Gulfport, Mississippi 2013

  This was the 4^th and final stop in the State of Mississippi.  The New Year began and like my birthday last week I celebrated.  There was no fanfare rather a quiet jubilee at the prospect of being blessed with more time to lift up Christ before men.  Don’t get me wrong I’m anxious to see JESUS as He is.  For now I hope to live long, honorably serving the One who died and rose again!  Amen.

  I had a great place to call home for the week. Not just a quiet place to park but great fellowship compliments of Pastor Rick Carter and the congregation of Bible Baptist Church.

Gulfport, MS along: The Journey 50 States One True Story JESUS!

  The scenery through Mississippi had left me to desire more and this stop delivered.  I enjoyed the view of the Gulf.  The white beach went on for miles and when the rays of light met the water they danced glistening with brilliance.  The canvas at sunset displayed remarkable blue water and colors in the sky that could not be reproduced by man.  Praise God!

  Throughout the week I enjoyed meeting and talking to many people.  Yet I have sorrow for most of them.  Because they do not know the One of whom their heart longs for.  I do, He is here and His name is JESUS!

  The burden was lightened while in worship and fellowship Sunday morning and evening. Thanks Bible Baptist Church for your commitment to win souls to Christ!  It is encouraging that you maintain reverence for God above all other things.  Thank you for receiving me in the love of Christ.  I was richly blessed.

  I enjoyed flying the banner of Jesus Christ throughout Gulfport, Biloxi and Christian Pass, MS.  The week was restful and the Lord provided more than my needs. As I continue along the Journey I ask for your continued prayer. 

  God willing I’ll write you again in about a week, rejoicing in what the Lord has done!  Amen.

Agape,  David

Gautier, Mississippi 2012

  Who would have thought that I’d spend Christmas here? Not me! I never even heard of Gautier. I arrived on Christmas Eve knowing and decided to take the ministry trailer to Wal-Mart. The plan was to play Christmas music in the parking lot until they closed at 8:00pm. When I arrived the place was packed and I was excited about the possibilities. Then I went inside and asked the manager’s permission. Well, so much for my brilliance. What happened to go and just do it? I’ve had the boldness in the past and it worked the vast majority of times. Of course on occasion I’ve been approached and asked to close up shop and I have. The good news is that I parked against the building between the two front doors and the graphics were at work until closing time. I Praise God for that as it may have been more effective than what I had in mind.

  As for Christmas Day it was very quiet. Later in the evening there was excitement as the sky darkened and tornadoes came nearby. Here’s  a short video of the excitement I wrote about and Merry Christmas 2012! 

 http://youtu.be/tw0ORFx3z9Q

  I set up home base at Crossroads Church of the Nazarene. The week was the most uneventful to date. I did not see anyone at the church until Sunday morning. But I was sure glad to see them then.

  During the week in Gautier on three separate occasions, I met Police Officers! Who approached to me and it was not long before I found out they were Christians. Basically I was told, to have at it in this town. Looking back I laugh at how I could say of Gautier, “the force was with me.” (hint: Star Wars, “may the force be with you”) The week did end well; I was blessed to attend evening worship service at Jesus Christ Baptist Church!

On the 3rd day the Son arose!

  This post is pretty short: the weeks pace was slow and the way a little lonely. Maybe next Christmas I will be with hometown family and friends. Notice I did not write, “I will be Home.” That’s because my home is with the Lord Jesus Christ. I praise the Lord that He is always with me!

  Once again, I sincerely thank all of you for the various ways you support me in the Lords work. I pray that we all would take into account how we use the gift of time. Considering that God, has granted to each of us a specific window. The bookends: our first breath and our last breath. As time passes it cannot be regained. Right now, is the only time that we know we have? So let us redeem the time, living to honor the One who died for us and then Rose again. Amen.

 Until next week God willing I may write to you again.  

          Agape, David

Mobile, Alabama 2012

  This week in Alabama completes the 14^th State of the 50 along, “The Journey 50 States One True Story JESUS!”  I was looking forward to coming to Mobile because Pastor Steve Lawson’s Church is here.  Over the past 5 years I had been encouraged by Steve’s expository preaching.  He challenges believers to bold, to go and to take a stand for Jesus Christ. No matter if you are the only one that will!  Some of you know that God has blessed me to do just that.  So, when I arrived in Mobile I made a beeline to Christ Fellowship Church.  Well, not everything works out the way I hope it will.  But the Lord is faithful in working all things for my good.

Merry Christmas! 2012 from David Banton

Later, Monday afternoon Pastor Charles Brown and the staff at Government Street Baptist Church welcomed me.  Throughout the week the fellowship there was sweet. 

