

God is so good! It's difficult to see sometimes when we struggle, but faith comes by hearing and my pastor told me--God is good--and I faithfully responded:
ALL THE TIME! Amen.

Thank you saints for this time of dedication, prayer and fasting. You KNOW it is worth it because the harvest is coming in!!

ONE MORE FOR THE KINGDOM!

Saturday, on the corner of Pine and Walnut, in York, Riccardo rushed out to thank us. He'd just gotten back from 7 days of rehab. Praise God, saints--and ALL GLORY TO CHRIST-OUR LORD and SAVIOR. We have a believer who asked and received. He stood confident that day when he made his prayer request. He heard the Word, received it, and it took root. There was and is suffering in this task, but now, we know--- God will continue the good work he began and continue to strengthen this man, heal his wounds and relationships. Please pray for Riccardo and his family.

We're praying for Edward William, Jr, also, but (I promised I would not blog about his testimony) --and we're praying for the kids.

Be Blessed.

Again, much thanks to you, my friends in Christ!
see you soon,
Donna

The Thief

2009-02-13T09:26:00.002-05:00

Third Day:

I've been reflecting and marveling at the bold blatant honesty of Third Day's lead singer. He must have been able to relate to this guy on the other cross, who knew his shame and confessed, "Lord remember me."

The thief who called on the name of the Lord and confessed while being persecuted was welcomed into the kingdom that day. What a beautiful Savior we have. What a wonderful God---to send His Son, and what a wonderful Name--Jesus. He laid down His life for me. I can't get over it!

I must boast in His power, just a bit, for His glory--the power of Christ to save:

He set this young man, Dennis free from heroine and now Dennis is street preaching. On Saturday, he knocked on the door of a house where he used to get high, and told them there's a better way. Yes, Amen! What joy there is in Truth! He's free---he never has to be bound to that addiction, again. Never going back!!

Amen--never going back. Let's move forward, Saints.

I love you for your love.
I love you for your prayers!

I love you for your endurance and faith.

I love you b/c you love Jesus
....and the lost.

God bless you
and Happy Valentine's day.

Your sis in Christ,
Donna

GRACE IN YORK

2009-02-01T15:13:00.005-05:00

THEREFORE--REPENT! TURN TO GOD AND BE SAVED--convert so that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. (Acts 3:19)

Grace, Gideon and Dennis on Pine and Walnut

PREACHING REPENTANCE:
Mar 6:12 And they went out and proclaimed that men should repent.

GOD IS COMING BACK FOR A HOLY PERSON-
Eph 5:27

AGREED:
YES, AMEN!

PREACHING TO DION
AND PRAYING FOR STRENGTH FROM THE LORD

WE WERE PRAYING FOR RAMOS when this guy, Ed (bottom rt pic), steps in to pray with us, but he really wanted to give "us some of what he has"--it is NOT JESUS!
OBSCENITIES AND FOUL LANGUAGE FLOW FREELY FROM HIS MOUTH...with NO RESPECT...HE CONTINUED TO TELL US THAT HE'S SAVED WHETHER HE DRINKS AND CUSSES

GRACE IS 10
AND SERVING
THE LORD!

"CHRISTIANS?"
AT THE LIQUOR STORE!

IT'S WHAT COME OUT OF A MAN'S MOUTH THAT DEFILES HIM-
OUT OF THE OVERFLOW OF THE HEART SPEAKS THE MOUTH.

Pro 27:9 The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense.

EXCUSES? JUDGMENT:
Rom 2:13 For it is not the hearers of the Law who are just before God, but the doers of the Law will be justified.

ABSTAIN FROM STRONG DRINK:
Num 6:3 he is to abstain from wine and other intoxicating liquor, he is not to drink vinegar from either source, he is not to drink grape juice, and he is not to eat grapes or raisins.

Heb 10:26 Dear friends, if we deliberately continue sinning after we have received knowledge of the truth, there is no longer any sacrifice that will cover these sins.
Heb 10:27 There is only the terrible expectation of God's judgment and the raging fire that will consume His enemies.
Heb 10:28 For anyone who refused to obey the law of Moses was put to death without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses.
Heb 10:29 Just think how much worse the punishment will be for those who have trampled on the Son of God, and have treated the blood of the covenant, which made us holy, as if it were common and unholy, and have insulted and disdained the Holy Spirit who brings God's mercy to us.

Mar 7:20 "It is what comes out of a person," he went on, "that makes him unclean.

Mar 7:21 For from within, out of a person's heart, come forth wicked thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery,
Mar 7:22 greed, malice, deceit, indecency, envy, slander, arrogance, foolishness....
Mar 7:23 All these wicked things come from within, and they make a person unclean."

WAL-KING AWAY:

RIGHT ON TIME

2009-01-26T11:46:00.011-05:00

Ravens: Dennis, Donna, and Gideon went to Pine and Walnut in York on Saturday. I had coats that Amy had collected for me from the Nail Spa (Amy's Nails) and the guys in this neighborhood were so grateful to get warm coats after wearing thin jackets in 10-30 degree temperature.

THE GOOD WORK IS NOT IN VAIN:

2Co 6:1 But working together, we also call on you not to receive the grace of God in vain.
2Co 6:2 (For He says, "In an acceptable time I heard you, and in a day of salvation, I helped you;" Behold, now is the accepted time. Behold, now is the day of salvation.)

At the exact time that Gideon and Dennis pulled up, two other fellows, Giovanni and Riccardo showed up. I asked Riccardo if he's living for the Lord and he said, no, but I want to. Both of these guys asked for deliverance from heroin addiction and right relationship with the Lord. Riccardo already looked straight and was standing firm in faith that God can and will set him free, so we prayed-- for God's righteousness in his life. He judges not by what he sees and hears, but with faithfulness toward the meek:

Isa 11:3 And He is made to breathe in the fear of Jehovah. And He shall not judge according to the sight of His eyes, nor decide by the hearing of His ears.
Isa 11:4 But with righteousness He shall judge the poor, and shall decide with uprightness for the meek of the earth. And He shall strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, and with the breath of His lips He shall slay the wicked.
Isa 11:5 And righteousness shall be the girdle of His loins, and faithfulness the girdle of His heart.

The Holy Spirit was moving mightily on behalf of these fellows and Giovanni was broken, weeping for quite a time as we prayed the Word and deliverance over him. His wife, Arlena, stood behind him as we prayed. She, as well, desires to live more righteous. She is humble and quiet, and prayerful.

We took a time to warm up at the nearby "Stadium Bar and Grill." The owner claims to be saved and smiles as six-packs a cases are sold to the people of the neighborhood. He said he knows he will stand before God and be judged for his works. I followed a lady carting her 12-pack out the door and asked her about salvation. She's "Unitarian" and didn't want to talk about Jesus. She rolled her cart away quickly. But, many addicts drove up, guys with whom Dennis formerly got high. They were amazed at the change in his life with Christ and were given the opportunity to turn around. Many want the freedom that he has, but lack the faith.

The kids on Walnut Street, sporting liberty hats, helped us pray. They had received Christ by faith (Gal 3). The tax company had workers on the streets with foam liberty hats such as the statue of liberty wears and one fellow shared some of his hats. He also received the Truth, that the Word is what will cleanse and sanctify him. So, all they know is that real freedom is in Christ, the Word of life.

Freddie (pic below), from Maple street just started going to church again. He admits that he needs more of the Word for his daily bread. We're praying for his walk with the Lord--that with diligence he will draw near to God, rise up, and and serve.

Later, as we ate and shared the Word, Dennis testified, again, how good God is, how recently, since he gave his life to Christ, the Lord had blessed him with his favorite meal. I say, Amen and this is the meal we had on the streets and corners of York:

Divine Food--the Bread of Heaven
Food with out Cost (Is 55:1)
Food that Satisfies:

Joh 6:27 Do not labor for the food that perishes, but for that food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you. For God the Father sealed Him.
Joh 6:28 Then they said to Him, What shall we do that we might work the works of God?
Joh 6:29 Jesus answered and said to them, This is the work of God, that you believe on Him whom He has sent.
Joh 6:30 Therefore they said to Him, What sign do you show then, so that we may see and believe you? What do you work?
Joh 6:31 Our fathers ate the manna in the desert, as it is written, "He gave them bread from Heaven to eat."
Joh 6:32 Then Jesus said to them, Truly, truly, I say to you, Moses did not give you that bread from Heaven, but My Father gives you the true bread from Heaven.
Joh 6:33 For the bread of God is He who comes down from Heaven and gives life to the world.

"I AM" IS THE BREAD OF LIFE (John 6:34)
and we, His workers, eat of it--and are satisfied.
I say, "NEITHER SHALL THEY HUNGER NO MORE-NOR SHALL THEY THIRST" (Rev 7:16) Amen.

Ask--Do NOT Doubt!

2009-01-11T18:52:00.003-05:00

Gideon, Dennis, and I went to Melrose and Manchester, MD with some bread, the Bread of life, and some clothes. Dennis is new to the team, and a great blessing! These guys endured several hours in chilly, icy conditions...

We prayed with Ashley who is about 20 and lives with her dad and his Jewish girlfriend. Her dad received some nice work shirts that had been donated to the ministry. Ashley's trusting God to help her walk out her faith and righteousness.

At the next house we had to dust our feet off--but were glad to find a believing neighbor and pray with her for her neighborhood.

JR didn't really care about Jesus or salvation until he heard the Truth and the Good News. Dennis testified to the goodness of God and JR opened up to at least asking God to reveal Himself. We experienced a move of God there-like a mighty rushing wind.

In Manchester, Mike said he's definitely a Christian and then slid his "forty" around his back. He had lots of questions about the Word. The enemy has been planting seed of doubt. The main questions were: What about the other religions and how do we know that Christianity is the only way? He was also concerned about accuracy in translations and interpretations of the Bible and how do we know it's true?

But, Mike has seen other believers experience joy and freedom in the Lord and confessed that he desires that. So, we were able to encourage him that the Holy Spirit is available to him, just like anyone else.

We talked about the fact that all men will one day stand before a Holy God and be judged for their works, good and bad while here on earth, that all Word is God breathed, God inspired (2Tim 3:16), and that every knee will bow and confess Christ is Lord (Phil 2:10, 11), and how faith produces good works (James 2:17)--righteousness.

