RAVEN Southwest

NEWS FLASH

2009-06-21T03:02:00.003-06:00

What a night we had tonight. I night of brokenness, brokenness for the people so many rejecting God but in the same breath saying, "I Love Jesus."

We were used to rescue 1 from the pit tonight. His name is Chuck. He is a hot dog vendor. As we approached he tried looking the other way, but I yelled at him asking, " What are you up too, Why aren't you working for Jesus?" We ministered to Chuck for about 45 minutes and he broke down and said, "I can't do it anymore, but I need help. I try...I pray... but still continue doing what I do." I continued to minister to him and let him know that he needed to let go and let God. Quit trying to do things on his own and give it to God. He cried out to the Lord and wept and then began to laugh and smile.

There was so many out there tonight like Chuck, but most told us, "You are doing a good/great thing, you are making a difference," but "I'm not ready, I need to get right first."

**NEWS FLASH**

If you keep trying to get right on your own, you will always be trying. It's only by Jesus that a true change can be made. Understand hell is real and unless you Repent and Give It To God you will be forever separated from God in hell.

What are you Doing?

2009-04-13T16:53:00.008-06:00

What is the first thought that comes to you when you think of a child??? Cute, sweet, fun, adorable...Yes I think of these things also but the one major thing that automatically comes to mind is innocence. Children are full of innocence when they come into this world. Looking for someone to Teach them, Love them, Protect them, Care for them, and Lead them in the right direction. Unfortunately, there are some children that have it taken away when their mind becomes defiled by worldly garbage.

¹de·file

Pronunciation: \di-ˈfī(-ə)l, dē-\

Function: transitive verb

Inflected Form(s): de·filed; de·fil·ing

Etymology: Middle English, alteration (influenced by filen to defile, from Old English fȳlan) of defoilen to trample, defile, from Anglo-French defoiller, defuler, to trample, from de- + fuller, foller to trample, literally, to full

Date: 14th century

: to make unclean or impure: as a: to corrupt the purity or perfection of : debase <the countryside defiled by billboards> b: to violate the chastity of : deflower c: to make physically unclean especially with something unpleasant or contaminating <boots defiled with blood> d: to violate the sanctity of : desecrate <defile a sanctuary> e: sully , dishonor

synonyms see contaminate

www.merriam-webster.com

Of course, most people think a young child is only defiled when it relates to sexual abuse, etc. This is true, but it is more than that.

It hurts me so much to think about and even write about innocent children being defiled, not just by those unknown to them but by their loved ones... or ones that are supposed to Love them. I have a heart for the youth, but there is a special place in my heart for young children, the ones without a voice, the ones who can’t say no, the ones that are unable to express their opinion, the ones that are forced to do what ever the person raising, or looking after them says. The reason I say, “the person raising them or looking after them,” and not Dad, Mom, or parents is because it takes more than just bringing a child into the world to have a title like Dad or Mom. First, it takes having a heart like my Father, Jesus. Second, enough love to lay down your life, cares, and wants...like my Father Jesus. Next, knowledge to seek out what is in the child’s best interest on a daily basis, that comes from my Father Jesus. You must also have the discernment to make the right decisions; decisions that will be affect the growth of the child spiritually, mentally, and physically. The discernment also comes from Jesus.

There are many people who do seek God about having children. To those individuals I would like to say THANK YOU! Thank you for seeking God before bringing another life into this world. Thank you for seeking God while raising the children. There are also many people who have children because they are selfish. They just care about themselves, and about pleasuring themselves. Usually when the baby is born they don’t care for him/her as they should. This is defiling the young child of God, not giving him or her the love and attention they need or deserve.

What hurts the most is most people are defiling their children and may not even know it! Those of you who are defiling your children and don’t even care. I pray right now in the Name of Jesus Christ that God opens your eyes and I pray that the Lord will convict you and draws your heat to Him! I pray a change is made in your life!

Like I said before, defiling a child is more than sexual abuse. How about when you are riding in the car? Yes, riding in the car. Can the child say please turn off that music it isn’t good for my soul? or how about when there are in front of the television? Can the child say please change the channel, what you are watching is not good for my spirit? How bout what you do in front of the child...smoking, cursing? can the child say please quit smoking around me it can affect my lungs? or quit cursing I don’t need to hear that?How about where you go or where you take your child?

A few weeks ago I went to Mardi Gras to reach out to lost and dying world, and while I was there I witnessed some very disturbing things - Children being defiled! Children who were unable to make decisions for themselves. Children being defiled out of selfishness and pride. The first one that comes to mind is a woman and her child, the child around the age of 2, walking hand and hand down Bourbon Street. For those of you not familiar with Bourbon Street, it is a street filled with clubs, and garbage. This innocent child was being led around to see the sexual immorality, the debauchery, the sin. That is just not right!

The next instance that comes to mind is Monday night / morning 3 children being defiled. Their ages vary from toddler to infant. One walking and two being pushed in their strollers down the sinful streets of the French Quarters. When one of the women was confronted she said, “I don’t care, it’s not my kid.” This may be the case, but it doesn’t matter she is a child of God created in his image and deserves love, care, and respect. My question is where is the person that is raising this child; the person responsible for bringing this child into the world? These children deserve to have someone with the knowledge to know that a place like that is not for a child. They deserve to have a watchman!

The next one is heartbreaking for me. Each and every one of these acts of defilement tore me apart, but this one crushed me.

This case of defilement happened at a praise rally on Monday afternoon. As a woman, that I’m sure claimed to be a Christian, held a child around 18 months of age. As the music started to play, the crowed started to bob their heads to the beat, no one,yet, lifting their hands to praise God (a sign of surrender). This beautiful child lifted her hands to Heaven and looked up. After a minute or two this child reaches down to her neck to remove the Mardi Gras beads, that someone had defiled her with, and after taking them off of her neck she again lifted her hands to heaven and gazed into the blue sky to praise our King. When the woman noticed the child had removed the beads, she interrupted the praising of Jesus to defile the child again, placing the beads on her neck. This child had a fit not wanting the beads on her.

Some may think how is this defiling this child. The Mardi Gras beads are a representation of bondage/ sin. If as Christians we are to abstain from even the presence of evil according to 1 Thessalonians 5:22 (New King James Version). How is wearing something that represents sin avoiding the presence? 1 Corinthians 1:11 Peter says to imitate him as he imitates Christ. So let me ask you would Peter or Jesus be wearing the beads? With that being said would Peter or Jesus be doing whatever you do everyday? The world exploited the saying “W.W.J.D., What Would Jesus Do,” but it is true in what ever you are doing, facing, or thinking about ask yourself What Would Jesus Do?

When I grew up. I never wanted children. This didn’t last long as God blessed me with a son, through my marriage. My wife would come to me continually and say, “Can we try to have more kids?” Usually I would say yes, knowing in my heart I didn’t mean it, and for this I repent. My wife became pregnant twice during this time and we lost them both, which tore me apart. Doctors told my wife she couldn’t have children because her tubes where blocked. At this time, I told my wife I don’t want to try anymore. The thing I didn’t understand was it wasn’t up to me, but up to my God - the one who wrote the blueprints to my life. My wife came to me one day and again told me I think I’m pregnant. Unlike before, I was overcome with joy, even though I may not have shown it. God was willing to answer my wife’s prayers. When my wife gave birth to my baby girl it was like nothing I had ever experienced in my life. I knew in my heart that this was a serious thing because God trusted me enough to raise another child. I vowed to God that I would seek him in all aspects of her life and I dedicated her to God. To the men and women who have children and aren’t willing to give the children the opportunities they deserve, give them to me I will not defile them, but I, through Jesus Christ, will raise them up to be men and women of GOD. It is time to stop the defilement of the innocent young children without a voice or opinion.

Ezekiel 3 God says “Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; therefore hear a word from My mouth, and give them warning from Me.”

We are to be watchmen over our children; seeking God for their best interest. God has put them in our lives to raise them up as they should go.

The next time you have a problem with the way the city, state, or nation you live in is, think to yourself: Am I being a watchman? Am I protecting my child from the presence of evil? Do I surround my child with the things of this world? Do I lay down my life, cares, and wants?

It is time to change. If you are defiling your child or have in the past. It is time to REPENT and seek God.

Matthew 18:2-6

2 Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, 3 and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. 4 Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5 Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me. 6 “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea.

PLEASE let go of the junk in your lives and let God lead you to raise up your children in the ways of God. Follow what is said in Deuteronomy!

Deuteronomy 6:5 You shall Love your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. 6:6 And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. 6:7 You shall teach them diligently to your children and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when your walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. 6:8 You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. 6:9 You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and or your gates.

Election

2008-10-28T20:31:00.002-07:00

Top 10 Things To Know, No Matter who Wins the Election

1.       The Bible will still have all the answers.
2.       Prayer will still work.
3.       The Holy Spirit will still move.
4.       God will still inhabit the praises of His people.
5.       There will still be God-anointed preaching.
6.       There will still be singing of praise to God.
7.       God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
8.       There will still be room at the Cross.
9.       Jesus will still love you.
10.    Jesus will still save the lost when they come to Him.

ISN'T IT GREAT TO KNOW WHO IS REALLY IN CONTROL?

THE LORD GOD ALMIGHTY

Let Go and Let GOD

2008-08-11T23:54:00.000-06:00

The past few weeks have been somewhat different for me, as some of you may know I was terminated from my job. The first two weeks were great, a much needed time to rest and study. I have had time to work on our house to be able to put it on the market. My wife and I are ready to GO wherever God would have us GO. I know where God wants us to end up but don't know what steps we are going to take to get there or if we are staying right where we are to finish some God business. The last few weeks were extremely hard on me. I have been trying to find a job. I have turned in applications everywhere for a wide range of jobs. I have had minimal feed back and was starting to panic. I had planned to go to spend time with Pastor Sam and Lucy (RAVEN East Coast) since before my termination. As the time drew near I started to think maybe I shouldn't go I need to stay here. When my Wife heard me say this she said, "Are you crazy this is not a time that you need to back out of a trip like this." (For those of you that don't know I was in Delaware for 7 months last year. Christie and my son Cole were able to come visit and I took them to NYC and to Philadelphia. As we drove and walked around Philly I was taking pictures of the homeless (for prayer purposes). They were everywhere and there were people walking over them like they were nothing. As we passed LOVE park, I looked at Christie and told her something has to be done, somebody has to do something. She looked back at me with a smile and said, "You do something." I started praying for connections or someway to get back to Philly to minister. A month or so later Pastor Sam calls me and says we met a pastor in Philly and he wants us to join him. PRAISE GOD.) I agreed with Christie and started getting ready. I was so excited the night before I left I didn't sleep and slept maybe 30 minutes on the plane. God showed up and showed out from my first day, with RAVEN east coast. We went to eat and Pastor Sam and Lucy's ex-neighbor came up and told them after they witnessed to him he had quit drinking and had been sober for 7 months, a lady was healed of excruciating head pain, and the owner of the resturant said that the RAVEN East Coast Fellowship could use the back half of the resturant for services. The wildest thing was the people at the resturant started clapping and gave us a standing ovation when we left. Jesus was definitely walking out with us because we didn't do a thing it was All the Lord. Later we went to pick up the food for the outreach and a guy came up and gave an offering some other people came up and told Lucy where to get bread donations. What an AWESOME GOD I serve!!! What a weekend it was going to be.