Ministry in Mobile was limited.  I mean the pace was frantic, go, go, and go.  Besides driving in traffic and parking in places with high visibility not many would stop and talk.  So, on Tuesday and Friday I went door to door.  No one was rude and I think giving them a Christmas card and DVD helped.  

It was odd that throughout the week I only remember one person coming to me in joyful response to the, “Jesus Truck.” 

The Service on Sunday was great and the place packed.  At the end Pastor Charles said I want to introduce David to you, and then He motioned for me to come.  Glad I was awake and now wide awake!  Pastor said a few words and then asked me to close in prayer.  So the Holy Spirit gave me words to speak.  Not a conventional prayer but one for souls to receive the gift of God.  Looking back at this, there were several blessings.  First the Holy Spirit moved through me and the reason I say that is because; this happened spur of the moment and I was not anxious about the crowd or what I was to say.  Secondly, the pace of that week had been so fast and I was burdened not having the opportunity to talk to many people.  Well, there before me was a packed house whose hearts Pastor Charles had prepared! Praise God! Amen.

Later I was privileged to attend worship service and have fellowship with New Life Vietnamese Baptist Church.  The presentations by the children, guest singer, guest speaker and Rev. Phi Thuong Vo really brought the spirit of Christmas home to me.  Thank You!

In closing, God has been faithful to provide everything I had need of.  One of which was not easy to swallow and that was learning not to be so expectant of men.  Even those I have looked up to while God used them to increase my faith.  So by God’s hand I may be able to stand alone if it becomes necessary! 

Dear Saints in the Lord Jesus Christ, 

 My Greatest treasure is God’s Gift to me of Salvation and everything that entails!  The “Bestest Gifts” given me this year have come from You!  I cannot thank You enough for your Prayers; your Encouragement, your Gifts and your every Support. I know God has seen everything and that treasures are being stored up for each of You.        

  My fervent prayer is for God to bless “You” by the Increase of Your Faith, to Separate You even more from the things of the World, to Embolden You to Follow JESUS where so ever HE Wills!  Brethren we know God is more than able and that HE will give our Hearts to be Taken all the more by Jesus Christ!  Please entreat God concerning this.  Amen.

Until next week, God willing I write to you again.

Merry Christmas! 2012 by David Banton

      Merry Christmas, David Banton

Hattiesburg, MS 2012

  Hello there, I guess all of you have moved a few times during your lives, so you know some of the challenges right?  I think moving ranks pretty high on the list of life’s stressful events.  After all there is so much to do, what about the emotions involved leaving friends and family.  If our reason for moving is a really good one then it can take some of the sting out of it right? I said all that to set the stage to tell you the story of my first 2 days in Hattiesburg.  It’s Monday afternoon and the place is Main Street Baptist Church.

   Pulling up one sees the family Name and right away there is comfort.  Look at the tree lined driveway, the staircase, the column’s marking the grand entry and the acres prepared to receive family and friends. Wow this is going to be great! So, you ring for a servant of the grounds but instead the Estates sovereign answers. Immediately acknowledging receipt of letter about you and is so kind and gentle. Saying, “Dear Brother, I regret to tell you that I have not had the time necessary to obtain approval of insurance for you to park here.  Even had I more time I’m not sure I could have obtained it.”  Being silent while looking around seeing hundreds of places to park, one could imagine the great cost. Then the sovereign breaks the silence saying, “Brother in the Lord I wish could help but my hands; are tied”.  Disheartened you say thanks just the same and move on, hoping to find a room at the inn.  Then, not far away there is another estate bearing the family Crest. But no letter has been sent ahead and there is a grand event about to take place.  Seeing a servant and inquiring a space was provided one night.  So, on the outer most fringes along a busy backstreet I bedded down.  Though it was cold and noisy the Sun came up in the morning.  So putting first thing first it’s off to get a cup of coffee.  Oh, the coffee is so good and thinking about yesterday one wonders how today is going to go.  Just then you meet a man and he claims to bear the family name.  Yet he is not much to look at and in fact looks just like a common man. After talking awhile you consider that he sounds sincere enough and you say to him, “I am of the same Crest in name and desire a safe place to lodge, that is warm and to have fellowship for six days.  If you may know of such a place I would be indebted to you.  But please do not feel obligated, after all we just met.”   So then, he takes leave.  Within a matter of minutes the fellow calls saying, “there is a warm place for you to stay and the fellowship that you desire.  Tell me then how soon can you come?  So happily you go traveling a distance from the big city.  Arriving and finding the estate small, making no great boasting in its appearance and in wonder of this being the right place.  Then there comes a servant to greet you and at once you realize that royalty has spoken.  The King Himself has taken notice and sent to you more than was desired!  (Note: while writing the last two sentences I had to stop a few times, overwhelmed by God’s Love with tears).