He knew that he needs to quit drinking because of alcoholism in his family, but--other stuff--he never thought about. He's been "trying" to change on his own will power, but we were able to encourage him that with Christ, he doesn't have to do it alone, that God, through the power of the Holy Spirit can deliver him and strengthen him. (It was like explaining several of Pastor Sam's sermons all at once:)

Finally, we invited him to come out of the cold and across the street to a restaurant where we could answer other questions. He put down his beer, and joined us, despite an angry girlfriend. It's really the presence of the Lord and the power of the Holy Spirit that drew him and kept him there, desiring to bask in God's presence.

Dennis testified to the goodness of God (like a new wow everyday, better than Disneyworld!) and shared this Word about Mike's concerns:

Jas 1:5 But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and with no reproach, and it shall be given to him.
Jas 1:6 But let him ask in faith, doubting nothing. For he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, driven by the wind and tossed.
Jas 1:7 For do not let that man think that he shall receive anything from the Lord;
Jas 1:8 he is a double-minded man, not dependable in all his ways.

Simply put, Mike knows he needs to stand firm in the Truth--the Word-or he won't receive anything.

We prayed with him that the Word he received will manifest and keep him. Amen.
We praise the Lord for a wonderful afternoon in His glory and for safe travels to and fro.

Praise Report!

2009-01-03T23:09:00.007-05:00

Praise report! This guy, Dennis, was out on Maple Street last year and Pastor Sam and Lucy ministered to him. He was at an outreach in Harrisburg, PA, today (Saturday)--saved and recovered--praising God, testifying, and very grateful to Pastor Sam and Lucy for sharing the Word (of Deliverance) and the Truth with him. He testified to this team that RAVENs ministered; he prayed, searched, and found Glory House (recovery home) where he got his life straight.

Glory House is next door to where Gideon lived , so they met and he came along to testify today. Once again, he said, he's so grateful to ministries like ours for going out into the streets b/c it saved him! He says, Keep up the good work!

We were at Allison Hill, a neighborhood on 13th Street. Many people asked up for prayer for their neighborhood. Some people got hot dogs, hot cocoa, and prayer; others received warm clothing, a new coat, and the Word.

A man pulls across the street and gets out cussing. He had forgotten his wallet and wanted a hot dog. Scott (from Harrisburg) called out from across the street to tell him it's free! He hesitates, but comes over anyway. So, I asked him about his relationship with the Lord and if he reads his Bible, "Oh Yeah! It's this big." (He motions how big with his hands.) And I asked, "Ok, but do you read it?" "Of course!" "Hey lady, I just wanted a hot dog. I gotta go back to work."

"Just trying to share the love of Jesus," said Scott.

There was no peace in that house (person). Here's the lesson in that:

Upon greeting:
Mat 10:13 And if the house is worthy, let your peace come on it. But if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you.
Mat 10:14 And whoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when you depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.
Mat 10:15 Truly I say to you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city.

Others we met said we could pray for them, but not with them. One lady knows what to do, but she's not ready and it would take too long to explain all of the stuff that's holding her back.
Another fellow, knows the Koran (practices Islam) and knows to follow Christ. He understands that Christ is the only name under heaven by which he can be saved, but he's very concerned about hypocrites in the church (in any "religion"). Having recently gotten free from jail-he's only been out of jail since October- he also is afraid that he'll end up back in jail because the area and the street life there is so tough. We tried to encourage Him with the Word and God's ability to keep him. We also stressed the benefits of a relationship with Christ. He kept saying, "no doubt!" (in response to the Scriptures,) but could not for go any of his "religious" training tp pray with us.

Despite what seemed to be tough territory it was an exceptionally great day-especially hearing testimonies from the guys who walked the neighborhood and preached the Word. Mike is a guy who carries his boom box and preaches there regularly.

Isa 12:4 And in that day you shall say, Praise Jehovah! Call on His name; declare His doings among the people, make mention that His name is exalted.
Isa 12:5 Sing to Jehovah; for He has done excellent things; this is known in all the earth.
Isa 12:6 Cry out and shout, O dweller of Zion; for great is the Holy One of Israel in your midst.

(More pics w/b posted on my myspace in a folder "Harrisburg 1-3-09")

From Mess to Miracle!

2008-12-27T17:57:00.008-05:00

The York Raven "Musketeers" (Donna, Scotty, and Gideon) met at Pine Street today. Eddie was the first to greet us. He needed money for cigarettes. His face was scuffed up; he'd been beat up; he'd been in the hospital in a coma from falling off of a roof; and he reeked of alcohol. A local pastor usually gives him money for his habit, but she wasn't around, so he asked us. I said I don't have money, but I have the Words of Life.

"O.K. I'll take that." We spoke and prayed the Word over Eddie for deliverance from the nicotine addiction and alcoholism. He believes the Word of God and received the Truth, that God will strengthen him to turn from his addictions. At first he said, "I hope so..." Later, he said, "I feel better already!"

Next, Lyn, who had formerly lived a lebsian lifestyle stopped for bread and to testify about her new life in Christ--freedom from sin and freedom from sexual immorality!! She's reading a book that really has her excited about her life in Christ: "From Mess to Miracle" by Kimberly Danielle. The book is about a woman whose life was a mess, but now, she's a miracle --and a preacher. Of course, I like that!

Lynn's mom, Willie, wanted prayer and freedom from nicotine addiction--she got it!

On Maple Street, Gina and Amanda were the first to meet us, along with Gina's dad, Rich. The whole family is growing in the Lord. We're praying for Gina's birth in January and provision for the baby. (It could be twins!)

Gideon ministered to Juan while Scotty and I talked to Edwin. We're praying for Juan's grandmom for healing from Emphysema. Edwin does not go to church, but feels saved by his Catholic faith. He grabs his Virgin Mary necklace to show me, "Oh yeah. I believe." Of course, we told him not to pray to the Virgin Mary, to have no other gods before Jesus. We encouraged him to read the Word, to serve God, to have faith.

On the corner, Scotty and I met two more "believers" who were not ready to be free cigarette addiction. One heard the Word of Truth; the other walked away --to smoke her cigarette. In her church, women don't wear pants or makeup--dresses only--and she likes it there; she'll go to church tomorrow.

The Word(s):
Christ healed and delivered with His Word (Matt. 8:16).
Christ has the Words of life (John 6:68).
Do not love the world or anything of the world...(1 John 2:15-17).

Wanna see pics? Click on the Donna's myspace link.
I'll call the folder "Eddie on Pine."

Happy New Year everyone! Be safe! Be blessed. Be loved. (AGAPE love!)
DD

Thy Will be done in Harrisburg

2008-12-23T09:16:00.005-05:00

"Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." (Matt 6:10)

Gideon and I went to the streets in Harrisburg Sunday night, but started by packing cookies at a room on 13th Street.

Pastor John and Romona and their friends David and Sherry offer prayer and help at a little outreach center on 13th street, called "Lazarus," where they invite the homeless and needy to come in for warmth, prayer, the Word...and a few other basic needs. A formerly homeless man, John, just got a place to stay. He came in and received a fleece blanket and some cookies. We had little baggies filled with Christmas cookies and took coffee, hot cocoa, socks and caps to a local church where the homeless wait outside from dusk until the the doors open to provide shelter for the night (usually around 8pm.) Various churches in the city take turns opening their doors to provide shelter for the homeless each night. At 6 a.m. the people must head back out to the streets. It was 13 degrees Fahrenheit and windy. Near the church door, in the corner, and along the wall we talk to mostly sober and sound minded people-the few to whom we spoke confess to be believers. One fellow from Africa quotes Scripture--not just half of this verse, as some do, but the whole:

Rom 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

What we find is that many claim to love God, but are not truly serving His purpose and His perfect will, but are serving their flesh.

This fellow, Simeon, from Africa would not share his story, but said he would be homeless until he was ready, and until the lost things were found, and the things out of order were put in order. He seemed incredibly well-spoken, but would not confess his plight. Simeon, from Cameroon, needed gloves and we had none (except the ones on my hands and he didn't want them-too small and too pretty.)

We made a second trip out and stopped in the alley next to the church this time. Here, on the other side, were the intoxicated. Charlie was depressed and wanted prayer, but did not want to give up his 6 pack of beer. He said he's serving Jesus and he's saved. His belief-Jesus drank "wine." Several others had the same excuse for being drunk. I told them it was grape juice (new wine) that Christ partook and that the Word says drunks won't make it into heaven (Gal 5:21.) Here's what Christ said: repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand--repent--that means turn from your wicked ways!! That means change your mind. There's a better way! After hearing the Word of Truth profanities flew out of his mouth about this terrible world and how this is hell on earth. "This is hell!" is what Charlie thinks.

My question, then why did Jesus teach us to pray this way, "thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven?"

re: the wine at the wedding feast-
The wine at the wedding, Christ's first miracle provided for them a "better wine"--"good wine."
Joh 2:10 And he said to him, Every man at the beginning sets forth good wine, and when men have drunk well, then that which is worse. You have kept the good wine (G2570) until now.

The "good wine," better wine was described in Greek as morally better, valuable and virtuous.

G2570
καλός
kalos
kal-os'
Of uncertain affinity; properly beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), that is, valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished from G18, which is properly intrinsic): - X better, fair, good (-ly), honest, meet, well, worthy.

We talked about a better way, that life more abundant (John 10:10,) but Charlie chooses to continue suffering.

It seemed like one guy was ready to hear the Word and Truth, but time was up.

At the place on 13th street, we prayed for two fellows who came into the kingdom that night and we prayed for Romona's pet scan-that she be healed and free from cancer. Praise God, He is able!
Praise God --we believe she is free;
And we wait for the good report!
In Christ Jesus,
Amen.

FOCUS!!

2008-12-21T13:14:00.002-05:00

...on what's lovely, and true, and faithful!

JESUS!! (the reason for the season)
and reason for advent all year long!!

Advent:
LOVE!!! (in Jesus...because of Jesus! True love!! Pure love! Holy love!)
JOY!! (songs, new songs, old hyms, Christmas songs...in our hearts!)
peace....
and HOPE!

Saturday was spent preparing for a family gathering, but while grocery shopping in Hampstead, MD., I ran into plenty of people to whom I could share some Truth.

Rich's mom who recently joined a church after 5 years of attending. Her and her husband joined because her husband said, it's time. So, they will take the "diamond" introductory classes to find their purpose and place in the church (even though they've been serving and attending for many more years than that!)

