Grand Rapids, Michigan 2012

The first of four stops in “Pure” Michigan is complete.  Having much to be thankful for it’s with a measure of disappointment that I have little to write about the week in Grand Rapids.  But here are some details that come to mind;

Arriving safe on Monday the Lord provided a place to park the trailer for the week.  At least that proved to be the case one day at a time.  What I mean is on arrival I introduced myself, explained the ministry, and gave letter from my pastor and contact information to include website and phone number.  I was told, I could park overnight and they would be in touch.  That was great but the rest of the week I was left to wonder to the last day.  I had contacted them by email, left voice mail, made personal contact and I left a written request for someone to call me.  As of now I’m not sure what to make of this and should let it go.

Monday and Tuesday with the heat of summer in full force, ministry was done one on one inside. The exception was when I parked under the deck at the mall.  Remember, I need 12 feet for the cross to clear.   The shade and the wind blowing made it nice to sit on the tailgate and share Christ with some passersby.

Thanks again Walmart! Grand Rapids, Michigan!

Thursday I met a dear brother in the lobby of The Hampton Inn, Scott Bondy and I shared testimonies of Gods working to bring us to Christ.  Scott shared how God called him and provided a Missions ministry. You can read Scotts testimony and about the ministry here:  www.forthejoy.com.

Then on Friday at Panera Bread I met Brother Dave Geroux who’s involved with a local church plant.  God used these two men to build me up after a lackluster start here in Rapid City.  Praise God!  Thank you Scott and David.  Friday evening closed out at Wal-Mart after a couple hours of interesting conversations and seeing the diverse impact the cross invoked on many.

Saturday was a day spent downtown proper with one of the props upright in the back of the truck.  I spent some time sitting on a bench reading a book.  Still I listened to the conversations of passersby and when prompted engaged in conversations.  I recall one theatrical event that I would like to have caught on video or at least a snapshot or two.  It was hilarious to me but I’m not quite sure the intent behind it. By the time I stopped laughing the cast was gone. 

Downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan 2012

On Sunday I went to Worship the Lord at the church I was parked at and afterwards I set out to spend the rest of the day along the shore of Lake Michigan in Grand Haven.  After all, this maybe the last time I enjoy seeing this body of water as I have completed the journey through the states that border it.  What a really nice way to close out the week here.  So as I reflect on the beauty of the ocean without salt and on the faithfulness of God to provide and to be the lifter of my head; I move on to the next stop along; The Journey 50 States One True Story JESUS!

Now being at stop #2 in Lansing, Michigan of 4 scheduled, I thank God for His faithfulness past, present and future in saving a sinner namely me.  As well I’m with deep gratitude for past, present and future prayers, encouragement and support of all my dearly beloved brothers and sisters in the Lord Jesus Christ!

In closing:  Please do not hesitate to contact me that I may be of help to you along this most difficult and narrow way of the cross.  I love looking into Gods Word, discovering its truths and realizing its application for His children.  I know the power of prayer, the benefit of encouragement and the extreme necessity of these for every Christian. (No, that’s not a typo.)

 Please that we may disciple one another call, email, text, Facebook or come to see me.

May you grow in the Graces of God by realizing the Truth of His Word, the Power of His Spirit and the Love of Jesus Christ all the more each and every day!

Agape,  david@hiscall888.com

South Bend, Indiana 2012

This stop in The Journey was the 4th town in the State of Indiana:  This week was low keyed with no major events taking place.  On Monday I arrived safely in South Bend, Indiana and was blessed to be received in the love of Christ by Pastor Scott Smith at South Side Baptist Church.  In fact throughout the week I enjoyed fellowship with many of the members. 

 
On Tuesday, I had the honor to fellowship, have lunch and speak to the seniors.  I was encouraged by the commitment they have of staying active for the sake of the gospel.
As far as spying out the land the Wal-Mart parking lots would prove to be the place to evangelize.  However there was not as much freedom as I had enjoyed in other towns.  Here I was informed that I needed to apply 3 days prior for permission to engage in any fundraising or soliciting venture.  I learned awhile back that it’s no use in trying to explain that I’m not per definition soliciting and certainly not fundraising.  Better to say no problem and move on.  In places like this it’s not uncommon for me to go back another day with a prop lighted, park and go shopping for a while.  I remember this week of how much joy it brought me when I hooked up the trailer and drove around town the two hours before sunset.  Talk about having an impact as in finger pointing, the starting of conversations, people turning their heads at differing angles trying to take it all in and then there are those reactions that make me fearful as on judgment day that are not repented of.   I’m reminded of Jesus and the apostle Stephan when part of their prayer was, “forgive them for they know not what they do”.