  So that’s how the week started and I will make mention of a few events that followed.

  Brother Terry is the “fellow” I met at the coffee shop on Tuesday.  The place that, “The King provided” was Lynn Ray Road Baptist Church in Petal, MS.

 On Wednesday with the week starting the way it did was spent writing about the past week’s events and getting familiar with the area. At 4:30 I was at the Laundromat getting ready to do the wash when I read this this text: Did you make a decision yet? I thought what decision, then I checked my phone and earlier about 12:30 there was a text asking if I would speak at the 7:00 service!  Oh no, that’s embarrassing and my prep time was short. Of course I said yes, put the laundry up and headed home to seek the Lord on what to speak about.

  The hour and a half went by so fast but I had a topic and outline!  I just needed to print it out.  When I walked in at 6:30 and saw all the dear people getting ready to share the meal; all the wind went out of my sail.  No matter that I needed to find what equipment would be available.  I thought I might use a short video as part of the presentation but that wasn’t to happen so more wind went out of me.  Okay now relax and print your outline: well that was not working either.  Let me tell you that I had the best of help. By this time I started to feel an overwhelming shame.  I did not what to bring shame on the Lord in front of all these dear people.  So, I quit in my mind and then said to the associate minister “Brother, I’m sorry but I can’t do this”.  Then, I went to have a quick bite to eat.  Then a young men approached saying how many copies do you need because I can go to my house which is nearby and print them.  I told him that all I needed was one but don’t worry about it because I can’t speak tonight.  Thanks all the same.  Sitting there, shame was still billowing in over me.  There was no announcement and it was 7:00 and then the young man walked up and handed to me my printed outline.  Really now! What shall I do?  I looked at the outline and opened the Bible to the my first text: 2 Corinthians 13:5 and what I saw was one verse in red letters in the center of two pages of otherwise all black text: And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” and the Word came to me right then, the Light of Life came in like a wave and the shame was no more!  Praise God!  I picked up my Bible and outline, walked over and set it on the podium.  I nodded to Terry that it was a go and He introduced me.  Still shaken, humbled and awestruck I mumbled a few words about what had taken place and then to the text:  After that there was no reservation!  The Lord had once again honored me for standing up to open my mouth.  He has never failed me nor do I have any reason to doubt He ever will.  I was tired, weakened by fever and that along with the other circumstances; The Holy Spirit moved through me. Hallelujah!

the Word came to me right then, the Light of Life came in like a wave and the shame was no more! Praise God!

  Thursday I was having lunch at Chick Filet and a young lady carrying her child walked up saying that’s your truck.  Here we go again, the Lord wasn’t finished yet.  Ashley and family recently moved here because her husband Scott was transferred to Hattiesburg, MS from Fort Lee.  Fort Lee is the Army base in Petersburg, VA.  Not so big a story right?  Well here’s the rest of it; Ashley said that when she pulled into the parking lot and saw the Jesus Truck she took a picture of it and sent it to Scott who responded no way.  This family is from my home church Colonial Heights Baptist Church in Colonial Heights, VA.   I’m in Mississippi which is a long way from home, thanksgiving has come and gone and we are approaching Christmas. God had orchestrated this meeting between Scott, Ashley, Little Miss Lily Jane Goble and me!    We had a great time reminiscing about home and even better I enjoyed fellowship with them Friday at their home. How about home cooked Italian, “Chicken Cacciatore! Oh, it was pretty cool when we made a video call to the Calabrese family back home to share how we met.

Meet my friends ; Scott, Ashley, Little Miss Lily Jane Goble

  Then Saturday we got together again and I enjoyed Worship service at their new home church.  Dear Scott, Ashley and Little Miss Lily Jane,   Thank you for making this Christmas a very memorable one. 

Sunday I was blessed to worship at Lynn Ray Road Baptist Church.  Both morning and evening services were encouraging.  Pastor James Taylor was a hoot.  At least I think that’s correct terminology around here.  James actually made reference to being “Pentecostal Baptist”.  I really have no problem with that because He preached the word seriously and his countenance display abiding gratitude, and joy that produces light into a dark world.  From Tuesday through Monday when I left this dear body of believers; they were unceasing in the loving care towards me. I thank God for you all and I’m believing with Pastor that as you grow in the likeness of Christ, Your joy of the Lord will increase and you will stand out as bright light in Petal, MS and where ever you may go.   Please remember and ask God to help you, to do what we talked about on Wednesday.  God has promised that He will not withhold any good thing from His children. “But seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added to you”.  One more thing Lynn Ray Roads Baptist Church; there is now posted to my wall a hand written letter bearing no signature. The words written moved me greatly. I want you to know that your request is my pleasure. Thank You.

