October 2017
Welcome! In this view, I’ll be sharing how my Bible (a companion for forty-two years) was stolen during chapel service, about my transfer to a Southern California prison and the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is the Good News.
“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” 1
What’s New?
A Christian bother from New Jersey named Rich, wrote thanking God for His redeeming love toward those who seem would be unredeemable, expressing…
“Warm greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ! I hope you are well, ‘Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.’ 2
“I just recently read about your story in the book, Redeemed Unredeemable, and I was touched. I knew about the Manson family, but of course our media doesn’t publicize the GOOD stories such as your and Susan Atkins’.
“It’s fantastic that you have opportunities to share the Lord with people where you are. Talk about the Lord using bad for good! That was cool that guy Lotsapoppa ended up accepting Christ too, forgave you for ripping him off, and you took communion together. PTL!
“Just wanted to write to encourage you and let you know there’s another Christian brother out here praying for you! God bless you! Your brother in Christ, Rich, NJ.”
My Stolen Bible…
It was a normal Sunday, going to service with my favorite Bible, which was a gift from a Christian couple in 1976. I had spent years of study in that Bible. I was able to turn quickly to a Scripture while preaching, plus it was highlighted with notes I’d written that were irreplaceable. By the time you read this, I hope to have ended my grieving process.
After exhorting the men at the beginning of the service, I placed my Bible in a bag where I was sitting and then walked into the chaplain’s office to let him know we were ready for him. When I returned to my seat, it was gone. I didn’t panic, but the search was on to this day. After exhausting all leads, it still hasn’t been found.
I’m told it could end up on eBay, so please look there periodically for me, since I’m unable to look myself. I don’t know the possibility of getting it returned without purchasing it ourselves if it did come up for sale. But the Lord says, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.” 3
My Transfer Down South…
I’ve been at Mule Creek for over twenty-four years, so it’s time to move. I have a peace from the Lord about it, and I look forward to the change. Previously, I was at California Men’s Colony for twenty-one years. So now, I’ve been approved for transfer to R. J. Donovan, San Diego.
Through the prison grapevine, I’ve heard the ministry there is excellent with volunteer support from the local body of Christ. I look forward to exhorting the saints, receiving encouragement from them and being part of their outreach to the lost. I believe God has a plan and purpose for me there.
I could have moved already or still waiting to go when this is published, so check my address under Contact Us. Regardless, I’m excited to be closer to those I know in the San Diego area. I’d love to hear how this site is a blessing to you.
“And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” 4
Jesus is Coming…
Of course, we don’t know when Jesus will return. He said, “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.” 5
According to the apostle Paul, we know for certain:
“… the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the believers who have died will rise from their graves. Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. So encourage each other with these words.” 6
After we’re caught up to be with Jesus, He tells us in Matthew 24 of a Great Tribulation on earth, which is recorded in more depth by the apostle John in Revelation chapters 6-18. This time is known as “the time of Jacob’s trouble”, where millions of Jews will receive their Messiah, Jesus Christ, during the tribulation and at His Second Coming in Revelation chapter 19. Being raptured saints, we will return with Him as “The armies of heaven, dressed in the finest of pure white linen, followed him on white horses.” 7
We have a glorious future! Simply, Satan will be bound in chains for a thousand years, while we experience the Millennial Kingdom. Finally, he’ll be thrown into the lake of fire, while we enter the New Heaven and New Earth forever with the Lord! Amen.
“The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” Let anyone who hears this say, “Come.” Let anyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who desires drink freely from the water of life.” 8
A Prayer for You…
Lord Jesus, I come to you. I’m thirsty and desire to drink freely from the water of life. I release all my failings, sins and mistakes into Your loving hands. And I receive Your forgiveness right now into my heart. Thank you for Your precious blood that washes me whiter than snow. Right now I stand in Your righteousness, favor, joy, and peace. Therefore, since I confess with my mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in my heart the God has raised Him from the dead, I am saved! 9
In Jesus’ name, Amen!
Scripture References (NLT):
1) Rom. 8:28
2) Psa. 136:1 NKJV
3) Mark 9:23 NKJV
4) Phil. 1:6
5) Matt. 24:36 NKJV
6) 1 Thess. 4:16-18
7) Rev. 19:14
8) Rev. 22:17
9) Rom. 10:9