At the P.O. We (friends, believers, non-attenders) discussed faith and God's Word about healing.
We're praying for Gabriel Michael who had cancer since he was a baby. (He's about 4 or 5 years old.) The newspapers call him "sick." I said he is not--not according to the Word of God! His grandmom's question is about generational curses--
My response, according to the Word of God:

Christ became a curse (Gal 3:13).
The work was finished at Calvary--and is finished (John 17:4, 19:30).
We were healed by His stripes; therefore, we are healed (1 Peter 2:24).
Lord, help our unbelief (Mark 9:24).

I ran into another former-church-family-member who does not attend church anymore. She'll be a teacher soon.
Hmm?

I ran into her again-- and felt led to say,
"We don't know the day or the hour when the trumpet will sound, so we must be ready!" (Matt 25:13)
That's what the Lord laid on my heart.
And she didn't like it-said she's not ready.
Her response:
"I don't go to church anymore. Don't preach to me!"
(If she's angry and hurt-it makes me sad...and I pray.)

Is there a witness in the house?!!
Last night, I saw a shirt that said "WITNESS." It was a black shirt with silver shadowing the word, "witness." Silly me-in too much of a hurry to stop and talk, just smiled and let my Christ-mas joy shine (b/c I had to get to work, to pay the bills--some of them, anyway.)

So, today, I witnessed: About the young man who was deaf since birth and after receiving Christ as Savior and Lord, received hearing! I witnessed about the guy who had cancer and was diagnosed with one weak to live, but was totally healed by the grace of God, faith, and the prayers of the saints!
And the Buddist, to whom I was sharing these true stories walked away quickly--silently--to his wife, who hated me because I'm a "won't -be- silent- about- Jesus -Christian."

At the family gathering, all I could talk about was cows--how I love cows and what personality they have! And how the kingdom of God is like a milking parlor...

Hannah-Penn

2008-12-14T07:32:00.005-05:00

I am:

(at a community Christmas outreach--
at a school-Hannah Penn
in an "impoverished" neighborhood.)

I am surrounded
by great men, mighty warriors, hard workers, priests, and great leaders,
and charisma.

I am blessed
to be called a child of God, a servant, an heir to the throne, and the apple of His eye.

I am encouraged
by encouraging Bible stories.

I am exhorted
by charismatic proclamations of God's promises in His Word.

I am saddened
by hundreds of people and children who take free Bibles just because they are free and may never read them.

But,
I am praying
that they will (read them)!!

And
I am sad
because we ran out (of Bibles).

I am interested
in this: that a family who won two bikes does not trust three Christians to guard their bikes so they can go eat,
and they go home without the warm meal. Hmmm?

I'm concerned
about the child who skates around the outside for hours watching his friends enter into the school and come out with presents, and he wonders why he was not invited, and how to get invited.
So, we invited him to know Jesus-more-
He'd been in a bad car accident and gets afraid anytime he gets in the car to go anywhere--
So, we prayed with him about that,
and encouraged him to read his Bible,
and he said, "We're on chapter 3."
Yeah!
(and I'm thinking, he's much more rich out here-with that- a parent who reads and studies the Bible with him!!
...and I should have told him that!)

I am concerned
-about the sad faces, the angry yelling mothers, and the little child crying and hiding behind a pole, the pregnant unwed mothers, and the little girl wearing a princess coat who just won a free bike at the raffle and flipped the bird at me and then waved, "bye, bye."
So, I went to her car and her mother to ask a few questions.
And they're fine, and they're blessed...and they know Jesus--because they go to church...
and, I pray about whether to rebuke the child or tell on her,
and decide to be merciful,
and kind,
and speak life,
because love covers....
and kindness brings them, hopefully, to repentance-that's what the Word says--

I go home
I can't sleep
so I get up and keep praying...
and God speaks-
in Malachi-
all of it.

Now.
I have peace (and may rest)
Thank you Jesus!
Amen.

Marketplace Ministry

2008-12-10T11:22:00.002-05:00

There's a "gucci" grocery store in York-I just love it-probably have NO business shopping there, but I was hungry and in the neighborhood. I kept walking around looking at stuff that I wanted, like I want to bake cookies and there's a good sale! I have $17 to spend-Yay! While standing near the , trying to decide and pray about the "difference" between want and need. When a fellow said, "you look like a woman on the mission."

"Well, yeah," I replied, "do you know the Lord Jesus Christ?"

So, for several hours we discussed the Word and salvation. It was great!

Then I run into another lady whose light is REALLY shining! Our eyes catch, so I ask her where she got that joy? And she said, "Jesus!"
Wow! Her son (maybe 3 years old,) Caleb, memorizes scripture. He recited it for me:
Num 14:24 But My servant Caleb, because he had another spirit with him, and has followed Me fully, I will bring him into the land into which he went. And his seed shall possess it.

and gave me a prophetic Word-
"You gotta laugh at that lady!"

William's Grove Speedway

2008-12-07T08:42:00.007-05:00

Bob and Marianna live near William's Grove Speedway. Some of my family members used to race there, but not any more. (My brother-in-law, Keith, had a stroke at 40 years old, ending his racing career.)

Still, it's exciting to visit this place, the Mobile Park next to the speedway, where there's lots of construction.

Ravens: Gideon, Marianna and myself took bread, potatoes, and yogurt to the residents in William's Grove Trailer Park where Bob and Marianna have been witnessing and testifying for the past few months.

We prayed for a believer of strong faith whose having mouth surgery soon, but the surgery is dangerous because of a medication (cumidin) on which she could bleed...possibly to death if the blood does not clot. (Cumidin is a blood thinner).

Another lady invited us in, but shewed us out quickly after confessing that we don't partake in celebrating Halloween. Another church had thrown them a Halloween party at the trailer park. But we asked, "if Christ comes back tonight, are you ready?" They think they are, but don't even read the Bible. If they don't hear, how will they know the way?

Another young believer was really struggling in her faith due to a troubling ex-husband who is controlling and perhaps, even terrorizing.) We encouraged her in the Word, and testified to God's power in our lives to deliver and protect us from evil, how His promises are true, but that she must draw near to the Lord for that assurance and peace. She must "believe" His promises are true and be built up in the faith through enduring and learning to rejoice in this trial.

Finally, we visited a young woman who was raised in the Methodist faith and attends church to please her mother, but Missy likes wicca, believes in salvation by good works, and worshiping nature. She spent an immense amount of time complaining about religious "Christians" who hate gay people and about all of the hypocrites in the church and how Wicca "just feels good..." She hates the fact that a tree will be chopped down. (Yeah, if it doesn't produce good fruit, we replied.) And she has a problem with the fact that the Bible says men are over a woman: "God first, then man, then woman." I explained the how the woman was taken from the rib of Adam and made, yes, second, under his wing-the rib. But she scoffed, feeling that she's the protector--perhaps, even "stronger vessel." We explained the difference between "religion" and relationship, and how all doctrine is good and profitable for teaching. We tried to explain a a how Father's love chastens the ones he loves, and she admitted that she'd spank her child if he ran in front of a car. We brought all these issues and concerns to the cross-saying plainly this, "that's why Christ died."

Marianna tried to explain how Jesus is love and how much he loves her. She said, "I know, I know." I had to cut right to the point at that, "I know" and responded, "No you don't. If you knew the the truth and knew Jesus, you wouldn't be in rebellion to Him and His ways. All you want to do is complain and feel good."

She claims to be happy. Just then, her Wiccan friend shows up to take her shopping.

She left the door open for us to visit again--no hard feelings at my blatantly calling it what it is-rebellion and lies.

It had been snowing as we ministered at this trailer and we endured until our fingers, toes, and noses were frosty, but went in for shelter, fellowship and a warm comforting drink with Bob and Marianna. We were able to encourage one another in the Word and pray together before leaving. Roads were icy at spots, but the Lord brought us home safely. PTL!

We thank Jesus for the blood, His Word of Truth, and His grace and mercy, and the hope-even our faith-that His Word never returns void (Is 55:11) Amen.

The Law is good...

2008-12-01T07:55:00.007-05:00

"We know that the law is good if a man uses it lawfully." 1Tim 1:8

Gideon led several people to repentance and to right relationship with the Lord in York, PA on Saturday. He uses the ten commandments as a starting point, asking, "have you ever told a lie?" They say yes and he asks, "what does that make you?" Well, of course, a liar.

There must be conviction of sin before repentance. Unfortunately what we found was a lack of faith, misunderstandings, corrupt minds, and deception. But praise be to G-d in Christ Jesus and the Word-He is faithful to strengthen those whose hearts desire to be faithful.

John's knee was strengthened on Pine Street. James decided to believe G-d and turn from his addiction. James, Anthony, and Tone were grateful for coats, suits, and sweatshirts that had been donated. (Thank you Mr. Nelson.) Many others heard the Word and the Truth. We're still praying for a new eye for Carson.

On Maple Street, Casey came to the Lord and the Word. Several people received New Testament Bibles. The children practiced finding various Scriptures. Many are learning how to use their Bibles.

Johnia's twins are still in the hospital (premature) and we're praying for their development-Raquel and Naquel. They received baby blankets and a changing table that had been donated.

We're still praying for Jackie and Amanda, for Jackie to walk in righteousness and lead by godly example. And for Amanda-salvation and Truth (deliverance.)

These people are all heavy on my heart. There's frequent shootings on Pine Street, crack addiction, drug deals, and sexually immorality, but I hear the Spirit saying that G-d will make a way. Thank you Lord.

In Christ,
Raven Donna

P.S. God bless the helpers and those who donated. We are truly grateful, especially for our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen.

"I love Lucy!"

2008-11-27T12:42:00.002-05:00

At the factory on Sunday, I saw this tag on the front of someone's car and wanted to take a picture, but it had the wrong pic on it. It brings tears and wonderful memories to my heart and mind because of a wonderful, loving and dear friend, whom at first I did not understand, but have come to know this as true love:

Pro 27:5 Open rebuke is better than secret love.
Pro 27:6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.

This friend will always boldly tell me the truth, and it is always for my well-being. You know who you are--please know that I am extremely grateful for many years of friendship. Don't forget our thanksgiving and walk on Sunshine Way. I love you in the Lord,

Friends forever,

Your sister in Christ,
Donna

Walk by Faith!

2008-11-25T07:27:00.004-05:00

WOW!!
We walk by faith and not by sight...but, miracles, signs, and wonders follow those who believe.

Saturday: the FACTORY- Shrewsbury, PA
Stephanie Ferg is a high school senior who believes with great faith. Unfortunately she had been deceived and labeled: bipolar, OCD, ADHD, and partially deaf in one ear. Fortunately, she chose to believe the Word of God which says that she has the mind of Christ: a sound mind, self control, and the peace that passes all understanding. After praying the Word of Truth over her, Stephanie was calm and relaxed for the first time in her life.