From Tuesday through Monday when I left this dear body of believers; they were unceasing in the loving care towards me. Lynn Ray Road Baptist Church in Petal, MS 601.545.7635 Thanks again!

  In closing:  What a rollercoaster ride with the Peaks more numerous than the valleys.  But no matter where I am the Lord is always with me.  When I consider how God is so attuned to my everyday life; it leaves me awestruck each time.

   Thank all of you at home and those abroad for the various ways you support me in the Lords work.  May the Love and Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ abound to each of You. That you may know the fullness to which we may obtain even now as we wait for the blessed hope in the age to come. Amen.

Agape, David

Jackson, Mississippi 2012

  Hello, Mississippi!  Monday morning I left Alabama for my first stop in Meridian, MS.  Along the drive I called ahead to let the church there know that I was running an hour behind schedule.  I was surprised to hear that I was not welcome. The pastor said He had no interest in calling any of the references I had sent to him.  The reason was that he didn’t know any of them personally.  He even said that he thought this would be the case no matter where I went in Meridian.  Later, I made the decision to move on to the next town which was Jackson, MS.  I arrived well after hours so, Tuesday morning I spoke with the Pastor at Highland Colony Baptist Church who was glad to provide a place for me to park for the week.

  Wednesday I went to check out the Capitol City and quite frankly was surprised that it was not more polished than it was.  Even downtown there was no grand attraction.  However during the week I found the attraction to be in the people I met here!

   Wednesday, evening I lost some enthusiasm and the rest of the week the major challenge was weakness and fever.  I spent a lot of time in the word and I was able to produce a short video presentation of the gospel. Check it out!  Here’s the link:

http://youtu.be/WQtuMp4dSVc

The Gospel in 3 Minutes.

  Praise God! That when I’m not well the Lord gives me the ability to do something productive for His name sake! Amen.

  Sunday morning I enjoyed a beautiful worship service at Highland Colony Baptist Church.

  I was blessed as the Lord sent men and woman throughout the week just when I needed encouragement. Sunday evening on two different occasions the encouragement to continue on the Journey was made clear to me.  Yes!

  This may be the shortest post to date but the Lord is always at work and this is the confidence I have even in my weaknesses.

In closing:  Please know that I appreciate every prayer, every encouragement and every support you all have extended to me!

So, I continue The Journey, 50 States, One True Story “JESUS”! 

I pray the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another and toward all men, even as I do toward you:

                                                                           Agape,   David Banton

Only JESUS Saves in Montgomery, Alabama.

Montgomery, Alabama 2012

   What a welcome, I received by Pastor Dan Harrison of Eastern Hills Baptist Church.  It’s such an encouragement whenever I am received in the love of Christ period!  A place to park is great in and of itself, but electricity and use of the facilities allowed me more time to focus on the mission. 

  On Tuesday I spent a good portion of the day writing about the events of the prior week in Birmingham.  I think Tuesday’s have become my “Day at the Office.”  Then Wednesday is my “Spy out the Land Day.”

  Wednesday evening I enjoyed the evening meal, fellowship and Bible study with the brethren at Eastern Hills.  Thanks for making me feel at home.

  There were no major events in and around the Capital City of Alabama last week.  However it was a week that I will remember because of the dear people the Lord put in my path.  Like a cashier in Taco Bell, another at Wal-Mart, many at the Laundromat and more than I can remember in parking lots and along the sidewalks.  Let me note, most of these encounters happened in what might be called less than desirable areas of town.  But I love it!  Just imagine for a moment pulling up in a parking lot hearing two men saying I love you brother while embracing and they do not look like they can be related. How about seeing four or five people holding hands in a parking lot taking turns praying aloud one for another.  Or when a question about the Cross on the Jesus Truck turns into two, three and four people praising God in the public square! The scripture that comes to mind is, they shall know you are my witnesses by the Love you have one for another. Amen. Of course this brings me great joy whenever it happens.  One place that really “Takes the Cake” is when it happens spontaneously at a Christian bookstore or on Church property.  Sometimes I sense folks are taken back a bit, but after all we are the Light of the World!

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matt. 5:16)

  An appropriate end to the week happened Sunday evening when I attended; “Hanging of the Green” a celebration of the hope found in Jesus Christ. Featuring; the Eastern Hills Sanctuary Choir, Orchestra, the Youth and Children’s Choirs, Drama and Narration.