JESUS Head of The Church!

On Thursday I happened on a site for sore eyes; The University of Notre Dame – Home of the Fighting Irish.
The grounds and architecture where beautiful, but the atmosphere was cold.  I mean the fighting Irish of Notre Dame was all I heard of.  But then looking at the detail of the structures, the road names and the building at center court things began to make sense.  So I guess not having graphics of Mary and maybe say purgatory instead of hell implored the atmosphere I made mention of earlier.  That evening I didn’t hang around much longer after I put 2 and 2 together.  Just to clarify, I’m grieved for the souls that have been deceived and pray for them.  I remember a comment that Brother Kris Salyer wrote a few weeks ago in response to church people not believing in hell.  In my words Kris’s point was; that we all need to be careful less we fall into the same pit of believing destructive heresies.  The chief cause is not knowing God’s Word and the importance of filtering every sermon and book we encounter through the same.

Pretty Cool!

Friday and Saturday was business as usual enjoying one encounter after another through and around South Bend. 
On Sunday it was time for congregational Worship.  From Sunday school to Alter Call that’s what happened here.  Earlier I wrote about how God blessed me with good fellowship at South Side Baptist Church.  One of those times was on Sunday after service when Brother Tom invited me to have lunch with him.  Lunch was great but even better was the sharing of testimonies about God’s goodness in our lives.  Also dear to me was the Godly wisdom I gleaned from a man who has for many years been committed to serving the Lord.   Again the common thread is that such service is motivated by Love.  The Love: that’s extended by God, through Christ and brought to Life by the Holy Spirit.  Praise God!  Amen.

A Priceless event occurred Sunday evening about 4:30 pm. while I was at the church preparing for the next days travel.  A young lady and her son walked up and motioned as if she wanted say something.   So I stepped out of the truck and come to find out;  This Dear Sister in the Lord told how she had seen the Jesus truck earlier in the week that it had made such an impression that when someone told her my truck was at the church, her and her son hurried to walk in the heat hoping that I would still be there.  She was so sweet, I mean the encouragement was priceless.  We  carried on for quite a while and when we were about to part company she asked, “have you had lunch yet?” (I told her I had).  Remember she did not drive a car and now she was concerned about me having lunch!  That’s real Christian Love!  Not long after she left I set out to find Rehma Church (the one she attends), I just hoped to be able to thank her again.  I found the church but no one there.  I don’t remember her name but am hopeful that she will read this entry.  Thank You, I will not soon forget this.
Though I have mentioned only few; I’m extremely grateful for every encouragement extended to me in person or in passing by various signs.  Thanks, you are a Joy to me even now as I continue The Journey 50 States One True Story Jesus!
 In closing, once again God has provided everything I had need of and by that I’m all the more certain that God is with me as I approach the next stop.  Your prayers, support and encouragement are highly regarded.

 
Agape, David

Welcome to Michigan City, IN 2012!

   After the week I enjoyed at home in Virginia, I was wondering how the transition back into strange lands would play out.  So let me share with you a bit of 7 days in Michigan City.

  Sunday evening I was back in Chicago and upon arrival at Trinity International University everything changed in the blink of an eye.  I mean when I saw the Ram that God provided and the Ministry Trailer; I was at Home but not at Home.  So back to flying the banner of Christ and off to the next stop on the journey.  One thing that made this easier was that God had provided a place for me to go ahead of time.  About six weeks ago in Northwest Indiana by what I believe was God’s divine providence I met Ken. The time we spent together then was remarkable but this week would surpass that.  Ken and his family welcomed me as family.  Talk about not being ashamed of the gospel.  When I mentioned going to the church to unhook and park the trailer, Ken was quick to say you don’t need to do that park it right in front of the house. Later in the week He made mention of looking forward to hearing what others would say or ask after I was gone.