There's more: Stephanie heard about the boy who had been deaf since birth (a young man at Mardi Gras) who received hearing for the first time in his life. This testimony led to increase Stephanie's faith and her hearing was immediately restored as we prayed for her.

Sunday: Chestnut Street - York, PA
Bill received healing for his knee. After I prayed for Joe's healing from MS, Bill asked for prayer for his knee. Immediately, the knee was healing and strengthening.

I have not seen such great faith as Stephanie, her mom, and Bill since Mardi Gras.
Praise God, He still heals through the power of Christ Jesus and the Holy Spirit! Amen.

Sunday: Glen Rock, PA
On the way home, I visited some friends, Dave and Becky. Please pray for God's truth in their lives.

Also, pray for Carson in York-healing for his blind eye, and provisions for his family for the holidays. We humbly ask, pray, believe, and go, in the mighty name of Christ Jesus, our Lord. Amen.

By the way, you can weekend outreach pics on the myspace to the right of this blog.
Stephanie is the one surrounded by Jewlry. She's an artist and brilliant--able to multitask about 5 things at once! Now that's "made in His image!" Amen?:))) DD

Lamentations

2008-11-20T06:35:00.002-05:00

Pro 25:6 Do not put yourself forth in the presence of the king, and do not stand in the place of the great;
Pro 25:7 for it is better that it should be said to you, Come up here, than that you should be put lower in the presence of a noble whom your eyes have seen.

Proverbs 37-
Some things are beyond words, beyond what is written.

There is only One King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Who can stand in His presence?
Who can calm a storm?
Who commands the stars and the sun? Who created light?
There is only One.

Emo. D.
Bowed low. gotta look up to Him, the One and only.
...need more wisdom, discernment, more of Him and less of me.

Fear God!

2008-11-18T16:04:00.002-05:00

Act 10:25 And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped.
Act 10:26 But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up! I also am a man myself.

I marvel at Peter because people were healed as he walked by and they knew that all they needed was to be close enough to walk in his shadow. Regardless of his gifting, we must be careful not to worship any man, but God alone.

What I also like about this passage is the fact that Peter is someone who Cornelius could sit down and talk to.

Act 10:27 And as he talked with him, he went in and found many who had come together.
Act 10:28 And he said to them, You know that it is an unlawful thing for a man, a Jew to keep company with or to come near to one of another nation. But God has shown me not to call any man common or unclean.
Act 10:29 Therefore I came without complaint, being sent for. I ask, then, for what reason have you sent for me.
Act 10:30 And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour. And at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing....

This answers a question that I'd be praying about, to understand this Scripture, "Come out from there and touch no unclean thing." (2 Corin 6:17).
The Word here makes it clear. Anyone who fears the Lord is considered clean.

Act 10:35 but in every nation he who fears Him and works righteousness is accepted with Him.

The main topic of ministry today was "fear God and reverence His holy name." It amazes me how many people who claim to be Christians take the Lord's name in vain! And I had to reflect and confess that very recently, I may have carelessly used His name, and it was not very long ago that I learned to fear Him.

With this in mind, I had also had to emphasize that in everything we do, we must follow G-d's plan for our lives and His perfect will, that this prayer should not be just lip service:
"...thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." Amen?

So, we set sail slowly....(Acts 27:7)

Be Careful!!

2008-11-15T08:41:00.004-05:00

"Be careful little eyes what you see!"

That song "Slow Fade" keeps ringing in my ears.

We know that we MUST separate ourselves from the ways of the world and beware of the things that cause us to stumble. Grey areas in our lives cause unholiness, unhappiness, contentions...

I noticed anger and decided to trust God in the areas of my life I can not (yet) control, and then decided to work on the areas that needs more self-control.

I was tempted to go explain myself to (someone) and the Holy Spirit stopped me and rebuked me.

We must hear from the Lord, wait on Him, and trust Him in all areas of our lives.

After much studying and listening, (and still witnessing) I am led here:
Gal 5:22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
Gal 5:23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
Gal 5:24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to His cross and crucified them there.

YAY! Against these things, there is NO LAW!!
Since we belong to Christ, we simply OBEY! Bow down to (to the Lord) and humble ourselves, seek His perfect will and then do it!

...crucify the flesh, take up our cross, and follow Christ--EVERYDAY! Amen? Amen.

Please pray for families! deliverance for children in rebellion, for wisdom and strength for parents, for single mothers--strength and ENDURANCE--self control and righteousness, for focus on what's lovely and true...For more faith and truth in their lives. In Christ Jesus, Amen:)

Thank you,
Donna

Mercy! Grace! Help!!

2008-11-12T19:48:00.006-05:00

I ran into a young lady in the grocery store whom I formerly taught. Her mom said that she talks about me frequently, that if it weren't for me she would not have passed health.
But, she had just come from the emergency room, having had "a scare," pre-labor contractions. It's been happening since she was 5 months pregnant.

"Are you married?"
"Oh, we will be."
"You used to be a Christian..."
"Oh, I go to my mom's church."
"Do you know what the Word says about pre-marital sex-that unless they repent, they will not enter the kingdom of heaven."

I was holding her hand to pray with her, but she dropped it and professed to be fine.

Hmmm? ...just came from the emergency room...hmmmm, this has been happening for three months...hmmm, but "'we're fine and gonna be fine."

"And what if Jesus comes back tonight?"

I'm thinking...if they would hear, they might turn back and be healed! (Is 6:10)

In my heart, all I can do is cry out to the Lord for mercy!

Heb 4:15 For we do not have a high priest who cannot be touched with the feelings of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted just as we are, yet without sin.
Heb 4:16 Therefore let us come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

I just keep thinking: Repent and be healed!

WWJD

2008-11-07T07:11:00.004-05:00

What would Jesus do?
Where is the real Jesus?
What does it mean to take up our cross and follow Him?

Our Jesus bled and died.
He was despised and rejected; there was NOTHING attractive about Him (Isaiah 53).
He was imprisoned; He hung on a cross and bore the sins of the world; He spoke not a word as they led Him to Golgotha, the place of the skull.
The Sadducees and Pharisees called Him Beelzebub, glutton, and drunkard-they said He had a demon; they called Him a blasphemer.

Isaiah 53:5 But He was wounded for our transgressions; He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was on Him; and with His stripes we ourselves are healed.

What kind of love is this--that it pleased the Father to crush His son?
Isa 53:10 Yet it pleased Jehov'h to crush Him; to grieve Him; that He should put forth His soul as a guilt-offering. He shall see His seed, He shall prolong His days, and the will of Jehovah shall prosper in His hand.

So we take pleasure in suffering for Christ.
I had been grieved at the cold shoulders, the outstretched hands saying stop, "I don't believe that!" (the Word!!) and scoffers, "Christians" who partake in sexual immorality and make excuses, "Christian" leaders who take their kids "trick or treating" who call us judgmental, legalistic, and perfectionist because we preach holiness and obedience--hey, I understand, but I'm taking a stand for righteousness!

WWJD?
Mat 11:20 Then He began to upbraid the cities in which most of His mighty works were done, because they did not repent.
Mat 11:21 Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the powerful acts which were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes!
Mat 11:22 But I say to you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon in the day of judgment than for you.

WWJD:
if we eat instead of fasting, or if we eat the showbread, or if we work on the Sabbath?
Mat 12:5 Or have you not read in the Law that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath and are blameless?
Mat 12:6 But I say to you that One greater than the temple is in this place.
Mat 12:7 But if you had known what this is, "I desire mercy and not sacrifice," you would not have condemned those who are not guilty.
Mat 12:8 For the Son of Man is Lord even of the sabbath.
....(re: the man with the "withered hand.")
Mat 12:13 Then He said to the man, Stretch out your hand. And he stretched it out, and it was restored whole like the other.

WWJD?
He went, so we go, even if we only reach one person:
Mat 18:12 What do you think? If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them strays, does he not leave the ninety and nine and go into the mountains and seek the straying one?
Mat 18:13 And if it happens that he finds it, truly I say to you, he rejoices more over it than over the ninety and nine which did not stray.

WWJD?
and what do we do as followers of Christ?
1Ti 4:10 For to this we both labor and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the preserver of all men, especially of those who believe.

This is what our church is learning, to love in deeds and not just Word, for the Word to be heart knowledge and not just head knowledge, and that mercy triumphs over judgment.

Jas 2:13 There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when He judges you.
Jas 2:14 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don't show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone?

Faithful is as faithful does:
...to be an example of belief, in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

Amen.

Be Ready!

2008-10-25T16:51:00.003-04:00

...in season and out!
2Ti 4:2 preach the Word, be instant in season and out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.

Despite the rain, Raven Donna and Gideon went out in York, PA to carry the Gospel message.

Thanks to Gideon and his friend, Maynard for their help. Gideon continued to minister even after the rain poured down and soaked us. Quaisear and Marteen stayed by my side in the rain as well. We sought shelter for awhile, and after it let up, Quaisear came right back out to see if he could help. Earlier he had listened to a lesson on anger from James 1:19,20. The girls had come earlier and learned to pray, "the Lord rebuke you Satan!" from Jude 1:9. Mostly, we encouraged parents and children to get into the Word daily!

We prayed for Lacey who needs a job to pay down some bills and for Diana who has nine (9) children!

Thank you Jesus, for answers to prayers, for blessing those who seek you and desire to obey you. Thanks for strengthening them and providing. Thank you for helping busy moms find time for You, and thank you for helping them to share the Word with their children. In Your precious name, Jesus! Amen.

HEY PREACHER!

2008-10-24T09:14:00.002-04:00

I've been asked to lighten up:
with the preaching, the Gospel (Good News)
the Truth

they say,
"lighten up."

But Lord,
Psa 139:20 They blaspheme You; Your enemies misuse Your name.
Psa 139:21 O LORD, shouldn't I hate those who hate You? Shouldn't I despise those who oppose You?
Psa 139:22 Yes, I hate them with total hatred, for Your enemies are my enemies.
Psa 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
Psa 139:24 Point out anything in me that offends You, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.

But, I can't hate them! I hate the sin. I'm concerned for their souls. But, hatred? My heart just won't do it-I cry out to God for them with this one defense:
Christ Jesus-who knows the hearts of men, even the wicked,
that He said to bless those who persecute us,
and to pray for our enemies;
Christ loved them to the point of death-
death on the cross and said,
"Father, forgive them for they know not what they do."