    Throughout the week, The Lord sent encouragement, many one on one witnessing opportunities and some great Iron sharpening Iron meetings. While making mention of a few, there are others that have no less been appreciated and all of them are a  Joy to me even now as I continue The Journey 50 States One True Story Jesus! 

Once again God has provided everything I had need of and I am confident that God is with me as I approach the strains yet ahead.  Your prayers and encouragement are highly regarded. 

  Until next week and God willing I will write to you again.  

Agape, David

Birmingham, Alabama 2012

  The City of Birmingham was my second stop in Alabama.  I arrived a little after sunset and got settled in at The Church at Brook Hills.  Later, I enjoyed the men’s bible study there.  Tuesday I was glad to find that Birmingham would not be dry like the week prior. In other words I met Christians who were not ashamed to identify with Jesus! This really goes a long way in setting the stage for a productive week.   

  Wednesday morning I was informed that my ministry would be better suited for the downtown area.  The reasons stated, “this is a wealthy area” and “we have a lot of vandalism by the youth around here.”  All I will say is: I was surprised as this was the launching pad where “RADICAL” recently became a common term in US Christianity.

The Gospel the Narrow Way

  Moving on (no pun intended), just a few miles away I found a place that would be home the rest of the week.  After I relocated I went across town to do laundry.  I had a great time meeting folks and sharing Jesus. There I met a brother that I will not soon forget.  To be encouraged and to encourage is so dear to me.  Thank you Brother David.       

  Thanksgiving Day was great, I decided to go to Cracker Barrel and the place was packed.  But there was a parking spot up front on the end!  Praise God!  When I went to have my name put on the list, I was told it will be one and a half hour wait.  No problem, the weather was great and what a set up to witness!  So, I spent more than three hours there and one of the best conversations was with my waitress Melba.  I saw the Holy Spirit at work in her.  What I mean is her attention was so focused on the gospel; it looked as if she was taking it in like a dry sponge set in water and had no regard for time.  At one point she smiled and said, “This is what I needed”.  Praise God!  Please pray for Melba; that God would protect her from the enemy’s efforts to kill, steal and destroy!  Pray that the Holy Spirit would brood over Melba until she comes to saving faith in the Lord Jesus Christ! 

  Friday was kind of crazy and you may know what I mean before I write about it.  Really? ……… I don’t know the words to say but; fanaticism, greed, me, me, me and get outta my way!  I thought, “What must God think?  Does not Jesus weep?  How sorely is the Holy Spirit grieved?”  Times like these really expose mankind’s depravity.  This was not the kind of thing I write about at least normally, but I want you to reflect on how important it is for you to walk with the Lord Jesus Christ!  The price Jesus paid for our sin is incomprehensible! The value of knowing Him personally cannot be overemphasized! Now a question: Does it seem too harsh that we pray for God to intervene no matter the severity to turn people to the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? (Praying) 

God or Gold? What’s your desire? One is a consuming Fire and the other will Burn up!

  Saturday evening I met a man when he stopped his car going in the opposite direction through a busy parking lot.  Steve got out and stated, “I’ve got to know, what you are doing here!  I’ve seen you everywhere I’ve gone this week”.  When I suggested we pull out of the traffic lanes He said, “they will be alright” and he started waving people around.  I liked his boldness but I thought we need to get outta the way.  So, I explained the Journey I was on to share the Gospel and how I almost missed eternal life pursuing the American dream.  Steve thanked me and went on his way.  This was encouraging but let me explain a little more and I’ll tell you why.  I purposefully spent a lot of time in traffic throughout the week.  A strategy I employed roadside was to park at a 45 degree angle using the Sun to light up the Jesus Truck.  This works great the two hours before sunset. I’ve been searching for ways to make the greatest impact during the shorter days.  Now, the encounter with Steve seemed to be positive confirmation of that impact. (Steve’s comment, “I’ve seen you everywhere I’ve gone this week”).     