Friday we started getting everything situated and bagging chips for the outreach in Philly.

Pastor Sam and Lucy blessed me with an awesome meal that night. After we loaded the trailer and put water in the coolers we were ready. As I laid in bed (Thanks Hammy/Ticker for letting me use your room while I was there!) I could barely lay still. I was praying and thanking the Lord for an opportunity like this. The morning came and I was ready. I felt as if I had drank one to many full throttles. As we drove into Philly it was like seeing a friend after a long time. I finally meet Pastor Frank of Inner City Missions/ RAVEN Philly, and Andrade/Geraldo what great brothers. We went to Kensington and Somerset and set up we started ministering and it was great. I had started out ministering to a few guys but there was another guy that was standing there. The others left and this guy kept asking questions. His name was Nate. I was able to minister to Nate for a long time, I asked him about himself and he said, he had never held a job, had a 3 month old son, and was addicted to heroin, his baby's mom drives by him all the time and laughs at him, all of that is sad but the worst was that he had never heard about Jesus. I continued to minister to Nate and asked him if he was ready to give up the heroin and live the life that the Lord had planned for him. He said, "No, I would have to have responsibilities then." I told him ready or not you have a son that is a huge responsibility. Nate asked me to pray for him and said he had to go.

As soon as he left Lucy called me over and there was a guy with a medical bracelet on. Lucy said he needs help. I took him over out of the crowd and began talking to him I introduced myself and he said his name was Carlos. He told me he went to the hospital to get help but they kicked him out because they said there was nothing they could do for him. I began ministering to him and called Pastor Sam over. Both of us shared what The Lord had done for us. We shared scriptures with Carlos and told him about the freedom he could have. Carlos told us he was giving up. He thought he had ran out of choices and was going to have to go back to using. Which meant robbing or doing whatever to get his high. He said he thought he would have to die a junkie. Pastor Sam and I told Carlos about the ONE STEP PROGRAM that saved us, that is ONE STEP TO JESUS. We continued to tell Carlos of the freedom he could have and all it took was repentance. With tears in his eyes he said, "I'm ready," and got down on his knees.

We prayed for him and told Carlos that he was going to have to Call on Jesus himself, that there was not a special prayer that he would have to say or anything that he could repeat after us. Carlos started praying, one of the most beautiful prayers I have ever heard. His prayer brought tears to my eyes. As we stood you could see the old man had been washed away and the new man was standing there with us. Carlos had a smile from ear to ear. Pastor Sam stayed talking to Carlos, I gave him a hug and told him I had to tell someone else about Jesus. I had seen this guy walking the corner all day, so I went up to him and asked him if he thought that this corner was his. He looked at me like I was stupid. I then asked him if he knew Jesus. He told me ya. I told him do you know of Jesus or do you know Jesus. Once again he looked at me strangely. His name was Justin. He told me he had just gotten out of a Christian rehab in New Jersey. I told him that's great, and asked him again do you know of Jesus or do you know Jesus. He told me he knew Jesus, he had given his life to The Lord in rehab, and I asked him why he wasn't out there with me ministering. He said he was trying to make enough money to get his family out of the area. I told him he needed to get his life right with The Lord and The Lord would handle all of his situations. I kept ministering to Justin and he never moved. Another guy came up to him and asked him to buy his syringes from him for a good price. Justin told him no that he had a few more and he could go home. I told Justin he need to get into his Word and get a real job. He asked me to pray for him and gave me hug and didn't let go nearly crushed me. Justin thanked me and said he needed to hear that. After that we loaded the trailer and went to rest for a few. The went to center city. (The place where Christie told me to do something.) I think we were at Logan Circle. As soon a we unloaded and setup the Lord had work for me. I was standing there and this guy/kid came up to me and said, "I hear you do construction." I told him yes and he told me that he had also said he had a job now but didn't know how long it would last. He told me his name was Peanut. Then he just started just letting go of all of his problems and life stories. I began to minister to him and he told me he was a muslim. I didn't pay much attention and kept ministering. He told me thank you and walked away. I walked over and stood next to one of the team members, Gideon. There was a guy that would not leave him alone. He was saying he wanted a word from The Lord. So Gideon would tell him Jesus Loves You. The man would say no, you are a vessel and I want a true word from The Lord. The third time I stepped in and asked the man what was going on. He said he wanted to hear a word from the Lord, so Gideon told him again Jesus Loves you. He looked at me as I was praying and he said I want to hear a word from The Lord. I asked him if he was sure and he said yes. The Lord began to speak through me and the man stood in awe. He told me I that I told all backsliders that. I told the man I didn't know he was a backslider and can't remember the last time I talked to a backsliding person. I told him you wanted a word from The Lord and he spoke. His face changed like someone had slapped him, he began to cry, said thank you, and walked away. I walked around ministering to different people for awhile. I was standing by myself and Peanut came up to me again and asked if I knew someone big in the Philly government. I told him yes. He asked if I could introduce him so he could help him out. I told him yes once again. We where standing near a cross, I told him to follow me and took him in front of the cross. He didn't realize what I was doing and asked me again do you know someone that could help me. I said yes and told him to turn around. The one I knew that could help him hung on a cross similar to this one over 2000 years ago. He told me yes I know but I need someone who is here now. That is when The Lord let him have it I began to testify and show him how Jesus was here. He stood there with his mouth open. He gave me a hug and asked me to pray for him. I prayed for him and started walking around. These people were great. We stayed a while longer and started loading the trailer. When we were finished loading it was time to leave and I really didn't want to. We all loaded up and made the trip back to Hanover. This was another great time for me. I had never really talked to Donna more than everyday chit-chat or scripture, but her and I talked the whole way. We talked so much I never looked at the gas gauge and when I did it was way past E. It was good conversation she is a great person and I am glad to know her.

When we got back to the Pastor Sam and Lucy's house we hung out talking for awhile then crashed. We woke up early on Sunday to set up for service and discipleship class. Service was great and so was Praise and Worship. After service we prepared for another day of outreach. We were going to Maple street. This is a very poverty stricken neighbor hood, with some great people. Last year when I was in Delaware I would spend the majority of my weekends with Pastor Sam and Lucy. We would be on Maple street almost every Saturday. It was cool for me to be able to go back after a year. The kids are all getting so big. There was a group of boys that I played baseball with last year that really touched my heart, I was able to see one of them this time and he wasn't so small anymore.

When we got to Maple street we set up and began cooking. After a few minutes Pastor Sam came up to me and said come on. I thought to myself Oh Ya time to go to work. We walked for a few minutes and the entire neighborhood was empty. Usually people are in front of their houses chillin'. We continued to walk and saw a kid on a scooter. We started talking to him, he told us Jesus was his personal Lord and Savoir and he was on the worship team at his church. We talked to him for a few minutes more when a group of kids came walking by. We confronted them and they kept walking. One of them the leader was acting funny saying that he didn't believe in God. So we kept walking with them talking to them. The leader Dashaun finally stopped and started talking to Pastor Sam. I kept walking with the group. They stopped in front of a house and sat down so I began ministering. These kids were laughing at everything I told them. I told them of the reality of Hell and once again they laughed. There was a lady sitting outside who was listening to every word, so I walked over and ministered to her for awhile then went back to the kids. After warning the kids about the path they were on I crossed the street and saw Pastor Sam ministering to Dashaun. I also saw the kid on the kid on the scooter paying attention to every word Pastor Sam spoke and every move he made. I walked over and and was going to start ministering with Pastor Sam. A lady drove up next to me opened her door and said Thank you. She said we were just what the neighborhood needed. She told me she was Dashaun's cousin. She also told me that Dashaun had just been released from jail and his mom had past away just months ago. I continued to Pastor Sam and Dashaun and started ministering. This kid was not the same kid that was busting jokes and telling us he didn't believe in God. He was asking some serious questions and thought he was doing good by helping the other kids out with money when they needed it. We stayed with Dashaun probably 2 hours. We prayed with him and went back to the park where the rest of the team was. I met this great brother in the Lord named Junior. Junior was great we started talking and he was telling me about his life. Lucy came up to me and asked how old I thought he was and I said 50. Junior shook my hand and told me thank you, he said he was 67. We continued to talk and he told me about his kids. His oldest was 41 and his youngest was 22 months. This brother was still going strong. Some lady's came up and Junior started talking to them. One of the Lady's husbands need prayer so we joined together and prayed. Junior started praying in Spanish and it was awesome. I have been around the language my entire life and had never heard it spoken like that, it gave me the chills. We continued to serve food and water for awhile after the crowd stopped we loaded the trailer. We started talking to Junior some more before we left Pastor Sam, Lucy, Junior and myself joined together and began to pray. Junior started praying (in Spanish) and once again it was awesome, he started calling fire down, Oh yea, it was good, no it was great The Spirit was moving. The fire came and consumed me.

Monday we got up, a little sluggish, and hit the buck. Pastor Sam and Lucy took me to Lancaster to the replica of the Tabernacle. This was a sure blessing to me. I had read many times but could never really visualize it or understand the distances. After seeing it and re-reading it all came together. Later that day I was blessed again Pastor Sam and Lucy took me to eat "Maryland Crabs." Growing up and living in the southwest we never really get to experience fresh seafood. I did that night and it was great. The crab and fellowship was great but what was really the best is we were able to share Jesus with our waitress Aubrey.

Tuesday I woke up and packed my belonging, I was flying home. The blessing never stopped the entire time and Lucy blessed me again with her famous chocolate chip pancakes. (Can't remember if I told you, but they were great.) After breakfast I loaded my bags in the truck and Lucy and Hammy/Ticker took me to the airport. As excited as I was to see my Wife and Kids I hated to say bye to my East Coast Family.