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.

Amen

Future Disciples

2008-10-20T11:19:00.004-04:00

"I love God" is what Quaisear wrote on the empty upside down box the girls had used for a table to do a puzzle and a Word scramble. The Word scramble was Psalm 1:3.

Psa 1:3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the streams of water that brings forth its fruit in its seasons, and its leaf shall not wither, and all which he does shall be blessed.

Verse 1&2 tells us we will be blessed if we meditate on God's Word day and night.
The kids learned what it means to be "blessed" and to "meditate" on God's Word.
Particpants were: Iceiis, Essence, and BriBri' (short for Brianna). Misha and Dujour visited.
Quaisear and Marteen flew kites.
Tina was in charge of Bible bookmarks with daily Bible verses to study throughout the week; Scotty and Gideon gave out food and bread.

We took baby supplies to a lady named Donna on Maple Street. A young lady there (Donna's son's girlfriend) just had twins who weren't due until February!! They're still in the hospital in incubators. They each weigh about 2lbs. Please pray for these babies lives and healthy development: Raquel and Naquel. Much thanks from PA!

"Choose this day..."

2008-10-14T15:44:00.003-04:00

God is so good! --led a satan worshipper to the Lord today-what happened is: I stopped by a skateboard and paintball shop. The owner had a "believer" poster on the wall with some Scriptures. So, he and I were talking about ministry, healing, the Word, effective and ineffective ministry....(he said you let the kids talk to the kids, you don't "minister" to them.) I'm thinking, do you know what the word minister means? Well, he does that--ministers (cares for them, corrects them, and loves them.) Jaime, walked in while we were discussing healing -whether it's God's will or not. I'm ready to read a Scripture to the owner, Bob, and he starts asking the youth (Jaime) questions about why he made the choice he made (to serve satan). He said "cause it feels good." The owner of the skateboard shop did most of the talking and I shared some testimonials about how I came to know that God is real. We both encouraged him to start seeking the truth and talking to God. (Ask, seek, knock. Matt. 7:7). And taste and see that the Lord is good (Psalm 34:8). So, hopefully, I'll get to see what becomes of it. The owner said I can come by anytime. And I said let me know when--(I'm thinking, usually the Holy Spirit just leads me there....) I prayed for healing of the his shoulder; he said the pain is gone! PTL!

A Wonderful Day in York, PA

2008-10-12T16:30:00.003-04:00

It has been a wonderful week in the Lord!
Gideon, Scottie and I went to Pine Street and then to Maple Street.
We prayed for Mr. John for healing from arthritis and his sister prayed for us. Mr. John was stronger with less pain and was able to walk up and down his steps a few times. Praise God in Christ Jesus!
Lots of children came for bread and especially for the sweets! Some were fighting over the sweets so Gideon and I intervened and it became a kid's church lesson.

At Maple Street, some children did not know Jesus, so we had kid's church again. I had the pennies with crosses and one of the girls lost hers, so everyone set out to find the lost penny. The lesson was to search for Jesus and His Way more than money!

We also visited Mika, who was babysitting a whole bunch of neighborhood children for her friend who was in the hospital having twins! We're praying for these births and families.

Before leaving we ministered extensively to a Moslem man showed up to visit Mika. His mom is Christian and his dad Moslem. He chose to be Moslem. After a lengthy discussion, he couldn't deny the love of Jesus and the need for a Savior-Christ, the Messiah, the One and Only perfect sacrifice forever. Alot of twisted misperceptions about Christ were brought to Truth by the Word of God, such as Psalm 22, that God did not forsake Christ. (He thought that Christ had blasphemed the Father, while on the cross. He admitted that he needs to repent for his pride (and perhaps, his works mentality.) He heard the truth. Now, we'll wait and see what happens with that seed.

We thank God for His provision, His love, and the Holy Spirit.
Thanks to Pastor Deb from Harrisburg for the food!
Amen!

AWESOME GOD

2008-09-23T06:47:00.004-04:00

Concerns for our government?

I had a wonderful day of ministry to James at the gas station in Glen Rock. He's confessed that he really cares about people and enjoys helping them but, religion had been shoved down his throat as a child. As a result, he was never interested in knowing about God. It was a such a blessing to share the Truth with him, to share testimonies of Christ with him, and encourage him. He made a decision to seek God and the Truth by reading the Bible and praying.

James' main concern is for our government. This Word should encourage us all:

Isa 9:6 For a Child is born to us, a Son is given to us. The government will rest on His shoulders. And He will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isa 9:7 His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of His ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the LORD of Heaven's Armies will make this happen!

I also had visited York earlier to help a lady get food at the food pantry. It was a trying time for me-I got lost (don't know my way around York!) How embarrassing! and how blessed to be kept humble!

Act 5:41 The apostles left the high council rejoicing that God had counted them worthy to suffer disgrace for the name of Jesus.
Act 5:42 And every day, in the Temple and from house to house, they continued to teach and preach this message: "Jesus is the Messiah." (God with us!)
Amen.

How Will They Hear?

2008-09-21T17:02:00.009-04:00

Joh 5:25 "And I assure you that the time is coming, indeed it's here now, when the dead will hear My voice—the voice of the Son of God. And those who listen will live.

Approximately, 2 pm Saturday afternoon,
the 20th of September, 2008
Maple Street in York, PA was fairly empty.
About 2:20 Misha, Gina, and her son just returned home from the funeral of a teenager who was killed the other day-shot to death.

Gina's son; his t-shirt has a picture in memory of Shamar, who was shot and killed. They had just come from his funeral.

This is very sad, I told Gina's son, but you must be bold and preach the gospel.
The killing must stop.
If they don't hear the Truth, how will they know?
If no one tells them, how will they hear?

Later, on Pine Street, another lady told us a ten year old had been stabbed to death, multiple times, "for the hell of it..."

Wars and rumors of wars...

We, Scotty and I, witnessed to several "believing" women who won't give up their relationships with unbelieving men --then wonder why they suffer and are not healed:
Isa 6:9 And He said, "Yes, go, and say to this people, 'Listen carefully, but do not understand. Watch closely, but learn nothing.'
Isa 6:10 Harden the hearts of these people. Plug their ears and shut their eyes. That way, they will not see with their eyes, nor hear with their ears, nor understand with their hearts and turn to Me for healing."

We prayed earlier in the week for a fellow who needs healing-
He felt the changes in his body as we prayed, but still asked for a sign:
Mat 16:4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign. And there shall no sign be given to it, except the sign of the prophet Jonah. And He left them and went away.

This is the Word the Lord spoke to me Saturday evening: from Isaiah 7,
"Unless your faith is firm, I can not make you stand firm."

Isa 7:14 So, the Lord Himself shall give you a sign. Behold, the virgin will conceive and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call His name Immanuel--God with us.

..that none should perish

2008-09-15T09:08:00.002-04:00

Mat 6:1 "Watch out! Don't do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven.
Mat 6:2 When you give to someone in need, don't do as the hypocrites do—blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the reward they will ever get.
Mat 6:3 But when you give to someone in need, don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.
Mat 6:4 Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.
Mat 6:5 "When you pray, don't be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and in the synagogues where everyone can see them. I tell you the truth, that is all the reward they will ever get.

Mat 5:16 In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.
Mat 5:17 "Don't misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose.
Mat 5:18 I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God's law will disappear until its purpose is achieved.

God's purpose:
that none should perish
perish-G622
ἀπόλλυμι
apollumi
ap-ol'-loo-mee
From G575 and the base of G3639; to destroy fully (reflexively to perish, or lose), literally or figuratively: - destroy, die, lose, mar, perish.

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)

Do You Know How...?

2008-09-10T07:37:00.002-04:00

...to enter in
...to really worship
Psa 95:1 Come, let's shout praises to GOD, raise the roof for the Rock who saved us!
Psa 95:2 Let's march into his presence singing praises, lifting the rafters with our hymns!
Psa 95:3 And why? Because GOD is the best, High King over all the gods.
Psa 95:4 In one hand he holds deep caves and caverns, in the other hand grasps the high mountains.
Psa 95:5 He made Ocean--he owns it! His hands sculpted Earth!
Psa 95:6 So come, let us worship: bow before him, on your knees before GOD, who made us!
Psa 95:7 Oh yes, he's our God, and we're the people he pastures, the flock he feeds. Drop everything and listen, listen as he speaks:
Psa 95:8 "Don't turn a deaf ear as in the Bitter Uprising, As on the day of the Wilderness Test,
Psa 95:9 when your ancestors turned and put me to the test.
Psa 95:10 For forty years they watched me at work among them, as over and over they tried my patience. And I was provoked--oh, was I provoked! 'Can't they keep their minds on God for five minutes? Do they simply refuse to walk down my road?'
Psa 95:11 Exasperated, I exploded, 'They'll never get where they're headed, never be able to sit down and rest.'"
Do you know how to rest in Him?
(I'm still working on it:)))
Be blessed!

AmaZING!! God!!

2008-09-06T08:14:00.005-04:00

Hell is vanquished! Amen

In Glen Rock, PA, with my Lord by my side, a Mighty Warrior,
He is mighty to save.

We've weathered a small storm (My Lord and I)
He said He'll take us through high waters and we will not drown
We will pass through fire and not burn (Isaiah 43)
though we pass through the valley of the shadow of death,
and we will fear no evil-
His rod and His staff comforts us (Psalm 23)
We will dwell in the shadow of El Shaddai
though a thousand fall at my side, and 10 thousand at my right hand,
no plague shall come near my dwelling (Psalm 91)
He's shown me wonderful and beautiful things in death
And I praise God for the resurrection
I praise God because I no longer live,
but Christ in me lives!!

So, the Lord told me to testify.
What the Lord has shown me this week
is that I am precious in His sight and the apple of His eye.
(It's so much more awesome when it comes straight from His mouth and not man...)

He has shown me that I am gifted.
Not just with talents of the world, but with Spiritual gifts
and that I am valuable! (really? wow.)
And He has shown me that He still sits on the throne!
We praise You Almighty God,
Jehovah, our healer, our strength, and our peace.