Sunday morning, I went or better said “was prompted” to attend church where I thought I would not go.  That is where I met Ricky and Paula.  They had driven an hour and a half to visit there.  We met at bible fellowship, sat together during the service and then we went to lunch.  What a unique couple with a burning desire to share Christ where ever they are.  Both Ricky and Paula are a living testimony of the goodness of God.  Ricky openly shares that he pastored churches for years and that recently he was bought to the conviction that He was not Born Again!  Ricky sought God’s mercy, pleaded for Jesus Christ to save him!   Hallelujah!  Paula, his wife is “something else” a firecracker or maybe better said; little stick of dynamite for Jesus.  I think this verse sums it up well: “God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That you might be justified in your sayings, and might overcome when you are judged”. (Romans 3:4)  Please pray for my beloved Ricky and Paula Sauls who I believe are earnestly seeking to downsize and follow the Lord wherever He leads.  Pray that God’s Holy Angels who are ministering spirits to the saints would go forth gaining the victory over the powers, rulers and principalities of darkness so they may be fully united as husband and wife; to go forth in the name of The LORD.  Amen.  Brother Ricky and Sister Paula, Both of you have been such a blessing to me and I hope that I may see you again this side of eternity.  Yet above that; I pray that you finish strong, not considering the cost as thing to be grasped. By the Power of the Holy Spirit; the honor set before us is to live out our time in the absolute surrender, giving preeminence in all things to Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!  To God Be the Glory!  Amen.

 One more thing before I close; If you take note of my checking account you will see how tight things have been. I get paid the fourth Wednesday each month, so considering the distance that I’ve traveled the last six weeks through Virginia, Tennessee and two Cities in Alabama it’s worked out extremely well.

Checking – 0596

Available Balance: $24.55 | Edit Nickname

  Note: 11/23 was for cellphone and PENDING Nationwide INS is auto deduct.  As you can see I did not have money in the bank for gas to get where I am now or for anything else until Wednesday. Additionally consider that and I have not expressed a need for anything to anybody:  Yet I arrived at my next stop on schedule with a full tank of gas and money for food.  Praise God!  I did not write this so you might think poor David.  I am not poor but rich indeed.  I rejoice in amazement every time and in everything that I know comes from God!  This is actually a prized benefit that I have come to cherish!  Praise the Lord! He is with me!  In the good times and the bad!  I rejoice in the realized presence of the Lord!

   Wow, I better wrap things up.  One more town is behind me along; The Journey 50 States One True Story JESUS!

  God willing, I may enjoy the privilege to write you again about a week from now.  In the meantime please contact me if I may pray for you, encourage you or discuss any matter concerning discipleship.  

  Agape, David       (FB David Banton or david@hiscall888.com)

Huntsville, Alabama 2012

  The week in Huntsville was quit unique.  But before I go into that, God blessed me with a great place to call home base, parking, electricity and amenities. (Whitesburg Baptist Church)

  The non-responsiveness to the cross and its message is what I meant about Huntsville being unique.  Throughout the week as I moved in and around town flying the banner of Christ the atmosphere was still.  I do not recall one person excited about the “Jesus truck”.    This scripture came to mind; “And he did not do many mighty works there, because of their unbelief.” (Matt 13:58)  I’m not inferring this is the case but simply that this scripture came to mind.

  As a result I spent more time in the Word and in prayer.  It very well could be that this was the Lords will for me here.

Because of the Fall, Jesus went to the Cross!

Now, that I may boast in God’s goodness towards me here:

I think it was Wednesday when I found a worn five dollar bill under the wiper blade of the “Jesus truck”.  God knows who left it and He knows how much that meant to me. (Someone was excited!)

It was Saturday about 9:30pm when I received this message posted to this website:  

   My husband and I got behind you in a parking lot while we were having our “date night” in Huntsville, AL.  We actually live in Scottsboro, which is about an hour drive from Huntsville.  We curiously made note of the website on your truck and logged in as soon as we go home.  What you are doing is awesome and inspiring.  We will be praying for you on your journey and will be keeping tabs on this website.  God-speed and God Bless!

Wow, what a Gift from the Lord!  Thanks, Amy.

  Sunday morning at Whitesburg Baptist Church I heard the most inspiring message preached by Senior Pastor Jimmy Jackson.   He declared that the proclamation gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ was as urgent today as it ever.  He also spoke of the cost that’s being incurred by dear saints around the world today.  This was accompanied by a warning for us in America.  

Sunday evening it happened again at Whitesburg and the message was preached by Associate Pastor Greg Corbin. 

This is the link to so you view sermons on YouTube:  www.youtube.com/user/whitesburgbaptist

  I was so filled by the Word and encouraged or well fed and amped up, that I don’t know what anyone could have done with me?  Maybe that’s like saying; “I was beside myself”?

Amped and ready for Lift-off!

Monday morning I went to get a cup of coffee before I headed off to the next stop.   While at Panera Bread the Holy Spirit lead me to speak words of encouragement to someone and this is how I met Brother Michael.  God did it again, it’s incredible that when I obey His prompting how God’s blessing becomes circular.  What I’m trying to say is; I went to encourage and was encouraged in such an incredible way that it seems that God placed Brother Michael there to bless me.  We spent more than two hours going deeper into the function of the Bride of Christ and the Lords return.  Praise God!  Amen.