The last leg of my flight home was interesting an older lady sat next to me and drank 2 cups of wine after she finished she started talking to me. I started ministering to her. She said she was a Christian well a baptist, and she drank 2 cups of wine everyday for her heart. She told me that the way she looked at it was Jesus turned water into wine, so it couldn't be wrong to drink it. The Spirit unleashed on her, she sat dumbfounded, and didn't know what to say. I showed her why it was wrong for her to be consuming alcohol. She said thank you and was amazed that a kid knew so much, I told her I didn't know a thing, but my Father knew it all.

This trip was just what I needed. It seems that everytime I am around Pastor Sam and Lucy I learn something new. Well this time was no different.

Thank you Pastor Sam, Lucy, Hammy/Ticker, Pastor George, Ocho, and Donna!

I apologize

2008-07-28T22:41:00.003-06:00

I would like to apologize for not posting in such a long time. I could give many excuses but I will not. I will say that I have been lazy. Great things have been happening and I know that if I don't post no one will know about these great things. Please forgive me.

PB

Mardi Gras 08

2008-02-10T22:30:00.001-07:00

This is such an awesome year of ministry and we are just in February. I can't wait to see what the Lord does in the other 10 months. I had a great time last week during Mardi Gras. I Thank The Lord for allowing me to be there. The Lord allows me to learn so much every year during Mardi Gras, this year was no different.

This year was a little different. Usually there are no struggles getting to Mardi Gras well this year there was. For those who don't know God blessed us with a baby girl December 22. This was part of the struggle did I really want to leave her for 5 days when I had been away for a week just two weeks prior. That's when I had to give it to God and realize it wasn't about me, it was about whoever God had prepared for me to talk to. I may be there last chance. The night before I was scheduled to leave I started feeling terrible, just rundown and weak and thought there is no way I can do this. It will be to hard being away from home and be sick. What good would I be just lying in bed the whole time, how would God use me in this way. I thought I should call continental and have my ticket refunded. Once again I took authority over the lying devil and claimed the Healing that was given to me by Jesus at the cross. I woke up in the morning full of energy and feeling great.

There was something else that was a different about this year than any other year. My Mom was able to attend. That was great I have never been able to minister on the streets with My Mom before, that was a blessing for me. I pray one day that not only My Mom is there but My Son, Dad, Sister, Brother-in-law , and as soon as my daughter is ready her and My wife are there also.

The time is now to prepare for next year. Quit praying asking God to open doors to allow you to be there. The door is open the Lord is waiting for you to walk through it. I will guarantee that you will never be the same once you attend.

Who are YOU?

2007-11-07T19:48:00.001-07:00

Last night on Central was different than any night I have ever had. Last night the Lord showed my that my steps are ordered by him. When I hit the streets I walked about 100 yard and realized I forgot my phone. Usually I would just had left it and proceeded to the streets but I promised my wife I would carry my phone. So I went back to get my phone. I was going to the streets and had to go to the bus station first. As I was leaving the bus station there was a guy who left at the same time, he was walking fast. He was walked on the side walk and I cut through the street. We met up at the same place of 1st street. He looks at me and said, "where you going?" I told him ,"going to preach the Gospel, and you." He looked a little puzzled and said he was trying to go home. He introduced himself and asked if we could go somewhere and talk. I started ministering as we went to a diner on 5th and Central. We arrived at the Diner and Jack started talking telling me about himself said he was in the service and had metals and this and that. I told him I didn't care about the metals or his service time. I told him I only cared about his soul. I told him everything that he put value in wasn't going to do a thing for him when he stood in front of the Lord. I told Jack that if both of us where to walk outside get hit by a car and die we would both stand before the Lord. I told Jack what happens after that is what concerns me, I'm not concerned for myself because I am born again and will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. I told him I am concerned for you Jack because you have told me you do not have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and have never repented of your sins. Jesus said;

John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.

You must have a relationship with Jesus Christ to enter the Kingdom of God. Jack looks at me and says, "Who are you, you don't know me and I don't know you, Who are you?" I asked him do you know about Jesus and that he died on the cross for you sins. He stopped me right then and asked are you Jesus. I told Jack I wasn't Jesus but I was sent by Jesus. I was being obedient spreading the Word of God. Jack stops me again and says I have demons and what are you going to do about it. My answer was the same Spirit that rose Christ from dead is the same Spirit that dwells in me so I am going to cast them out of you. I cast the devil out of Jack he started crying and got quiet, then he said you're an Angel. No just a messenger that was willing to go when I was told to go. Jack told me he had been running from the Lord for a long time and he was ready now to stop. Jack said it seemed like every time he needed the Lord he left him. The only one who left was Jack. I told Jack the only time that he was willing to talk with the Lord is when he was in trouble and it couldn't be that way. You can't have a relationship with someone and only talk to them when you need something. To have a relationship you must have daily contact. This is why when a we have a relationship with Jesus Christ we must pick up our cross and follow him daily.

I asked Jack so what are you going to do. Jack looked at me and said,"stop," I thought he was telling me to stop but he meant he was going to stop. I asked him stop what. Jack looked at me and said stop running and walk with the Lord. I told Jack you have to call upon the Name of the Lord to be saved.

Romans 10:13 For "whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved."

Once you do that you need to lay it all down and serve Jesus with everything you have and everything you do.

Luke 9:23 Then He said to them all, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.

Jack looked at me and said I still don't know who you are but thank you. I told Jack you have two hours before you get on your bus this would be a great time to sit down and have a talk with the Lord. He agreed.

Jack looked at me wiping his tears and asked where are you going now? I told him back to work there are more just like you, and once again Jack asked "Who Are You," as I walked away.

Just a willing vessel who is willing to go when no one else will go. A servant who is willing to lay down his life for his Master. A man who's footsteps are order by God. A child who will follow the Spirits lead. A JESUS FREAK.........

Fall Crawl Aug-31-07 more like Fall Run

2007-09-08T01:24:00.001-06:00

Many people were running to JESUS. When we got on the streets our prayers were answered. We prayed that God would prepare the hearts of the people we were going to talk to and that we would be like light houses for the Him. That is exactly what happened. I was able to minister to a homeless kid that usually runs from us. The next people we ministered to stopped as we walked by them, so I stopped also. As I began to tell Marcos about Jesus he stood in awe. Marcos told me that he and his homie Joe had hard weeks and had given most of their money to their girlfriends. Marcos said that they agreed that they deserved to have some fun (getting drunk). I asked him if the 3 hours of what he considered fun was worth eternity. I told him that if he died right then that is what he would receive, an eternity in hell.

Galatians 5:21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

He told me he had of heard about Jesus but not what I was telling him. I let him know it wasn't me but the Spirit talking through me. I let him know that he didn't have time to wait or think about it, because the Kingdom of God is at hand and we aren't guaranteed another day or even another second. In 2 Timothy the Lord tells us to be ready in season and out of season.

2Peter 3:10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up.
(NKJV)

Marcos looked at me and said I'm ready now, I need Jesus and a better life. I told Marcos that if he truly meant that with his whole heart that he could call upon the Name of the Lord and be saved.

Romans 10:13 For "whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved."

I prayed for Marcos and then he prayed and asked the Lord to come into his life. As soon as he finished praying he had a smile from ear to ear.

I looked over and Marcos' homie Joe had given his life to the Lord also.

We continued on with the Lords work as we walked up to this group of guys one of them looks directly at me and says, "what's up?" I stopped and began ministering to him and his friends. After a few minutes he said that he wanted to know more but he had to go he asked for my number because he wanted to talk some more.

As we walked off Cesar asked me how I knew him, and Pastor Don asked if he was someone I had ministered to before. My response was I had never seen him a day in my life. The Lord had given me his name which was Mario.

We continued on and I was in awe of The Lord. What an awesome God we serve. As we walked down the street I looked over and saw a guy I had met in church. It was Thomas, who a month earlier had wanted to go out on the streets with me. I was on my way to Delaware 3 days after we had last talked, so he was never able to hook up with him. I went back to that church when I came back home but Thomas never attended a service. I always wondered about and prayed for him. I went across the street and Thomas's eyes almost came out of his head. I asked him what he was doing down there. He let me know that he had walked away from God, and tears began to roll down his face. As I was ministering to him Pastor Don was ministering to his friend. I overhead Pastor Don ask him if he was serving Jesus. His answer was, "yes," I work for a "Christian" owned security company. This security company named "in his service" worked for clubs, bars, or any special wordly events. After I heard that I tuned that clown out.

For those of you that are reading this if you don't know. Working for a Christian owned company, going to building called church, doing good deeds....doesn't make you a Christian anymore than going to McDonalds makes you a happy meal. To be a Christian is to be "Christ Like" an imitator of Christ. We are the Church the Church is not 4 walls and a roof.

Ephesians 5:1 ¶ Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.
2 And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma.

Thomas said he was ready to come back to the Lord and wanted me to lead him in a prayer. I told him he knew what to do and I would pray with him. He asked The Lord for forgiveness. Thomas said he want to hit the streets with me like he had said before. I gave him my number and he said he would call.

We walked up the street over and when turned the corner to go back on Central this guy came out of nowhere. He walked up to us and said, "I need help." Pastor Don asked him what kind of help. He told us, "I need Jesus!" I told him he came to the right place. We introduced ourselves, his name was Julio Chavez. He told me he want to go to a home to get drug treatment. I told him there was a men's home I could take him to, but it was different that a drug treatment center. This place wouldn't give him drugs to get him off of the drugs or lead him in a 12 step program. I told him Jesus would de-tox him and there was only 1 step. That step is one step to Jesus. He said he was for it, so I told him I couldn't take him right then but if he came with us I would take him later, he agreed.

We walked to the bus station ministering to any and everyone along the way. Julio asked me if we could take him cause he wasn't feeling well. So we agreed and made our way to the car. Half way there I stopped to minister to a security guard, no this one didn't work for "ihs". His name was Isaac and he had never heard about Jesus and what Jesus had done for him. Isaac thanked me and said he had to continue his route. I turned and Pastor Don, Cesar, and Julio were preaching to a group of people.

We made it to the men's home and the lights were on. I walked inside and the men's home director was up with 2 other guys. I explained what was going on and introduce Julio to them. The director told me they were up praying. and it was divine appointment because they were never up that late.