I thank Him for Divine appointments,
for boldness,
for the gift to preach the gospel, whether in season or out,
for His wonderful Agape' love
and the fruit of His Spirit: peace, patience, kindness, gentless, long-suffering, love, joy, and self-control! (Galations 5)
for friends, especially, Christ, as my best friend and the lover of my soul
for old friends and new, especially those zealous for our Lord and His kingdom
for faithful friends, forever true

for reconciliation...
for salvation!
and souls!
Amen
with love to my brothers and sisters in Christ,
thank you for your prayers and love. May God bless you richly and return a hundred fold blessing! Amen? Amen!

RavenDonnaD

Faith, Hope, and Love

2008-08-30T19:28:00.006-04:00

Wow! Praise God! Lord, thank you for food.
Thank You for help!
Thank You for Divine appointments!
Thank You for the children!
Thank You for your Word!
Thank you for Deb, Gideon, and Scotty
Thank you Lord, for Carmen, and Nika, Falitha, Ramika and Ranika
for Tina and Dora
for Wilma and Marteen
for Truth
for deliverance, healing, and salvation!
for Barbara
for perseverance, for patience, for Your Holy Spirit power.
for Agape' Love

In York today, we ministered about faith and hope; we shared the Word about God's strength and healing power in us,
and we passed out food, but what about love?
Here's love: Reconciliation.

Wilma reconciles with the Lord and the Lord and answers Marteen's prayers for someone to ride bikes with.

1Co 13:1 If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn't love others, I would only be a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.
1Co 13:2 If I had the gift of prophecy, and if I understood all of God's secret plans and possessed all knowledge, and if I had such faith that I could move mountains, but didn't love others, I would be nothing.
1Co 13:3 If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn't love others, I would have gained nothing.
1Co 13:4 Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud
1Co 13:5 or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged.
1Co 13:6 It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out.
1Co 13:7 Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.
1Co 13:8 Prophecy and speaking in unknown languages and special knowledge will become useless. But love will last forever!
1Co 13:9 Now our knowledge is partial and incomplete, and even the gift of prophecy reveals only part of the whole picture!
1Co 13:10 But when full understanding comes, these partial things will become useless.
1Co 13:11 When I was a child, I spoke and thought and reasoned as a child. But when I grew up, I put away childish things.
1Co 13:12 Now we see things imperfectly as in a cloudy mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely.
1Co 13:13 Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.

Romans 5:1

2008-08-28T07:02:00.004-04:00

JUSTIFIED BY FAITH

Rom 5:1 Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us.
Rom 5:2 Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God's glory.
Rom 5:3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance.
Rom 5:4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.
Rom 5:5 And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love (NLT).

HOPE does not make us ashamed! Praise God!
In July I met a young lady who said that God gave me passion, now He wants to give me character. You may know that perseverance builds character (vs4)! I thought "uhg"-more trials-yet, I pray for that refining, the purification, and holiness! I know there's another trial coming. I know I need to rejoice in it-and I'm learning to do just that. Praise God.
So, we welcome the trials, so that we may grow in His grace,
draw near to Him,
and rejoice as partakers in His sufferings,
knowing that endurance develops strength, and character, and hope.

Therefore, let us be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2)
Let us change our minds.
Let us be humble: verse 3 of Romans 12 says, let us not think of ourselves more highly than we ought!
The trials have brought us this wonderful gift: humility!
Praise God! (because pride is ugly! and much more than that, it caused the fall!) Amen?

vs4)...EACH PART HAS A SPECIAL FUNCTION in the body:
Rom 12:5 so we the many are one body in Christ, and each one members of one another.

As I'm blogging on Romans 5 and searching the scriptures about character, the Holy Spirit speaks and says,
"Romans 12:5"

And the Lord frequently speaks into my heart, "One mind, One body, One Spirit"
that would be the Spirit of the Lord-
holiness and love
All I know is that we need each other.
I find myself alone a lot and wonder why?
Have I cut myself off? How can I build healthy, loving, godly relationships?
What comes to mind is this: trust God.
Faith and love.
Let us each reflect today our place in the body of Christ and what is our part.
Are we working in unity?
Are we "one body?"
Are we humble?
Are we loving, kind, patient, enthusiastic, helpful, hopeful, prayerful, honest, genuine, hospitable, peaceful,...?

..never repaying evil for evil, but
honorable
living at peace with all men
Rom 12:19 Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, "I will take revenge; I will pay them back," says the LORD.
Rom 12:20 Instead, "If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads."
Rom 12:21 Don't let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.

Amen?

Let me be real here. I've been praying for days about some friends of mine from college, whom I really loved and still care about. They're Jewish.
So, I'm searching the Scriptures daily for the hope of salvation for my friends
because I know that Christ is the only name under heaven by which we can be saved (Acts 4:12).
But, I must cling to the hope that Christ died for ALL
and that He is able to reach ALL flesh
that His promises are true
that in Christ's kingdom there's neither Jew, nor Greek:

Rom 10:12 For there is no difference both of Jew and of Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call on Him.
Rom 10:13 For everyone, "whoever shall call on the name of the Lord will be saved."

Here's what's beautiful-Paul's heart for the Jews-if anyone could boast in the flesh and in knowledge of the law, in Judaism, wouldn't it be Paul? (See 2Corin 11 about boasting in the world). But isn't this like the heart of Christ, who came for the lost sheep of Israel?

Rom 10:1 Brothers, my heart's deepest desire and my prayer to God for Isra'el is for their salvation;
Rom 10:2 for I can testify to their zeal for God. But it is not based on correct understanding;
Rom 10:3 for, since they are unaware of God's way of making people righteous and instead seek to set up their own, they have not submitted themselves to God's way of making people righteous.
Rom 10:4 For the goal at which the Torah aims is the Messiah, who offers righteousness to everyone who trusts.
Rom 10:5 For Moshe writes about the righteousness grounded in the Torah that the person who does these things will attain life through them.
Rom 10:6 Moreover, the righteousness grounded in trusting says: "Do not say in your heart, 'Who will ascend to heaven?' " — that is, to bring the Messiah down —
Rom 10:7 or, " 'Who will descend into Sh'ol?' " — that is, to bring the Messiah up from the dead.
Rom 10:8 What, then, does it say? "The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart." — that is, the word about trust which we proclaim, namely,
Rom 10:9 that if you acknowledge publicly with your mouth that Yeshua is Lord and trust in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be delivered.
Rom 10:10 For with the heart one goes on trusting and thus continues toward righteousness, while with the mouth one keeps on making public acknowledgement and thus continues toward deliverance.
Rom 10:11 For the passage quoted says that everyone who rests his trust on him will not be humiliated.
Rom 10:12 That means that there is no difference between Jew and Gentile — Adonai is the same for everyone, rich toward everyone who calls on him,
Rom 10:13 since everyone who calls on the name of Adonai will be delivered.
Rom 10:14 But how can they call on someone if they haven't trusted in him? And how can they trust in someone if they haven't heard about him? And how can they hear about someone if no one is proclaiming him?
Rom 10:15 And how can people proclaim him unless God sends them? — as the Tanakh puts it, "How beautiful are the feet of those announcing good news about good things!"
Rom 10:16 The problem is that they haven't all paid attention to the Good News and obeyed it. For Yesha`yahu says, "Adonai, who has trusted what he has heard from us?"
Rom 10:17 So trust comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through a word proclaimed about the Messiah.
Rom 10:18 "But, I say, isn't it rather that they didn't hear?" No, they did hear — "Their voice has gone out throughout the whole world and their words to the ends of the earth."
Rom 10:19 "But, I say, isn't it rather that Isra'el didn't understand?" "I will provoke you to jealousy over a non-nation, over a nation void of understanding I will make you angry."
Rom 10:20 Moreover, Yesha`yahu boldly says, "I was found by those who were not looking for me, I became known to those who did not ask for me";
Rom 10:21 but to Isra'el he says, "All day long I held out my hands to a people who kept disobeying and contradicting." (CJB)

We know a tree by its fruit.
Lord, send us out.

Gideon Goes (to the Streets!) Harrisburg, PA

2008-08-25T06:54:00.006-04:00

"...But I have to obey all His commands!" was Chris's biggest concern with coming to Christ.
Honestly, you don't have to, we told him. God loved us so much he gave us free will, but he gave his commands to protect us, so that we will choose to do what's good for us-what is best for us.

Gideon asked Chris if he has a child. Yes, a 9 month old.
It may be difficult to see at this point, but as a father, watching your child, if he's running down the road and headed for a cliff, what would you do?

You'd stop him, of course. That's what God's love is like. He gave his "commands" so that we have knowledge of right and wrong, good and bad, what behaviors will help us live and what causes death.

I like the way Pastor George put it: "I don't know why they didn't call it the ten blessings." Hey, I want to obey the "10 blessings!" Amen?

We let Chris go, after a long time ministering, but ran into him a short while later and he asked us for prayer. Praise God!

What a blessing-most everyone we met on the streets was open to receiving the Truth (the Word) and prayer. We ministered to a young girl in a "gay" relationship whose "friend" is sick-she was open to the Truth and received prayer for the Lord to change her heart and mind and to purify her of all unrighteousness. Praise God!

We ministered to a young lady who said she was a Christian, but dressed like the world. She humbly received the Truth (James 4:4, and 1John 2:15), encouragement, and prayer.

Don't get me wrong; there were a few places we needed to dust off our feet. A lady says she knows the Lord and the Word, but she has a liter bottle of wine and a tall glass of iced "drink" next to her. She loudly proclaims she's ok-she don't get drunk! Folks, you know the Word says to "abstain" from strong drink (Numbers 6:3). And we know that wine is a mocker. The lover of wine will not be rich (Prov21:17).

Hopefully, Gideon's friend, John, from Glory House in York, was the 7th person to minister to the Jehovah's witness, LaMotte, with whom several of us had already spent a some time ministering the Word.

The high light for me, and perhaps enjoyable for Gideon and John, as well, was worshiping with Cecilia- a lady who's most likely in her late 80's received prayer for her heart and physical pain, but she loves to worship the Lord, and she prays all the time! Cecilia bubbles over in the joy of the Lord. She loves Jesus; She loves her children and grandchildren; and she loves us for praying and praising the Lord with her. Praise God!

I hope we can all be more like Cecilia-shining, praising and loving all day long! even when it hurts! Amen?!

Isaiah 12-In that Day..

2008-08-22T12:20:00.001-04:00

Isa 12:1 And in that day you shall say, O Jehovah, I will praise You; though You were angry with me, turn away Your anger, and You shall comfort me.
Isa 12:2 Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; He also has become my salvation.
Isa 12:3 And with joy you shall draw water out of the wells of salvation.
Isa 12:4 And in that day you shall say, Praise Jehovah! Call on His name; declare His doings among the people, make mention that His name is exalted.
Isa 12:5 Sing to Jehovah; for He has done excellent things; this is known in all the earth.
Isa 12:6 Cry out and shout, O dweller of Zion; for great is the Holy One of Israel in your midst.