There’s one very interesting note I want to share with you.  I will need to take you back to last June when I was in Madison, Wisconsin.  You may recall that is where possibly the most unrealistic church experience occurred.  I had arrived Sunday evening during the holiday weekend and the church offices were closed Monday.  I wrote that Tuesday morning I arrived before the staff at First Baptist Church of Madison.  So I decided to unhook the ministry trailer, parked it in the rear corner of the church parking lot and went to get a cup of coffee.  Then when I returned the trailer had been towed.  Okay, this next part I did not write in my post but you will see why I mention it now.  When I initially pulled into the parking lot, I noticed the mileage of my truck was 66,666 miles and reasoned that it would be superstitious to think anything of it.    Now to make my point:    

 When I got into my truck Sunday night after the evening service I noticed the mileage on my truck: 77,777 miles!  I thought you’ve got to be kidding!  That’s crazy!  Okay Lord that’s so cool!   I don’t know any other way to process that except that it was from the Lord.  Thinking about the email message Saturday night, then both services Sunday and the encounter Monday morning:  “In an arid place God sent Rain!” 

Praise God for His Love, Faithfulness and Devotion!!!

 To all the brethren,

Thank you for your prayers and every support.  They are as rain to me as I continue answering His Call.  

Please join me in rejoicing and saying with a loud voice “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom. And strength and honor and glory and blessing!” (Rev.5:12)

                                                                             Agape, David

Memphis, TN 2012

  The City of Memphis completes the tour through the State of Tennessee.  Memphis held true to form as; Knoxville, Chattanooga and Nashville.  Tennessee has a Christian presence that is remarkable as compared to my experience through 13 of the 50 states.

  Arriving Monday afternoon I soon found a place to call home base for the week; Ridgeway Baptist Church. There I met Brother Seth who God used to bless me throughout the week. Monday evening while downtown, I stopped at the Memphis Rescue Missions and attended evening service.   It was good to see men doing the work of the Lord there. 

  Tuesday afternoon at Panera Bread I met Michelle because of the Cross.  She had to tell me how much the Cross meant to her.  You may know how that is “music to my ears”.  Michelle bought lunch for me and went back to work.  Later, I went to get something from the ministry trailer and there I met Brother Kevin.  Kevin was waiting to meet me hoping we could go evangelizing together. Wow, how cool was that!  Oh and by this time I had been invited to dinner Wednesday at Seth’s home.

  Wednesday afternoon Kevin and I took to the streets to share Jesus and what a joy, though the time flew.  Then off to Seth’s for dinner and fellowship. Seated at this table were 7 ordinary people having 1 extraordinary desire: To follow the Lamb wherever He leads and to be the Living Church of the Bible. Praise God!  Amen.  The fellowship around the dinner table went on for about 9 hours.  The fragrance of Christ abounded as testimonies were shared and the Word opened.

  Thursday was a short one, none the less the gospel went forth and it was a great day.

The Tree of Life!

  Brother Kevin introduced me to Fat Friday.  Kevin and one of his friends started this as they would adhere to a strict diet all week and then on Friday they would have lunch at the best place they knew.  Kevin bought lunch at a Mexican restaurant that had made their list. The food was great and the fellowship sweet.  Thanks Kevin.   

  Saturday it was all out which included going downtown to Beale Street from 5pm until 12:30 am.  Beale Street is closed off for two blocks to through traffic.  This is where people come to have a good time.  Parking is extremely limited around the perimeter but wouldn’t know The Lord provided a great spot. I really got excited when about a block away I saw a man walking down the middle of Beale Street carrying a Cross!  It did not take long for me to catch up with Him though it took a few moments to catch my breath.  There with him was his family and a few friends. They were handing out tracts and engaging one on one sharing the gospel. We had a time of it together and saw the Holy Spirit at work!  Soon we said goodbye and I went back to my post (the truck).  I slowed down for a while at least until reinforcements arrived.  Two of Seth’s friends whom I had met Wednesday Nick and Charlie arrived about 10:30pm.  We finished about 12:30 am.

  Sunday morning came fast and the Service at Ridgeway Baptist Church was great.  The pastor invited me to share at the 6pm service.  The day ended much the same as it started with great preaching.

America Return to Christ!

  What a way to finish in Tennessee! Remember the week before in Nashville; Brother Kris drove from Louisville to join me for a couple of days and it was hard to say goodbye?  This week God blessed me with co laborers and sweet fellowship.  Thanks Seth, Ricky, Nick, Kevin and all who where a blessing to me!