We went back to the Central, where we ministered to these two guys, who claimed to be Christians.They were on their way home after partying. One of the guys claimed to be led by the Holy Spirit. He was led by a spirit alright but NOT the Holy Spirit. He began trying to justify his actions and telling us that we were wrong. He claimed that is was alright to drink, because everyone around him knew his heart. WRONG! I would say his heart was unclean. He said we offended him, it wasn't us and he wasn't offended, he was being convicted.

We walked off and went back to work. We were able to minister to many homeless at this time. They were going to some church that was feeding them with False Teachings and they bought into that junk.

We started walking to the car after ministering to the few people still out. There was an elderly lady sitting in a dark corner. Pastor Don walked up to her and asked if there was anything we could do for her. She asked if we could give her directions to the bus station. Pastor Don said better than that why don't we carry your belongings and walk you to the bus station. She agreed. Pastor Don asked her if she knew Jesus. She said she was Jewish and Yes. He was a prophet. We began ministering to her and she said that she would take all of it back to her congregation on the east coast to discuss it.

As we entered the bus station there was an irate guy arguing with the bus station attendants. We set the lady's belongings down and went outside. When we get outside we notice the guy that was inside arguing with the bus employees. I ask him if he know Jesus and he starts cursing telling us his side of the story of what happened inside. We asked him to quit talking that way to us. He didn't so I stepped back. Pastor Don and Cesar continued to talk with him. Pastor Don asked him again to watch his mouth. He didn't so Pastor Don joined me. Cesar continued to minister to this guy. A while later Cesar and this guy walked over to us. He apologized and introduced himself to us. We all began ministering to Armando. He told us he was on his way to LA to do a deal but they wouldn't let him on the bus. We all told him that it was divine appointment. He agreed and we prayed with him.

What an Awesome time serving the Lord. What a blessing it was to have Pastor Don of RAVEN Amarillo join us for the weekend. Cesar was shocked to know that Pastor Don drove from Amarillo to help us on the streets. I thank God for Pastor Don being obedient. It is sad that people in our own city that are always talking about revival in ABQ were no where to be found. People, how is revival going to happen with you sitting in front of the TV (the weapon of mass distraction) or doing things that are thought to be more important. Wake Up ABQ/Rio Rancho when the Lord said "GO" he didn't mean to the movies, your happy place, or your comfort zone.

Broken

2007-08-23T22:50:00.001-06:00

Tonight Christie wanted to go get something to eat at the Mall. I usually don't care to go but tonight I said "Yes" without second guessing. We arrived at the mall and as we walk to the entrance I saw this guy in a wheel chair, who looked like something was wrong. As I got closer I recognized him it was Jason, a guy I ministered to about a year ago. When I reached him I said "What's up?" I knew he didn't know who I was, so I introduced myself to him once again.

Jason told me, "I am trying to figure out how I am going to get home." I asked him what he meant. He told us that he had taken a taxi to the mall but he spent all of his money. I told Jason that we would give him a ride home as soon as we finished. Christie told Jason that we would just call a taxi and pay for his ride if he wanted to leave right then. He said that He would just wait until we were done. The Lord told me to take him then so I asked Jason if he wanted me to take him home. Christie said that was a good idea because she wanted to do some walking after eating. Jason was all for it. Christie told me to call her when I got back. Jason and I made our way to the car. We both got in and Jason began telling me about his day at the mall. He told me he watched to movies while he was there. I told Jason that is all good but, How is Your Walk with The LORD? He told me, "complex." In other words Non-Existent. We were in the car about 5 minutes and it came to Jason who I was. It was like something terrified him. His eyes got big, he said now I remember you and looked the other way. I believe at that time the devil knew what was going to happen. The Spirit of The Lord rose up inside of me and I began to Preach the Gospel like never before, to Jason and didn't give him a second to interject. I Love a Captive Audience. Jason told me he was a good guy. I asked Jason if he had ever sinned. He came back with I'm human you can't hold that against me. I reminded him that I was human also. I let Jason know that there isn't only the sin of Commission but also the sin of Omission. Which means doing what God has said not to do is just as bad as not doing what God has said to do. We rode for about 30 minutes and arrived at Jason's neighborhood. He wanted me to drop him off at a park. So I pulled over and helped him get out. I asked Jason what his problem was, why wasn't he wanting to Live for Jesus?

He told me he was stubborn, and it was in his blood. I shut him down right there and told him that was a lame excuse, and was a lie from the pits of hell. I told Jason that he wasn't only being stubborn but stupid at the same time. I told Jason that God breathed life into him the same as he breathed life into me and we were all created in Gods image so we have Gods blood flowing through us. There is no such thing as stubborn blood, just stubborn people. Most people choose, for what ever stupid reason, to turn their back on God even after all that he has done for them. I Left Jason by telling him "YOU BETTER GET RIGHT BEFORE YOU GET LEFT"

As I left I began to weep. It is sad all the People who are living a lie and are on the path to hell.

When I was close to the Mall, Christie called to see where I was. I was just a few minutes away she tells me, "That's good we're outside, I don't want to walk or eat here.

Thank you, Lord for ordering our steps and setting a Divine appointment with Jason.

I pray that Jason would have no other way to turn but to God and he would have Godly influences in his life.

Different

2007-08-13T20:03:00.001-06:00

Tonight was a night like no other. We went up and down Central Preaching the Gospel. But tonight we walked the streets surrounding downtown ABQ. I had heard that the mayor was doing away with the homeless (putting up a facade). He doesn't want them in the city. From what I hear if they are anywhere for longer than 20 minutes they are arrested. As we walked the streets there were no homeless to be found. Cesar and myself asked where could they be? We continued to walk the streets, I began to see many things that were very interesting.

One thing that was interesting to me was a church on Central and Broadway. The church had a tremendous amount of property and a large set of buildings. There was enough space to feed and let the homeless sleep. But instead it was locked up like a fortress, and the fence had No Trespassing signs stating the fine amount for anyone caught. The thing that got me the most was the church slogan, "People Count."

Only at certain times ?????

As we continued we noticed a building called "food for the hungry." Yes you guessed it, it was closed. I'm sure glad people aren't hungry at night.

Cesar stopped me when he saw a bench depicting the city. It was covered in satanic garbage, from tarot cards to skulls. No where on the bench in the depiction of the city was there a Cross. What gets me is the art put on that bench had to be approved by the city.

To Bad for you artist/devil I claim Albuquerque for The Lord in the Name of Jesus Christ

Joshua 1:3 "Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given you, as I said to Moses.

We saw a club hidden behind buildings and there was a lot of commotion coming from there so we agreed there was many there that needed Jesus so we tried to find the way to get to it.

As we walked Cesar looked up and said, "Rescue Mission." I noticed a guy sitting outside I thought to myself this guy must work here or something, so we crossed the street and began talking to him. He had been there for a week.

His name was Jose, he had tried to commit suicide a week earlier. He said he didn't have a reason to live, because everything that he had in life had be taken away. We began ministering to him. I could see the hurt hidden in him. I let him know that Jesus took the punishment to bring us peace. We didn't have to carry all of the burdens, we need to lay them at the foot of the cross. Jose said that he wanted to read his Bible but everyone was sleeping so he couldn't turn the lights on. Cesar tells Jose we can read out hear on the street, so Cesar began reading the book of Job. I told Jose to call it all Joy and to let go of his past and make a future with the Lord. We prayed with Jose and he walked into the house with a big smile. Praise God, that is what it is all about.

10 August 07

2007-08-10T20:47:00.001-06:00

RAVEN sw will not be out on the street tonight. We will be back on the streets tomorrow night, leaving Rio Rancho around 9pm. We will be studying the Word of God tonight and discussing some street tactics. If anyone in the Albuquerque/Rio Rancho area is interested in joining Contact me by phone or email and I will give you directions to the RAVENs nest.

News flash Read All About It

2007-08-04T23:06:00.001-06:00

What would people do or say if there was a war going on in America? The troops were given their orders and a majority of the US Army, Air-force, Marines, and Navy deserted ? What if this war was not only on American soil but this war was spread throughout the World? What would happen if this enemy knew how to talk and walk like the troops? What if the enemy was attacking everyone even children no matter the age? What if there was only one way to decipher between the US Army and the enemy? What if people thought that the enemy side was so great that they gave in and served the enemy just to find out that the enemy side was just looks and ended in death and destruction? What if there were only a few brave soldiers that would say I will fight until the end to keep people from being taken over from this enemy? What if many people said I haven't been called to help or that just isn't my thing? How would that make you feel? Hurt I'm sure, that these people could help but for some selfish reason just wouldn't.

The reality is; this is going on right now as you read this! No it is not the US Army, Air-force, Marines, and Navy but the the Modern Day Church. There is a war going on right now for peoples souls. The Lord has given the church it orders:

Mt 28:19 "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

The church has deserted! There are only a few that are being obedient to the Lord saying, "YES LORD I'LL GO, SEND ME!"

Mt 9:37 Then He said to His disciples, "The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few.

I just don't understand why people are so selfish. The need of the modern day church is to expand the walls and get new comfortable seats. When the need is to be gettin' out of the seats and Hittin' the Streets. The walls need to be dropped and the church needs to go to the Lost and Dying People in this world. Pastors of these churches are more worried about attendance, for money purposes, than peoples Souls. I have encountered pastors like this in the past. They say they are going to sponsor the ministry or take me on as a missionary, but when it all comes down to it, IT NEVER HAPPENS. Because they need new tables for hospitality or a new pool in their back yard.

When I ask the people of the modern day church what they are doing for the Lord. They reply with, "Well I go to church and I pray." If you don't know that isn't serving the Lord. Going into the four walls of the so called church is so you can plug in and be fed. Most people pray only when they need something! We are to pray without ceasing, according to 1 Thessalonians 5:17

IF YOU AREN'T SERVING JESUS YOU ARE SERVING THE DEVIL!

Time is short The Kingdom of God is at Hand. It is time to pick up your cross (die to self) daily and follow the Lord.

Ephesians 5:1 Therefore be imitators of God as dear children.

To be an imitator of Christ is to be out Preaching the Gospel, where ever that may be.

Christians need to take a stand, the devil is trying to push the lines back as so called Christians (Jelly fish) are sitting in the church with their lame excuses for not doing what they should be doing according to Gods Word.

For those people I say this; quit deserting the Lord, Jesus didn't hang on the Cross for just you but for everyone. Quit being a lover of self. It isn't about you. It is about SERVING JESUS AND REACHING THE LOST!