Amen!

PA Plenty

2008-08-19T09:01:00.003-04:00

Thank God and Pastor Deb (Harrisburg) for all the yummy foods!
Scotty and George loaded up some great meals, snacks, fresh veggies..to take out in York.
I had a bunch of kids toys from the gym (thank you Ultimate Fitness) to take to a few families with babies and small children. Thank God for the donations!

PRAISE GOD!
highlight of the day:
Lyndell, on Pine Street,
a lady we had ministered to a few months ago gave her heart to the Lord and received His peace.
We prayed again for the transformation of the mind, that she would not conform to the ways of the world:
Rom 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God to present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, pleasing to God, which is your reasonable service.
Rom 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, in order to prove by you what is that good and pleasing and perfect will of God.
Rom 12:3 For I say, through the grace given to me, to every one who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think. But set your mind to be right-minded, even as God has dealt to every man the measure of faith.

At Maple Street we distributed food,
and then went to minister to a few ladies whom we've been talking to for awhile.
Praise God, Theresa was healed from headaches!
Many would like to join a church-our church, so we're praying for a place to do discipleship in York.
God bless Jessica and her family,
Mika and Roberta,
and Wilma (whom we did not see this time.)

Thank God for the precious children:
Dujour, Quasear...and many more who love to learn about the Lord and sing His praises!
Lord, we pray you raise up a generation
of young people, full of the Way and the Truth,
who boldly profess the gospel for You.
In Christ, Jesus our Lord.
Amen.

You. Should be Teachers by Now!

2008-08-11T09:55:00.003-04:00

Heb 5:12 For indeed because of the time, you ought to be teachers, you have need that one teach you again what are the first principles of the oracles of God. And you have become in need of milk, and not of solid food.
Heb 5:13 For everyone partaking of milk is unskillful in the Word of Righteousness, for he is an infant.
Heb 5:14 But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, even those who because of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

Raven eats solid food.
Raven feeds solid food
to those who think they are "Christians" and continue to walk in unrighteousness.

You most likely know that the people of the world have heard of a god and even "believe that Christ died for them" but their lives have not been changed-
They don't know Him, His way, nor His Word
they know of a "higher power"
usually their own way or a broad way
Lord, transform them by the renewing of their minds
We pray they hear the Word.
And How will they hear if we do not tell them? Amen

I thank God for Raven
for Truth and Light
for Salt and Wisdom
For Raven Philly, Pastor Frank and Carmen

Carmen's lesson this weekend was Hebrews 5:14
basically, some of them need a kick in the butt and she gives it to them-
"Get up out of your stink!" to those sleeping in their puke.
And they come back to thank her.

I thank God for Andretti,
for his love for the Lord
Andretti, being free from prison, free from the past
for his tenderness, for his strength, for his witness
and the Spirit of the Lord on Him
God's raising up a leader!
Wow! what a change
"a real conversion."

I thank God for the wonderful team of youth from New Jersey,
all high school students:
Erica, Christine, Jane, Honjoo, Kevin, H.j., and Hondo,
for KimKim and ...
(oh please forgive me, the names I can not remember and those whom I did not get to know better).
How we love you and enjoy ministering with you.
What a wonderful team!
-ready to go, ready to serve
-bold and zealous for the kingdom
-kind, caring, and compassionate
-good listeners
-equipped with Bible in hand
-sharing the Word
and the Truth
praying
and worshipping:
God, our Father, and the Son, Jesus Christ,
in the Holy Ghost.

I'm broken for Robert (who was hooked on heroine)
I've been crying out for His deliverance all morning
He received the Word, sobered up and (most likely) used again-
He heard the Word; He knows the Way
That Word will not go void, Amen?

I'm blessed by Alex and his devotion to the Lord and to his child
We're praying for the mother of his child who has been labeled "bi-polar"
for her salvation, for deliverance, for Truth and Life, in her. Amen?!

Later at Inner City
We prayed for Crystal, for her women's ministry, for healing, for her marriage and a healthy childbirth-(she's birthing a nation).
The woman on the bench wanted off of crack, but wouldn't give up "weed."

Praise God for Carol (East Coast) who stepped out in faith and was blessed
never to go back to her old ways!! Amen

Thank you Scotty for the water.
Pastor George is always a blessing to watch as he ministers!
What a miracle!
Praise God!

Thank you Pastor Brandon for opening my eyes to the beauty of Philly (esp. Waterworks)
and Lucy for showing me the steps -where Rocky ran

Thank you Jesus
my Lord and Savior
Amen! Amen!!

The Raven at the Well

2008-08-08T18:38:00.003-04:00

There were bunch of young men playing hackey sac at the spring where I go for water. It's down this windy back road, between a few farms, so I asked the kids where they are from.
"Wow, you sure as a lot of questions."
"Well, yeah, let me ask you this: are any of you Christians."
They all answered no.
Kyle said he doesn't care if he's going to hell. A few mocked, saying that Christ smoked pot. One played a song on his phone -mocking God. A few had questions and seemed serious about wanting to know the truth. A few listened, but two of them walked the other way.
Some stayed and
They heard the truth.
They were all warned.
They heard a testimony- of miracles, of the glory of God.
They asked for proof.
I said, All of creation breathes that God is real
and continued to testify
the Word:
that Christ came into the world as the light
Just then the sun came out from behind the clouds in magnificent wonder as I testified of God's glory-the Truth
that's when the two wanderers came back, cussing... chaos...they gathered their friends, packed into the little car and drove off...

Thunder rolled
as I cried to the Lord and prayed for them as they drove off
A dark cloud followed them.
And I know He will continue to knock on their hearts
and send witnesses.
if only they would let Him in.

Still, we can be confident of this
He hears our prayers (1 John 5:14).

Gnostics Worship an Unknown God

2008-08-08T12:38:00.005-04:00

Raven ministers at "the farm" -- Race Horse road.
There was a terrible storm and lots of rain, praise God!
And the storm calmed. The air cooled. It was a lovely evening. Praise God!
They knew of a God, but did not know His power. There's so much more faith than before...thank you God for the progress and the growth, for your love and your peace, for your comfort and your chastisement.

Still, what about the blood? They don't understand why there had to be blood shed and why Jesus is the only way into the kingdom.
I said, It's very simple: because He died. because He shed His blood...that's the perfect love-there is no greater love
that He paid the price for us to have eternal life
since He died for us
we worship Him
and Him above all.

There is no other God, I told them, no other God, still alive. He lives. We have seen His power, but blessed are those who believe and have not seen.

I talked about Acts 17-to the unknown God
and about Romans 1-how all of Creation proves there's a God.
They can not deny Him, God Almighty Creator, but they still deny Jesus-the only way to the Father...because He died and paid the price-He has been given all authority to judge all things and He does
and He will.
How we will all stand before Him and be judged for everything, whatever we do good or bad
and for every word out of our mouths.
That our hearts are wickedly deceitful;
Jeremy said it twice, that God is in him and therefore, he is God!
Deceived, my brother:
Without Christ, we were sons of the devil (John 8:44)
that in and of ourselves-with out Christ, without the blood, we are evil-
self:
"lust of the flesh, lust of the eye, and pride of life." These things are evil (1 John 2:16).

And about creation, how God is the Word, and the light
they deny His Word, His Truth,
therefore, they deny Christ, therefore, Christ will deny them,
and how they condemn themselves because they chose darkness.

..But I am a good person and god is in me:"
So, God led me to 1John 5-chapter, and there it is-in verse 1.
1Jn 5:1 Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God. And everyone who loves Him who begets also loves him
who has been born of Him.
1Jn 5:2 By this we know that we love the children of God, whenever we love God and keep His commandments.

Children keep His commandments.

Raven Hits the Gym!

2008-08-05T16:12:00.004-04:00

What a workout---those "once saved always saved" pk's just believe:
"Well, I believe that...even though my brother backslid...he was still saved."
Luke 13:5 I tell you, No. But unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.

What a blessing to have the opportunity to minister to these young ladies the Truth about Christ.
Without repentance there is no salvation.
Luke 13:3 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.

Perish (6622)
ἀπόλλυμι
apollumi
ap-ol'-loo-mee
to destroy fully (reflexively to perish, or lose), literally or figuratively: - destroy, die, lose, mar, perish.

"But, nobody's perfect."
I am (Hebrews 10:14).
It is written,
"Be perfect as I am perfect. Be holy as I am holy" (Matt 5:48)
Why would Christ command it if it weren't possible?

The Scripture says that Christ is coming back for a person with out spot or blemish (Eph 5:27),
to work out your salvation daily with fear and trembling (Phil 2:12),...
and here is the condemnation:
Joh 3:19 And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil,
that there is no longer a sacrifice for those who know what's right and willingly continue to sin (Hebrews 10:26).
Finally,
It is impossible to bring some of them back!!
Heb 6:4 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,
Heb 6:5 And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,
Heb 6:6 If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.

If you do not produce fruit you will be thrown into the fire (Matt 3:10).

"Hypocrites, brood of vipers...."

"I'll let you talk to my dad."
My final answer:
"I'm talking to you-it looks like you have some homework to do."

Wow! What a work out!
Go Ravens!

GOD IS FAITHFUL!

2008-08-04T09:29:00.003-04:00

He is faithful! Amen?!
RavenScotty, George, Jayme, and I prepared for York, PA on Saturday, but when the guys went for bread there was no bread! It's baffling isn't it?!
It reminds me of this Christ's question to the disciples:
Joh 6:5 Then Jesus lifted up His eyes and saw a great crowd come to Him. He said to Philip, Where shall we buy loaves so that these may eat?
Joh 6:6 And He said this to test him, for He Himself knew what He would do.

I was in prayer when Scotty called and said there was no bread, but I had just received a call from "i Care" ministries. David from "i Care" said he had fresh corn on the cob and string beans.
So, I went to see how much there was and to pick up the food before calling Scotty back with a report.

God's grace is sufficient! It was a huge bag of each, plus a little more corn-must have been about 3 bushel of each, so we bagged it up and took it to Maple Street. On the way we stopped by to see homeless Mike and pick some peppers. Mike was blessed by the city with a plot of land to grow and harvest vegtables which he gives to the homeless and to us to give to poor neighbors in York. God bless Mike and his work for the kingdom!