  Although I did not go into great detail, I believe this week may have been one of the most active to date.   The banner of Jesus Christ was flown throughout and around Memphis, many were engaged one on one and the gospel was abundantly sown.  Confident that God will give the increase and we may see the fruit of my/our labor.  Thanks to each one that God has used to encourage, teach, pray and provide for me along;   The Journey 50 States One True Story JESUS!

Agape, David

Nashville, Tennessee 2012

  Wow the City of Nashville held to the pattern of Knoxville and Chattanooga (Not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ).  The Lord provided a great place to park at Immanuel Baptist Church. 

  On Tuesday morning I filled the gas tank which was the second time in 24 hours and it weighed a bit heavy on me.  Caught in morning traffic I may have gone 2 miles when I noticed a lady to my left motioning for me to roll my window down. When I did she said, “Can I get you some gas?”  I told her that I had just filled up and she said let me go across the street and I’ll be right back. She came back and handed me $100 dollars and off she went. Praise God!  I was not that burdened! This question just came to mind, “Have you ever heard of anyone else’s so called god do anything like this?”  I don’t think it is even possible.

  Tuesday evening I was honored to serve alongside many brethren under the Jefferson St. Bridge. “At The Bridge” ministries gather weekly to serve the needs of the homeless.  Food, clothing, hygiene items, preaching and gospel music performed by various artists.  This is another time that in going to serve I left encouraged and strengthened by the Holy Spirit.

  There was no Wednesday evening service because of Halloween so I set the: “Don’t Come Here! JESUS Saves!” prop up, lite it up and went cruising.  Keeping the “main thing” the main thing right?

Don’t Come Here! JESUS SAVES!

  Thursday came with much anticipation. Brother Kris Salyer whom I met in Louisville, Kentucky about two and a half years ago drove here to go to the streets with me.  This was the 3^rd time as He served alongside of me a week each in Minneapolis, MN and Cincinnati, OH.  Getting in around 5pm we wasted no time and headed out to fly the banner of the Lord JESUS Christ.  It happened that the Country Music Awards were being presented that night and downtown we went. The streets were packed and parking probably not realistic especially central to the event.  But “with God all things are possible” and HE provided again!  Parked in the middle of the action Kris and I spent the next six hours engaging one on one with those drawn by the Cross and others as the Holy Spirit led. Some of the local businesses were promoting there nightly specials by handing out literature so that made it a little easier to go behind them offering; “A Invitation” (that is to come to Christ).

  I don’t remember much about Friday, except that the night before had taken a toll and I was not ready for a repeat. However Kris and I were determined to make the most of Saturday.  Driving to the church about 9pm I was thinking we would have an early night.  The thing is I forgot about what typically happens when Kris and I get together.  We talk about scripture, so here we go opening the Word and before I knew it; it was 2am.

Tree of Life.

  Saturday we were determined to make the most of the day.  With the sun shining and temps in the mid 70’s we set out for Bicentennial Park.  The Lord blessed us with many opportunities to share the massage of Jesus being the only way back to God.  We met some dear Christians, so in ministering the Word and in Prayer the Holy Spirit was at work.  “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend”. (Proverbs 27:17 NKJV)  Later while at KFC ministry continued, (Praise God for the Power of the Cross!) Brother Kris was on a roll, sharing the gospel, giving out bibles, loving people and praying for them.  I love it when we go into neighborhoods where “we don’t fit the mold” how God uses that to draw people to Himself.  

  Well, it was time for my dear brother Kris to be on his way to Louisville, KY.  This was the 4^th stop along; “The Journey 50 States One True Story JESUS!” that God has blessed me to have Kris alongside.  His Passion for JESUS, the Brethren and the Lost is inspirational to me.  Each time I have to say “until I see you again Brother” it hurts.  And like Kris it is the same with Tony & Bridget, all the brethren back home Virginia and those saints I’ve met along the way.  I think this to be part of; “Living the Crucified Life”.  None the less I part with what I’ve seen to follow the One whom I have not seen and the love of Christ controls me in that I no longer live for self but for Him who died for me and rose again Amen.

  Sunday I enjoyed the service at Emmanuel Baptist Church and rested in preparation for the week to come.

  The seven days here in Nashville are done (the time has passed) and only God knows what will remain after all our works are tried as with fire.  What remains will be seen and all the Glory Be To God!  So, dear Saints make the most the day while it is still day because your redemption draws near and our Lord bids us to follow Him.

  Until next week, that is according to God’s will I may write to you again.  Though far or near in distance we are joined in the Spirit of Jesus Christ.

                                                          Agape, David