Pulled two from the pit

2007-08-04T08:45:00.001-06:00

Tonight we rescued two from the pits of hell. Tonight the streets were packed. I knew that the devil was scared because as soon a people saw us they would walk the other way. Yesterday and today I have been walking in a whole new boldness. The Word of God has really came alive to me. It was alive to me before but it has really came alive to me.

When we approached the corner of 2nd and Central I saw two guys standing there, both drunk. I asked them if they were serving Jesus. One of them, Casey, looked at me and said whatever. Casey had a face of stone. He said that this world was hell. I let him know that earth doesn't even come close. I told Casey that without a personal relationship with JESUS CHRIST, that he was destined for an eternity in hell. He told me he was ready for that. I explained hell to him and let him know that he wasn't going to hell on my watch. I began preaching the Gospel and Casey's heart was pierced. Casey began telling me about the so-called Christians in his family. They can't help down the street but they send their check to a TV evangelist every week. I let Casey know that wasn't me. He said he knew that and that is why he continued to talk to us. I asked Casey if he was ready to give it all up and serve the Lord and show his family what a REAL CHRISTIAN is. He cried out to JESUS. As soon as he cried out, he sobered and began to laugh and smile. I continued to minister to Casey and let him know that being a Christian was to be Christ -Like. We told Casey he needed to get home and quit hanging around central. I told him a would take him home . When I said that the other guy standing next to Casey, completely sober, said what about me. I want out. I got it hot preaching to this guy, Darin , who gave his life to the Lord. He walked with us and we took him to the bus station and sent him home. Praise God for going before us and letting us reap a harvest for you Lord!

Back in Albuquerque

2007-08-03T02:29:00.001-06:00

We tore it up for the Kingdom tonight. Tonight was different than any other night in Albuquerque. Tonight on the streets We not only had RAVEN Deb as a special guest but we had a person very dear to my heart. Tonight my son Cole went out with us. Cesar Pozos also teamed up with us tonight. This brother has a lot going on in his life. I called him tonight to see if he wanted to go spread the Gospel on the streets. He told me well the way I Feel is if I want the Lord to bless My Life I need to be doing something for Him so I will be obedient and go. Amen It was also awesome to see the Lord at work in Cole's life. When we first got on the streets he told me Dad I'm Scared. I reminded him that the Lord hadn't given us a Spirit of Fear but Power, Love, and a Sound Mind and told him to say in Jesus Name I am not afraid. After that he let it go and wasn't afraid. He hung in there like a man. It was great to have him along.

One of the first group of people we approached I asked them all if they were SERVING JESUS. Only one guy answered saying I am trying to feed myself before I can help someone else. He started to walk off so I followed. I told him that he would always just be trying to feed himself, but only JESUS could truly feed him. I asked him if he wanted to be set free and he said YES. I told Kenneth that he just had to cry out to JESUS and he would be SAVED. The second I said cry, Kenneth began to pray the sinners prayer like no one I had ever heard before. I must say I stood there in awe. It was like he was filled with the Spirit as soon as he opened his mouth and said Lord. When Kenneth finished praying we continued to talk. He told me he was trying to get enough money so that him and some of the others could shower. I asked Kenneth to wait for me but when I returned I couldn't find him. I pray that the Lord keeps Kenneth safe, and I plead the Blood of Jesus over him. We ministered to many tonight.

One group that I walked up to and ask if they were serving the Lord, responded with Yes. Not unusual. many people answer Yes, but then you ask them how and they are usually quiet or say they go to church and pray. This group said Yes, we do good deeds.

Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.

I began preaching the Gospel. There were 5 of them only 1 walked off. The Gospel began piercing hearts as the Holy Spirit was speaking through me Alex, Anna, Dave and the other Girls name I didn't get. Stood planted, with their eyes open wide. Anna and Dave began to get tears in their eyes. I asked Anna if the Lord was speaking to her and she shook her head Yes. I told her she needed to make the cross around her neck mean something. We prayed with them and Alex said you don't realize some things until someone says wake up or presents it to you. I Pray that each one of them get into their Bibles and let the Lord speak to them more.

I thank you GOD for using me as your vessel tonight. In Jesus Name!

Out on the Streets in Albuquerque

2007-08-02T17:16:00.000-06:00

We will be out on the street tonight Thursday 2 August. We have a special guest joining us on the streets tonight. RAVENDeb has stopped by RAVEN sw on her journey to Daytona Beach. Please Pray for RAVENDeb, the devil has attacked her sinuses. That NOT going to stop us devil. We ARE going to the streets for the harvest.

Contact Pastor Brandon by phone or email if you are interested in Joining RAVENsw for winning souls tonight or any night.

New Family of the same puzzle

2007-07-30T09:40:00.001-06:00

I don’t know if it is just me, but in the past I felt like a puzzle piece that didn’t belong to the puzzle being put together, or maybe the piece that looks like it will fit but there is that one corner that is too big or small. I’m sure most Christians feel that way in the world. I felt that way even around other Christians. It is mostly because most Christians I was around said they were on fire for the Lord, but there wasn’t even smoke. I refer to these individuals as, “jelly-fish” Christians (spineless Christians) that will talk the talk but will never take a step to walk the walk. They will try to tell you exactly what you want to hear. Mostly of the time the talk that they are talking isn’t even their own. It is something they heard on the radio, in the four walls, a commentary or some other random place. These people say they know the Lord but have never gotten into the WORD to truly know Him. So basically they know of Him or know what someone has told them, NOT truly know the Lord.

When I went to my first RAVEN Mardi gras in 06 I was blown away. There were more people just like me, more people that were on FIRE for the Lord. These people just didn’t talk the talk they dressed, acted, and lived the walk. This is exactly what I was praying for. These brothers and sisters were from all over the nation from the East Coast to the West Coast. Some drove 1000s of miles to unite to spread the Gospel others flew for hours. I met so many different people that were so full of the Lord and Spiritually fit, it was awesome. What an opportunity the Lord let me experience. To work with other brothers and sister with the same mind/goals, Preaching the Gospel and Spreading the Love of Jesus Christ. This changed my life forever. I was never the same after that experience. I didn’t want to leave that place. I wanted to stay with my newly met brothers and sisters.

When I returned to Albuquerque it was back to dealing with the “jelly-fish.” It didn’t get me down like it did in the past. I pressed on continuing to pray for more in my area that shared a common goal/mind.

May 06 there was a men’s RAVEN gathering called “Boot Camp in the Big Apple.” This was a time that I was able to fellowship with other men that I hadn’t seen since Mardi Gras and get to know some that I really hadn’t spent time with. It was such a blessing to be able to work with these men of God. During this Boot Camp I became good friends with Johnny T of RAVEN Amarillo. This brother is such a blessing he doesn’t even have to say a word to make you smile. I Thank God for Johnny T. During the balloon fiesta in Albuquerque Johnny T brought his youth group to work with me Spreading the Gospel. What an answer to Prayer! Johnny T didn’t live close enough that we could get together every weekend but close enough to minister together on occasion.

November was the first annual gathering of RAVENs. This was a great time of fellowship, where we all stayed in the same hotel so we were able to spend some quality time together. When we are out on the streets it is sometime hard to get to know the people you are working with. You know that they Love Jesus and want to share his Love, but sometimes that is the extent of it. The gathering was great time to hang out with my brothers and sisters.

This February, My wife and I attended the RAVEN Mardi gras. This trip I truly felt like I knew most of the people I was ministering with. Things were very smooth all the pieces fit. We would minister together and not skip a beat. When one would stop the other would pick up, never skipping a beat, just like a well oiled machine. It was such a blessing to have my Best Friend, My Wife on the streets with me. I think she was a little blown away at first, but she didn’t let that stop her from ministering. I saw some of the RAVEN youth explode on the streets, what an inspiration! It is very disturbing to me that a 14 or 15 year old has more passion, compassion and obedience than some Adults that have supposedly been serving the Lord for years, you better check yourself. It was hard for me to leave this Mardi gras. This ministry time was different than any other in the past. When I left this Mardi gras I wasn’t going home as I had always in the past. My company was sending me to Delaware following Mardi gras for 2 months (God sent me). I had spoken to Pastor Sam and Lucy of RAVEN east coast and they invited me to come stay at their house and join them for outreach if I could.

Where I was going to be in Delaware wasn’t that far from Pastor Sam and Lucy. When I had established my work schedule in DE, I made arrangements with Pastor Sam to come hang out for the weekend and minister with them. I had never really had the chance to sit down with them and get to know who they were. We had talked in the past but never really knew them. This first weekend was a blast; we hit the streets hard Friday night and Saturday Preaching the Gospel. What a time I had with Pastor Sam and Lucy and the East Coast team Each and every one of them were true servants of Christ. It was great to spend time with the East Coast crew. At the end of the weekend Pastor Sam said if you’re not busy next weekend we would love to have you back. The following weekend I took him up on his offer. I had an even better time serving the Lord than the week before. This trip I spent time with George driving to pick up bread. RAVEN EC drives every Saturday from Hanover PA to Harrisburg PA to pick up loaves of bread to pass out to the less fortunate. Not only do they pass out the bread but also pass out the Bread of Life, Jesus Christ.

During my time in Delaware the Lord made it possible for me to go to Elkhart, Indiana.

I was able to spend time ministering with a dear brother in the Lord, Pastor Terry Shuff. He is another brother from the same puzzle. We ministered at a place called Louie and Kelly’s. We encountered many that said they were Christians. Many that said they were serving the Lord. There must have been a Bible study in that bar that we weren’t invited to. Pastor Terry and I were calling all these “bootleggers” out. One guy was dressed and acted like a pimp complete with the girl at his side. This guy had conflicting stories going on, because he came out of the bar acting like a pimp with a big Cross hanging off of his neck. I jumped at this opportunity to call this guy out. His story was he was tying to coattail his way into Heaven. He told me that his dad was a minister and some others in his family worked in and for the church. I let him know that there was no getting to Heaven for those reasons. He needed a personal relationship with Jesus Christ to get to Heaven. I returned to Delaware and continued to spend my weekends in Hanover PA with Pastor Sam and Lucy.

Some time in April Pastor Sam and Lucy announced that RAVEN EC would be having the first annual RAVEN EC Evangelism Boot camp. I knew I had to be there I had told the kids on Maple Street, that broke me, that I would be back. Also, I wanted to help Pastor Sam and Lucy with what ever I could. What a great time for the Lord we had. People were set free from different things that kept them in chains, many were healed of different ailments, and many Repented and Gave their Lives to the Lord. HALLELUJAH! Serving God is so much fun! Pastor Sam and Lucy took me to the airport and I must say it was harder to leave this time than before. As I waited to take off for the flight to Albuquerque my phone rang and it was my manager. He says would you mind going to Delaware for a week? I told him no if that is what I need to do then I was willing. So I flew home for a week and then back to Delaware.