At Maple Street, we prayed for Tina, her headaches and her heart, for healing.
We prayed for Jessica and her husband, for her family and provision.
We looked for Wilma and met her son.

At Pine and Walnut, we prayed for Nika and Tone-for a healthy birth and that they will get brave and get married.

Praise be to God for His provision!
Praise be to God He promises to supply!
Praise be to God He answers the prayers
of the saints, of the faithful, whom He will strengthen
Let us not despise small beginnings
God is faithful.

God Loves a Cheerful Giver

2008-07-31T07:35:00.005-04:00

2Co 9:1 For indeed regarding the ministry to the saints, it is not necessary for me to write to you.
2Co 9:2 For I know your eagerness, of which I boast to Macedonia on your behalf, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal has aroused the greater number.

2Co 9:3 Yet I sent the brothers, lest our boasting (which is on your behalf) should not be in vain, that, as I said, you may be ready.
2Co 9:4 I say this lest perhaps Macedonians should come with me and find you unprepared. We (not to say you) would then be put to shame in this confident boasting.
2Co 9:5 Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brothers that they would go forward to you, and make up beforehand your blessing, it having been promised that this would be ready, thus as a matter of blessing, and not as of covetousness.
2Co 9:6 But I say this, He who sows sparingly shall also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully shall also reap bountifully.
2Co 9:7 Each one, as he purposes in his heart, let him give; not of grief, or of necessity, for God loves a cheerful giver.
2Co 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that in everything, always having all self-sufficiency, you may abound to every good work;
2Co 9:9 As it is written, "He scattered; he has given to the poor; his righteousness remains forever."
2Co 9:10 Now He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for eating, may He supply and multiply your seed, and increase the fruits of your righteousness
2Co 9:11 you being enriched in everything to all generosity, which works out thanksgiving to God through us.
2Co 9:12 For the ministry of this service not only supplies the things lacking of the saints, but also multiplying through many thanksgivings to God,
2Co 9:13 through the proof of this ministry they glorify God for your freely expressed submission to the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of the fellowship toward them and toward all,
2Co 9:14 and in their prayer for you, who long after you, because of the exceeding grace of God on you.
2Co 9:15 Thanks be to God for His unspeakable free gift.

OCCUPIED:
This earth was not created to remain void (empty), God brought order and filled His beloved with His Spirit:
Isa 45:18 For so says Jehovah the Creator of the heavens, He is God, forming the earth and making it; He makes it stand, not creating it empty, but forming it to be inhabited. I am Jehovah, and there is no other.
Isa 45:19 I have not spoken in secret, in a dark place of the earth. I did not say to the seed of Jacob, Seek me in vain. I Jehovah speak righteousness, I declare things that are right.
Isa 45:20 Gather yourselves and come; draw near together, escaped ones of the nations; those who set up the wood of their graven image, and those that pray to a god that cannot save. They know nothing.
Isa 45:21 Declare and bring near; yea, let them take counsel together. Who has declared this of old? Who has told it from then? Is it not I, Jehovah? And there is no other God besides Me; a just God and a Savior; there is none besides Me.

REVIVAL! REVIVAL! REVIVAL!!
The Lord has spoken time and again about daily fellowship with other believers. "GATHER TOGETHER...DRAW NEAR TOGETHER... TAKE COUNSEL TOGETHER."
Heb 10:23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering (for He is faithful who promised),
Heb 10:24 and let us consider one another to provoke to love and to good works,
Heb 10:25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.

We must be in daily fellowship with the Brethern and seek God's perfect will fervently (Matt 7:7, Matt 6:33), and His kingdom:
"...Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." Amen.

What a Weekend in PA!

2008-07-28T18:13:00.009-04:00

Praise God for a double portion!
Pastor Sam and I prayed for a lady named Dawn;
She walked by the Inner City Mission (Pastor Frank's) in Philly
and called out for prayer, so we stopped her.
She wants free from the drugs and the hooking but she doesn't have enough faith.
Pastor Brandon and Lucy said the hair stood up on her arms as we prayer for her.
We saw her later. She had changed her clothes.

On Kensington Square:
Doris got healed from rheumatoid arthritis
Some other churches from the area offered to help her with tough love support
to help her home situation.
Malcolm gave up his alcohol addiction and anger
He and his girlfriend, Jill, made a commitment to give up pre-marital relations
they each received Bibles- and hope to get married soon.
We prayed for strength and shelter, and their devotion to God's way.

...We're still praying for deliverance for Gabe and his friend for deliverance from heroine, from the lies and deception of "humanism" and false doctrine, from the traditions and philosophies of men, and that they would know the Truth. We preached it-they need it: The Word never goes void. Amen?

Later, in the park:
Patty and John prayed for deliverance from her gambling addiction and that they will find a way back to Delaware.

A very angry young woman let me minister to her for some time, until she calmed down. She received the Word and prayer for healing and deliverance, asked me for a Bible, and later apologized to the Pastor for her behavior. The ladies son also asked to know Christ better and received a Bible.

We ended the day in worship with Carmen, Jayme, and a gospel singer (from the park).
How good it is to worship our Lord in Spirit and in Truth, in Word and deed, and in Song!
Amen?
Thank you Jesus!
All glory to God!
Amen.

SUNDAY! SUNDAY!
-maple street in York-
I was covered and surrounded with kids from the minute we got out of the car until clean up time...even then, Quasear needed his bandage fixed. Meghan ministered first aid. We worshiped in song. We made bean soup with long green beans from a tree (pretending). Meg and I got our hair done in twists and braids and pulls...ouch! (Lucy kept saying 'poor meg!') We loved it. Scotty and I hit the streets to invite the neighbors out for food. The kids helped! Wilma (Theresa's mom) refused to come back to God and get rid of her anger at having been homeless, without help-and now "stuck" on maple street, with more problems-Lord, how can we help her? Lord, will you soften her heart?
The guys fixed bike chains (several times). We prayed for deliverance from heroine addiction for Robert and another younger guy. It's the second time we've prayed for Robert-the Holy Spirit was really working on him-I pray he stays strong and the Lord takes him out of there-somewhere else. I just keep seeing that house that he walked back into-the notorious drug house. My heart's broken.
Many more houses are boarded up and vacant.
Lord, thank you for Your Word and Your promises.
Thank you for the hope of Calvary.
Thank you for the Holy Spirit.
Thank you for dying so that we could live.
Thank you for the food and the help,
In Christ Jesus our Lord.
Amen

Psalm 121

2008-07-24T22:30:00.005-04:00

I will lift up my eyes to the hills. Where shall my help come from?
Psa 121:2 My help comes from Jehovah, who made Heaven and earth.

We prayed for help and God sent help.
I called the wrong number and it happened to be a friend who visits Kathy, regularly.
Kathy lives in a poor neighborhood in Manchester, MD.
We've been ministering to her for a year
to quit smoking.
and to walk again.
Today was her birthday so it was great to visit today-and take bread
and a Word.
She stays joyful in the Lord despite her wheelchair
and is persistent in prayer petitioning the Lord to help her walk again
and to move her paralyzed hand.

Lord, we lift up Kathy to you
for deliverance from the nicotine addiction,
for healing of her body and for strength
thank You for her health and restoration
thank You, Your promises are true.
In Christ, Amen

DIVINE APPOINTMENT:
as we pulled into the parking lot
two young boys, one who I met at VBS last week
rode bikes behind the car
...perfect timing.
We brought Bibles for them
and a few Christian CD's
Nathaniel asked his mom:
it's ok, he can keep them
but we don't need bread

Jesus said:
Joh 6:51 I am the Living Bread which came down from Heaven. If anyone eats of this Bread, he shall live forever. And truly the bread that I will give is My flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.

Lord, bless this family
and these young boys that they might come to know You, love You and serve You alone.
In Christ, Amen.

Thank you Lord for safety and provision,
your kindness and your help
your grace, deliverance
and power.
In Christ.
Amen

Only one came back to thank Him

2008-07-23T09:54:00.003-04:00

Raven met "i Care" ministries and Crossroads Church to help hand out food in Westminster, MD last evening.

One guy got healed last week and came back to thank us:
Dave had gone through a Mission recovery program several years ago, but suffered adverse effects form the alcoholism and lifestyle of addiction.
Last week he asked for prayer. He'd been labeled with ADHD, so we taught repentance and the Word, then prayed over him
and prayed the Word over him-the mind of Christ...

Tuesday night, Dave came back out to thank us for the prayer. He noticed the change of mind last week (a sound mind) and he's still doing well. Praise God!!

It reminds me of the ten lepers Christ had healed and only one was thanked Him.

Luk 17:15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back and glorified God with a loud voice.
Luk 17:16 And he fell down on his face at His feet, thanking Him. And he was a Samaritan.
Luk 17:17 And answering, Jesus said, Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine?
Luk 17:18 Were none found who returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?

The Lord showed me twice yesterday that we all should be on our faces in humility before the Lord and
we all need to glorify God with a loud voice.

Others had been healed...but no one else came back to praise God.

3 more ladies ask for prayer:
Sara needs money to bring her 7 year old from El Salvador to America
Adela needs salvation
Vicky needs healing from diabetes

Praise God-He is able to do more than we ask or imagine!

The Lord sent 9 intercessors from Crossroads, one an interpreter! Thank you Lord for sending help.
Thank you Lord for the food.
Thank you Lord for the Truth-Your Word, going forth
boldly!
Amen!

RAVEN East Coast Ministers in Manchester, MD

2008-07-21T20:25:00.003-04:00

We ministered until after dark, about 9:30 and I still had to call one lady, Karen back and talk some more. She is the lady that I met and preached to last year, Clara's daughter, who was drunk and belligerent to me, then we helped her with food. She was out when we drove by and it was definitely a Jesus thing: she cried as we talked----an awesome move of God.--(maybe more on that subject later-a tough one b/c she made me promise to not tell anyone-even though Jen was there, a witness. I had to tell her if there is anything ever dangerous or illegal I may have to tell someone-that almost sounds like an accusation to her and she gets a little upset at that.)

There were two other neighborhoods and we ministered at length to another woman and her daughter. So, as you know. God is awesome and awesome in this place. Amen! thanks again for your prayer. I hope Jen will go back again with me. She said it was such a blessing to her and she knows she needs to continue ministering to this one teen, Brandi, whose Mom I ministered to. And she promised Bibles to some other kids in the neighborhood.

Praise God!!

DD