This time in Delaware is exactly what I needed. My company extended my time here (they think it was them, but I know it was God keeping me here a little longer!) so I have been able to spend 3 weeks with Pastor Sam and Lucy, instead of just one. Pastor Sam and Lucy are such a blessing to me!!!!!!!!!! It is not very often that you meet people that could finish a sentence for you, give you a look to hold a conversation, or just say your name and you know exactly what they are talking about. This is what it is like for me with Pastor Sam and Lucy. Being around them I see the true definition of “Christ like.” They walk in Love each and every day they would go with out something to see that someone else is provided for. They pick up their cross daily and follow Christ. They hide nothing, what you see it what you get. They will tell you how it is, because of the Love they have. Being on Fire for The Lord is an understatement for this family. They are a smoldering inferno for The Lord. Pastor Sam is the brother that I never had. I Love being in the trenches with this brother. Lucy is always there to pick me up or pierce me with the Word. I know that when she speaks I better listen because it is from the Lord. Sometimes it isn’t what I want to hear but it is truly from God. Both Pastor Sam and Lucy speak what the Lord puts on their hearts, I Love being in the trenches with them. I Love being in the trenches with any of the EC team. Each and every one of them has been trained up in the Lord. I haven’t ministered with Josh, Pastor Sam and Lucy’s son but I know that I would Love it if he is anything like his mom or dad. Pastor Sam and Lucy have a daughter name Megan (wrong spelling I’m sure) that has a heart the size of Texas. She is one of the youth I described earlier. She has no fear, but that of the Lord. The apple hasn’t fallen far from the tree. This young lady is such a blessing and inspiration. I pray more youth get the fire like Meg (lil ticker). I could go on for days talking about Pastor Sam and Lucy I Love them so much. THANK YOU LORD FOR GIVING ME THE OPPORTUNITY TO SPEND TIME AND GET TO KNOW SUCH GREAT AND OBIDENT PEOPLE, I LOVE YOU PASTOR SAM AND LUCY AND ALL OF THE EAST COAST FAMILY. I know that we are joined in spirit, but it brings tears to my eyes to have to leave them. I am excited to get home to my Wife, Son, Unborn baby and the Lords work in Albuquerque. I pray that my days are few and not far between until I see my East Coast family again. I LOVE YOU RAVEN EAST COAST!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My RAVEN East Coast Family

Off of the Beaten Path

2007-07-25T08:40:00.001-06:00

As humans we react to life in the area of least resistance, our comfort zone. On 6 July this was the case for Brad (a 14 year old that Loves Jesus) and myself. When we go out on the streets we usually start ministering at the bus station walk a block up 1^st street and then proceed up central.

As we left the bus station, off of the beaten path came to me. I didn’t understand what this meant. We came to Central and I told Brad, “Let’s keep going straight tonight, when I am here during the day there is usually a lot of homeless hanging out over there.”

While we were waiting on the light I saw two young guys, who looked lost (in the since of direction), walking toward the corner we were walking to. When we crossed the street we met them about 10 feet from the corner. As we passed I said, “You guys serving Jesus?” They took two steps and one of them turned and said, “What did you just say.” They came back to the corner and I repeated myself.

The one who asked me what I had said started giving me scriptures to try to justify his actions trying to give me the “once saved always saved” (WHAT A LIE FROM THE PITS OF HELL!) line but he didn’t believe what he was saying anymore than I did. I started preaching the Gospel to him and he said, “stop, don’t say anymore, the Holy Spirit is convicting me enough right now.” You could see it in his eyes.

We introduced ourselves at this time; their names were Daniel and Henry. They were Marines who had walked away from God. They told me I wouldn’t understand their situation or what they had been through. Henry tells me you don’t know how much I needed to hear what you are saying; I prayed last night that God would send me a sign so I would know that he was still there.

I asked them both if they believed in divine appointments. They both said, “Yes,” so I asked, “what do you think is?” Both of them were blown away, the Spirit took hold of both of them as they stood in amazement. Daniel started telling me his story. When he was finished I told them my testimony. God delivered me from all the trash I was caught up in, He can do the same for anyone who is willing.

I could see the tears in Daniels eyes he turned around and walked a few steps to hide the tears. I began ministering to Henry at this time he kept saying you don’t know how much I needed to hear this. Daniel came back and started asking what church I went to. I told him I didn’t have a building to go to on Sunday; because I was the Church the building is just a gathering place. He asked me for my phone number because they had to go, so I gave it to him.

We went our way they went theirs. Brad and I continued on the path the Lord had set before us. We ministered to several others and made our way to the truck several hours later. As we came to the truck, there were 3 guys in a car parked next to us. As we got closer they got out and tried to hide. One poked his head out from the corner they tucked themselves into and said hi. I said, “Hi, are you serving Jesus?” He answered me with, “You want some, you want to get high.” We were high on Jesus, didn’t want, need, or desire a substitute.

All three of them came over and we began preaching the Gospel. One of the guys was Asian and what made me laugh is the other two stereotyped him and said he was buddhist. John agreed with them I guess to make them happy because after a few minutes talking to him he didn’t know what he believed, the funniest part is he didn’t believe anything about buddhism.

As I was talking to John, Brad was tearing the other two up with the Word. Usually I would jump in with Brad. This time I realized I didn’t need to do that, he had the Word. At this time I truly understood the meaning of, Off the Beaten Path. We all need to step out of our comfort zone and let The Lord do his thing. We are the vessels, the tools that he uses. We need to stop trying to control and be controlled.

We need to let go and Let God.

2007-07-14T21:30:00.001-06:00

RAVEN NEW ORLEANS XII

Mardi Gras Outreach

February 1-5, 2008

Many people (Christians) wait until the last minute to pray about what they should do or where they should go. Why not PRAY now so that you will be ready to GO THEN? I have heard many people call their own lack of preparation, "God closing the door."

The BIBLE says, "I (Jesus) have set before you an OPEN door." Rev. 3:8 I don;t know who is closing your doors but it certainly is not Jesus! His doors into the Harvest Fields are all standing WIDE OPEN and awaiting labors who are willing to go!

We need you on the TEAM that is FULFILLING THE DREAM in 2008! We are believing God for an outpouring in the French Quarter and on Bourbon Street of the Holy Spirit as His servants take the message of the Gospel to the streets of that City.

Contact: Pastor Troy for details on coming or on bringing a group from your church or ministry. Raven@BigGrace.com (504) 202-0939

From Recent Ministry Trip To East Coast

2007-07-05T20:36:00.001-06:00

I WANT JESUS

2007-05-06T20:35:00.000-06:00

What a great night on the streets. People were a lot more responsive to the Word last night than ever before, Hallelujah. We ministered too many, but one man screamed out to me the most, Chris Charlie. We stopped on a corner and there he was squatted down eating a hot dog. I asked him if he was serving Jesus. He stood up and said, “ I pray to my mom everyday, she passed away a year and a half ago.” I told him praying to his mom wasn’t going to get him to heaven, cause there is no coat tailing into Heaven , each one of us are held accountable and the ONLY way to get in to Heaven is Repent for your sins and have a Personal Relationship with JESUS CHRIST. He started telling me that he was going to hell and he didn’t care. I let him know that he wasn’t going on my watch. I kept Preaching the Gospel in to this brother. He started mumbling and rambling more nonsense. He stopped and looked at me and said, “Why are you getting mad?” I let the brother know I wasn’t mad just concerned and wasn’t going to let him settle with going to hell. He grabbed me, hugged me and began to weep. He told me that he just wanted someone to tell him what life was all about and be real with him. I was real with him; Repent turn away from his sins and Live for the Lord. I gave Chris my phone number and told him to call me whenever he wanted to. I told Chris I had to go I had more work to do. Chris looked at me and said he didn’t want to let us go, so I asked him what he wanted to do. He said, “Go with You.” I invited him to walk with us. As we walked I continued to drop the Word on him. When we would minister to others he would stand there and listen. In about 30 minutes Chris’s demeanor changed he began to apologize for using foul language and went from being extremely intoxicated to sober. He asked if I would come pick him up for church but he couldn’t make it this Sunday but next Sunday he would. We walked Chris home so I would know where to pick him up. We should outside of his house and continued dropping the Word on him. I asked him if I could pray for him and he said yes. I new the Lord was working in him cause he was covered in tears and hugged me and would not let go. Before I left I told Chris that soon he would be walking the streets with me Preaching the Gospel.
I know with all my heart this was a divine appointment. Chris told me he usually doesn’t have Saturdays off but for some reason he took this one off. He was going to take off last Friday but decided not to for no reason. JESUS IS THAT REASON, He had Cinco de Mayo plans for Chris. We went out with EXPECTANCY last night and God showed up and showed out.
As I was driving to church I called my Mom to tell her about last night. As we were talking my phone beeped, I lost my Mom and Chris was on the line. He says, “I want to thank you for praying for me and I WANT JESUS. I have straightened out my life but I want him to straighten it out the right way. I have a lot of things going on in my life and I know He can help.” I wanted to jump up and down. Chris said he wanted to meet sometime to talk.

Join Us In NYC May 24-28

2007-04-22T16:40:00.000-06:00

Walking down a busy street one night the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart, “What would you do if a young woman ran from one of these buildings and she was on fire?” I quickly responded, “I would do whatever it took to put her out.” Immediately the voice of the Lord came back at me, “THEY ARE ALL ON FIRE!”
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That experienced happened to me years ago, but it is often brought back to my memory when I think of the task that the Lord Jesus has set before us: “To deliver the lost and dying from the horrors of an eternal hellish torment.” The ONLY thing that can extinguish what may now appear to be the “invisible” flames of this final judgment is the preaching of the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ to a generation engulfed in the incendiary sins of this life.
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Isaiah the Prophet said in Chapter 5:14, “Therefore hell hath enlarged herself, and opened her mouth beyond measure.” Yet a chapter later when the Lord of Hosts Himself sought someone who would enter the blazing inferno of rebellion to offer the flame-quenching “Water of the Word” he said, “Here I am, send me.”
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On almost a daily basis we are called “into the flames” because there is a person “on fire.” They represent someone’s son or daughter, a wayward spouse, or that innocent enough looking neighbor. While the spiritual “accelerant” may differ in each of their cases, they are still being rapidly consumed by hells firestorm. But WE are the Fire Fighters of the Most High God!
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May 24-28 we are once again taking a team of “Smoke Jumpers” into the streets of America’s largest city: New York City – Population 12,000,000. A “Smoke Jumper” is a termed used by the Forestry Department for firefighters who risk life and limb to leap from airplanes into the midst raging wildfires. Satan sees these millions of souls as mere “kindling” for the fires of hell, but we see them as branches needing to be grafted into the ‘Tree of Life.”
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Perhaps you would like to “Jump With Us” next month? This outreach is open to all believers who would dare answer the call to do “whatever it takes to put them out.” The basic cost of the outreach is $125 per person. That will cover a place to sleep for (4) nights and your very own outreach team t-shirts. You will need to arrange for your own transportation to the city, purchase a subway pass, and your meals on the streets. (Email me with any questions or for more details)
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Maybe you cannot “Jump” yourself, but would like to sponsor a “Firefighter” to go as your representative? You can give to this cause by sending your tax-deductible gift to:
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Raven Ministries International
P.O. Box 1897
Daytona Beach, Fl 32115
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Or by donating online with a credit/debit card or electronic check by going to www.BigGrace.com (our main website) and clicking in the "Make A Donation" button and followin the easy instructions to make a secure online donation.
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We have seen the Holy Spirit douse the flames upon hundreds of lives on the streets of New York City and are expectant of seeing many more snatched from the jaws of hell this year too. Can you join us? Can you help?
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Blessings,
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Pastor Troy D. Bohn
International Director

A lot of Miles with the Lord

2007-03-29T19:05:00.000-07:00

What an awesome weekend! Friday I arrived in South Bend and it was on. Pastor Terry drove me around to show me different places RAVEN Mid West ministers. What an area RAVEN MW has to cover. After the tour it was time to go to work. We went to a place called Louie’s and hung out in the parking lot, taking the gospel to whoever came near our pulpit.

De 11:24 Every place whereon the soles of your feet shall tread shall be yours:

We ministered to over a hundred lost souls. Many people told us they were serving the Lord and as we spoke the word of the Lord to them the conviction set in. Many walked as fast as they possibly could to get away from the sword.

Heb 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any
two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit,
and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and
intents of the heart.

Some were stopped in their tracks. A Hispanic guy walked by and I asked him if he knew Jesus Christ. The Spirit came upon him and he was frozen. He told me he could not really speak English, I told him I really couldn't speak spanish. The Lord gave me the words in Spanish that he needed to hear.

John 14:10 "Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me?
The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the
Father who dwells in Me does the works.

The words the Lord gave me pierced his heart. He didn’t know what happened to him. He looked light a deer in headlights. As a began to speak the Gospel to him he said, “I want that.” He then gave his life to the Lord.

Saturday, we woke up and hit it once again. Pastor Terry took me to breakfast at six mile curve, which is in an Amish community. This was interesting to me as this is the first time I have ever experienced the Amish. And just goes to prove there are lost souls everywhere, not just going to strip clubs or liquor establishments. There are lost souls working the farm land of Indiana. With that said there are even lost souls sitting next to you in church living the religious life being pew warmers.

Why is it so hard for people, Jesus hung on the Cross for our sins and people can't live their lives sold out for him? I always hear that lame excuse, "Thats not my calling," That is EVERYONES calling. Its called being SAVED. I guess everything the devil put in their lives is more important than serving The LORD, the Alpha and Omega, Beginnning and The End.

Saturday night Pastor Troy and other RAVEN soldiers joined us in pushing the front lines back. I was able to speak at a church called EL Divino Redemor. The Lord had me share to them that they needed to set the standards. As Christian we need to set the standard the world lives by not the other way around.

John 17:16 "They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world”
Jer 50:2 Declare ye among the nations, and publish, and set up a standard;

Sunday, Pastor Troy preached at the Potters House of Deliverance, in South Bend. The Lord brought the fire through PT. As soon as PT finished Preaching it was off to Chi town in a RAVEN caravan. I was able to fellowship with Pastor Lance (PSP), Leigh, and the boys. I had never really been able to spend time with them until the trip. They are awesome people and I Love Them. I Think the Twins need to move to Albuquerque and join RAVEN SW. That would be great.
Pastor Troy preached at a church in Chi town called Metro Praise. Once again the Lord showed up and showed out. What more could a Pastor asked for than a church of on fire teens and young adults that is what Pastor Joe has. After PT delivered the message of the Lord He called the RAVEN Elders up to Pray for who ever needed it. The only prayer request that anyone had was to be more radical for the Lord, How great is that. We left the church and went to eat.

After eating I went outside to get some air and a man walked by. I prayed Lord if you want me to talk to him stop him. I hadn’t even finished and the Lord stopped him. He turned and looked right at me, like you asked so come deliver the message. I walked up to him and introduced myself. His name was Johnny and he ask if I worked at the restaurant because he was hungry. I yelled to Pastor Terry and Pastor Troy overheard and came over and spoke the Gospel to Johnny. Johnny was and alcoholic and trapped by drugs. A pastor had mad promises to Johnny that would had probably turned out to be empty promises. PT told Johnny of the promise of eternal life.

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son
that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
Mt 10:39 "He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My
sake will find it.

Johnny took a knee right where he stood and gave his life to the Lord. When he got up he poured out his 40 of old e cuz he was representing GOD.

We returned to Pastor Terry’s house about 0330 and slept for a few hours. Monday morning we got out of bed and got ready for the day the Lord had made. We were to be on The Harvest Show at 0900, ya not a whole lot of sleep.

The Harvest Show was a great time to praise God. We were able to talk about the things the Lord had and was doing, that we had been part of. Until the show I never knew 1 person could talk for 9 min on one breath, but PT did it. (jk)

All I can say about all of this is I serve an awesome God and I thank you Father for letting me be part of your work. I praise your HOLY NAME LORD GOD.

Doing the work of the Lord is so AWESOME

2007-03-21T21:28:00.000-07:00

The Lord NEVER ceases to amaze me. Tonight I had the opportunity to meet some new Brothers and Sisters in Christ, at New Beginnings Church in Toughkenamon, PA. Pastor Jim and Anita Peper have started a sold out for the Lord church. They have set out to do the work of the Lord no matter what the cost. Pastor Jim and the congregation understand that the church doesn’t belong in 4 walls; it belongs in the community taking the Gospel to the Streets. Pastor Jim is a long time friend of Pastor Tim (My Pastor in NM)

As soon as I entered the building I could feel the presence of the Lord. Pastor Jim showed me around the building the Lord has given them and told me of the opportunities the Lord has placed before them. New Beginnings Church is starting a Day Care in their building. How great is that, speak the Gospel into Children at an early age.

De 6:5 "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and
with all your strength.
6 "And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart.
7 "You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit
in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise
up.

Pr 22:6 ¶ Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart
from it

Pastor Jim allowed me to introduce the vision of RAVEN to the church. Each member wanted to be part of the ministry. They all have a heart for taking the Gospel to a Lost and Dying World. Big Things are happening in Pennsylvania aka Pennsly-tucky. I thank the Lord Jesus Christ for letting me be part.
The Church has teamed up with Me / RAVEN. They have made a commitment to become monthly financial partners, Hallelujah.

Thank you Lord, and Thank you New Beginnings Church for being True and Faithful Servants of the Lord.

When the Lord spoke U-N-I-T-Y to me I never knew he would show me what he meant in this way.

2007-03-21T21:24:00.000-07:00

Reporting For Duty

2007-03-19T16:49:00.000-07:00

In the historic battle fields of Pennsylvania a revolution is underway. It started several years back when a Sold Out for Jesus couple, with a vision of bringing lost souls to the Lord said, “Yes Lord we will.” We will put on the armor and fight to see that no man or woman goes to Hell. We will sell out for your sake Lord. We will train the Holy Warriors that you send us. We will train up our children in your ways. We will do what ever it is that you ask of us. We will work out of our comfort zone. We will fight the good fight of Faith no matter what the cost.

This weekend I was blessed to be able to join the revolution in Pennsylvania. The moment I arrived Pastor Sam said it is Go Time. We were on are way to the front lines.
I joined RAVEN East Coast in spreading the Love of Jesus through a community called Fireside. This is a poverty stricken community where the devil is trying to put people out on the streets, rent/mortgages are high and incomes are low. RAVEN East Coast is showing this community that there is Hope and Love and His name is Jesus Christ. RAVEN East Coast has such a relationship with this community it is beautiful. While most people or even most Christians were inside staying warm RAVEN East Coast and myself were pushing forward in this revolution, working in the frigid temperatures. While out on the streets Pastor Sam began talking to two men they were telling him their stories and He began hitting them with the Gospel.
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Heb 4:12 For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

These two men began to cry out to Jesus, and Pastor Sam led them to the Lord, Hallelujah. Praise God that Pastor Sam was on the front lines and not enjoying the comfort of his heated home.

We left Fireside and went to a place called “The Jungle” it is called this because of the chaos that goes on in this neighborhood. Pastor Sam said, “people around there say this is a place that if you’re not from the neighborhood you don’t go to that neighborhood.” Guess what devil, where going in, we’re pushing the front lines back, we’re taking over!

2Ti 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

The devil has put so much fear in these people they are afraid to open their doors. I talked to one family of Believers and they said you just don’t open your door because you never know what is going to happen on this street. I bind that spirit of fear, and claim these two communities for the Lord in Jesus’ Name.

I pray that more people step out of the comfort zone, quit making excuses, set aside the distractions; the game controllers, the TV remote, the headphones, or what ever is taking the Lords time and join the Revolution. I pray for more “We will” people, Christians who will quit running from the call.

Each and every one of us should be on the front lines. Everyone should be feeding on the word daily preparing for battle getting firmly rooted and well established in Faith. Each of us needs to suit up in the armor and prepare ourselves. This Revolution isn’t just in Pennsylvania its Global. You are being called for duty, Will you answer? Or are you screening your calls?

I Thank the Lord for allowing me to spend time with Pastor Sam, Lucy and RAVEN East Coast. Thank you RAVEN East Coast for having me it was a blessing! I Love You All!

2006-12-31T18:34:00.000-07:00

This is from the September Newsletter as it says below, from Pastor Troy of RAVEN Ministries International. I feel a need to distribute this once more. I am bothered by “The Purpose Driven Life,” in all the churches here in Albuquerque/Rio Rancho. It seems that the Pastors of the churches that I have visited have based their teachings on this book. We were given a book, (not just any book, The Bible is the Word of God), many years ago to tell us how to live. This is the Book teachings should be based on. Why is it now in this day and age we need a man to write a book to tell us how to live as Christians? Why not just let the Spirit guide and seek the face of God daily. Then another book isn’t needed. Take the Bible literally and the Lord will give instructions. I always hear people talk about revival, but not doing anything to start a revival. It doesn’t take much, start by asking the Lord to set your priorities up according with His Will. The next step is just doing it. It doesn’t take hundreds or thousands of dollars, just open your mouth and let the Spirit speak through you. We were all Given a Purpose now let’s come together and line our hearts up with the Word of God and our Minds up with Gods Will. As you read through this newsletter pray that the Lord would speak to you and reveal himself to you. If you read through this and disagree that we weren’t Blessed with The Purpose Given Life, e-mail me and tell me why you disagree.
RAVEN MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL
September Newsletter
"The Purpose Given Life"
Acts 26:16-18
Acts26:16 But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee; 17 Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, 18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. (KJV)

I can almost see Paul the Apostle as he stood before King Agrippa and began to give his powerful testimony of coming face-to-face with the blinding presence of the Lord Jesus Christ as he journeyed on the road to Damascus that day.

1 Corinthians 6:20
1Corinthians 6:20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. (KJV)

To be bought speaks of surrendering title, deed, and ownership of something to the purchaser. Once bought the owner can exercise any decision relative to his property. If it be piece of land; he builds what he desires. If it be a vehicle; he drives it to his choice of destinations.

Acts 20:28
Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. (KJV)

Speaking of the “the church of God, which he hath purchased with His own blood.”
When ownership is transferred through the free will of a person and the exercise of faith towards God— then the rights of ownership are acquired by the purchasing party who then has all rights to determine how and what this acquisition will be utilized.
While we are not under bondage to any law—Jesus has established the one true reason or purpose in offering up the ultimate price for you and I.
So if we have established that we have transferred ownership of our lives to Jesus Christ and as a result of this spiritual transfer we are then instructed on how we should live—–then what is the purpose that we have been given to?
Our text reveals the answer: “to make you a minister and a witness” Why? “in order to turn them from darkness to light.”
Just because that was the purpose in which Paul was given to, does that mean we have been given the same purpose? There is a good way to find out! Let’s look in the Bible!

In 1 Corinthians 11:1 he makes the statement, “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.”

Another translation reads, “Imitate me as I imitate Jesus Christ.”

The American Heritage Dictionary offers up these definitions of the word imitate.

To use or follow as a model
To copy the actions, mannerisms, or speech of
To copy exactly; to reproduce

That last one sure hits home! Seeing that we were created in His image and likeness and are His offspring created or reproduced by His Spirit.

We are then told by Paul to “be a copy of Him” in the way that he was given to be a “copy of Jesus.” What was it that Jesus was given for then?
Jesus Himself answered that question for us when He said in:

Luke 4:18-19
Lu 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, 19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord. 20 And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him. (KJV)

Jesus certainly made it easy to see the reason that He came or for what purpose in which He was given:
To Preach the Gospel!

Now THAT is as simple as it gets.
Related Texts:

Luke 19:10
Luke 19:10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost. (KJV)

John 3:17
John 3:17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (KJV)
The words of Jesus in these verses and the testimony of Paul before King Agrippa are an echo of one another and our lives and purpose should be the continuation of that exact same echo.

“The Spirit of the Lord” was upon Jesus to anoint Him to preach the Gospel.

Now consider this:

Romans 8:11
Ro 8:11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. {by: or, because of} (KJV)

Does the same Spirit that indwells Jesus dwell in you? If it does then you have been anointed and given to one purpose according to the Word of God—to bring people into His Kingdom through the sharing of the Word of God with them.

I gave a man a car one time and a few months later he called to see if I would mind him giving it to someone else. I said, “I gave it to you to do whatever you want to do with it. It’s yours.”

Why is it that we “give Jesus our lives” and then spend the remainder of our years telling Him what He needs to do with His property! I think the problem is that too few actually have signed over their lives to him and embraced the purpose given to us. We’ve instead loaned it to Him with the hope that He would carry the insurance and somehow accept responsibility without authority.
“But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.” “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” That is the Purpose Given to Him and by extension—the same purpose given to all who would be followers of Christ.

I John 4:1
1Jo 4:1 ¶ Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. (KJV)

There are mimics and there are imposters. There are the purpose driven and there are the purpose given. Which one will you be?
Matthew 28:19-20 "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

The Grass Withers

and The Flowers Fade

BUT

THE WORD OF GOD

STANDS

FOREVER

Isaiah 40:8

Gathering of RAVENs

2006-10-24T21:08:00.000-06:00

What a Weekend! This week I have wanted to blog about the four days in Amarillo, but it has been hard to put it in to words. It was awesome to see the other teams show up from other places. Black shirts everywhere what a site. Friday night was great I didn't expect that many people to attend the banquet. I thought there would be around 100, but the number was around 200. Being able to see and hear what God is doing around the nation was great! I had fun fellowshipping with the brothers and sisters from the area. Some were family that I hadn't seen in awhile or had never met. Dinner was served but I don't think any of the teams ate, because we all went to IHOP after the banquet. I have to say that was one of the best times I have ever had at IHOP. Christie and I were able to spend time with my Brother and Sister Pastor Johnnie and Lori T. I Love those two, I could go on for hours about them.
Saturday Morning Pastor Johnnie T and I got off to an early start. We went to his store to cook biscuits and get the other things needed for breakfast. I Love to spend the time serving my brothers and sisters, it brings me so much joy. The brothers of River Road were great they prepared an excellent meal. The Lord served the dessert through Pastor Don Eskine (RAVEN Gulf Coast). That brother can tear it up he has an annoiting to deliver the word.
The Whole day was just amazing! We heard testimonies from different brothers and sisters .
Saturday Night was another one of those times that can't really be put in to words. Four brothers and myself were ordained and JESUS was in the House! Serving the Lord is an awesome time. From the first day I was saved it has been a experience like no other. The Lord poured out his spirit on me during the Ordination Service like no other. It was such a blessing having My Mom there to share in this great step in my life. She is such a Blessing, I have to thank God for my Praying Mom. Many of you know that Pastor Troy and Pastor Todd are my uncles. I am so thankful for each of them also.

I know there were more than My Mom and Two Uncle praying for me as a grew up and resisted the Lord. Ecclesiastes 4:12 comes to life for me, because I believe this is what the Lord is saying. This is why we must continue to pray and have faith. We don't know when God will answer our prayers but when he does it will be a great thing. Once again I want to Thank God for a PRAYING FAMILY.

Ec 4:12 And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken

RAVEN SW Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

2006-10-15T20:09:00.000-06:00

My Brother Pastor Johnnie T. This brother can bring a smile to your
face without saying a word. He is a true man of God. Pastor J T has a serious annoiting on his life.

My sister Lori T, the Lord knew how to complete Pastor Johnnie T she is a ray of sunshine. Pastor Lori is a great woman of God.

What a blessing this brother is. Tank is not only a blessing because of his mechanical skills. He showed me the true meaning of a servant. He put his cares and needs aside to assure the bus was trustworthy. He spent the majority of his time preparing the bus for the trip home. This brother was in the bus, under the bus, and all over the bus. I believe we need more brothers and sisters like Tank willing to go above and beyond the call of duty.

The team showed up around 1100 pm. We finally got everyone situated aound 100 am. We had the team up by 500 to get to the fiesta. When we showed up at the fiesta I think everyone was overwhelmed by the amount of people and the number of balloons on the field. As we split up and began to minister the balloons began their ascent. This was a totally different scene than we were accustomed to. There wasn't any addicts, drunks, or any of the usual lost and hurting. These people were dry and weren't interested in conversation. Most of the conversation was from church members that wanted to know what we were doing. We gathered the team around team and came back to the house for fellowship and to eat. During this time Pastor JT and myself recieved some Godly counsel from Pastor Troy. We returned to the fiesta around 500pm and the Lord started to work as soon as I parked my truck. One of the parking attendants came up next to my truck and The Spirit began to move . I was able to minister to this brother. He had just moved from Europe with the Air Force. This brother was hungry he gave me his number and said he and his wife would like to come to church with us. The Spirit was moving on everyone I came in contact with. There was a lady named "C" she was driving a Golf cart around the premises, somewhat like a taxi. I jumped on with her and took a cruz. C said she needed to her what I told her, I let her know it was all Jesus. What an awesome God we serve.
Johnnie T, Lori, Tank, and all of the YOUTH Group I Love You!

Welcome from International Director: Pastor Troy D. Bohn

2006-10-14T13:31:00.000-06:00

I would like to personally welcome Pastor Brandon and Christy Romero as our directors of Raven Ministries Southwest operating out of the Albuquerque, New Mexico region. Having literally known Pastor Brandon all of his life, and seeing him grow and mature into an outstanding man of faith--I am extemely blessed and expectant of the tremendous things that the Lord Jesus is going to be doing through this urban mission chapter in the Southwest United States!

Raven Ministries Interational is a "mission" organization. Our MISSION is simply to take the message of hope, love, deliverance and salvation to a lost and dying world. All of our missionaries and chapters are all self-supported by your generous and sacrifical gifts to the ministry of reaching people for Jesus.

Raven is neither "un-denominational" or "non-denominational." We prefer to be CROSS-Denominational; wherein we work in cooperation with those in the Body of Christ who have put their faith in Christ alone for their salvation. We stand with the Apostle Paul who said, "I am determined to know nothing else but Jesus Christ and Him crucified." 1 Cor. 2:2

Our heart and commitment is to Jesus Christ, and our passion is to see as many people as possible have the same opportunity that was have been graced to have had. If you are in the Albuquerque area and your heart is to reach this area for Jesus--we would love to stand together with you in the Harvest Field of Souls! Contact Pastor Brandon & Christy today and let them know that you would like to join them or to have them come and speak at your church, special event, Sunday school or civic group--or just need their assistant in helping to reach your community or neighborhood. They are here to serve.

You can get additional information regarding Raven International by visiting our website at www.BigGrace.com or by looking at our News Site at www.ravenoutreach.blogspot.com

May God richly bless you for His Glory!

Pastor Troy D. Bohn

Director Raven International

PastorTroy@BigGrace.com

(386)685-4141