Home God Provided 7,1 - 7,8,2012

  Monday and Tuesday were for the most part spent checking out the territory and getting a game plan together.  During these two days ministry took place but not full blown.  The heat was on, with temps above 100 degrees. One of the perks was riding along Lakeshore Drive and watching the sunset over the same body of water that just a few weeks ago I had seen the sunrise. Praise God for the sunrise and the sunset over Lake Michigan! 

Amazed by the Sun? What until you see the Son of God!

 Then Wednesday July, 4^th was here.  I had been looking forward to this for a couple of weeks because Victory Christian Center in Portage, Indiana called me saying the entry fee was on them if I could come.  Some of you may remember how last fall in Louisville, KY and Hampton Roads, VA, God moved to make a way for the Cross to be lifted up before about 100,000 people. On both occasions there were no preparations but at the prompting of the Spirit I moved and God opened the door. Praise God!   This 4^th of July parade would have a glory of its own to me.  Having prepared the Jesus truck & trailer I met up with VCC and got in line.  VVC’s float ornament was a replica of the Twin Towers Cross of 911.  Over the next couple of hours I would be taken by what I witnessed going before me.  There were a host of church members preparing to minister to hundreds of people in the face of 102 plus degree weather. What a living demonstration; “deny yourself, take up your cross and follow me”. This was before the 3 mile parade route began.  Then the team of Christian soldiers armed 2,000 NT Bibles, Tracts, Candy and Smiles began to march and the parade was on.  Overwhelmed I took hold of my camera and recorded some of what I witnessed.  Part way through I had to lay the camera down, the intense heat started having its effect and the Jesus Truck became a blessing in a capacity that I had not envisioned.  One soldier, then another came to recover and then back to the mission. Later, it became more like a triage center and at the end served as emergency transport to the Emergency Room.  The good news is, “everyone recovered!” Praise God!!

 The ideas for ministry for the rest of the week here were:

Thursday: Walmart using audio and video in the Trailer.

Friday: The Light House Outlet Mall   “                  “                  .

Saturday: Air Show in Gary, IN     “                   “                      

 Well so much for plan A. I say this because the Heat was unrelenting.  Even with energy stores drained and attention spans shortened ministry continued.  Thursday, Friday and Saturday I was blessed to share Christ and engage in Christian fellowship on occasions in and around Michigan City. 

Then Sunday God moved the weather some 20 degrees which was just in time for the Grand Finally.  With the cool breeze moving over Lake Michigan, there came strength, vitality and excitement. Culminating in what might prove to be the most fruitful day of evangelism for me to date.    Sunday morning at about 5:20am the Jesus Truck and Trailer roared to life, off to a day and evening at the beach ending at night with a literal Bang!

On arrival it looked like things were not going to work out as planned.  Even after confirming the protocol twice earlier in the week with those in charge. The detail that seemed to present a problem was, “we cannot allow any trailers to park here during the event”.  I simply told them what I was told and was quiet.

A little while later they made a conditional exception saying that they would allow me to park in the sand.  Again a bit of silence was in order. (This has proved to be a valuable commodity time and again). During which, I appealed to God.  Just then I was told to pull ahead and stop at the office for further instruction.  So I did just that and after answering a couple of questions I was given the green light to go and park anywhere I desired which would not be in the sand.  They apologized for the miscommunication and that I would have to pay for two parking places at $6 each. I’m thinking are you kidding me? $12 no problem and Praise God!  So I parked and walked about a mile and a half to get coffee. (Pretty good to get through this without having coffee, yes?)

  I guess I should tell you what all the excitement is about.  Michigan City celebrates Independence Day on the Sunday following the actual day of the 4^th when it does not fall on a Sunday naturally.  Thousands of people from miles around come for a day on the beach of Lake Michigan (Washington Park) which culminates with a grand fireworks display.

With the people rolling in, weather in the low 80’s and a nice breeze blowing in from over the water; it was Showtime. At about 10am I lowered the ramp door of the trailer, cranked up the praise and worship music and turned on the Video. (Scenes from Passion of The Christ). This continued for more than 12 hours. God was all in this day.  Multiplied hundreds of people heard praises being lifted up to God.  The gospel was seen in graphic detail.

Washington Park Michigan City, Indiana 7.8.2012

 God blessed me with the boldness to set the stage and maintain it throughout the day and this without any doubt or fear.

I was blessed to share the massage of reconciliation between God and man numerous times today, blessed to rightly divide the Word of Truth to edify the brethren and blessed to be encouraged and ministered to by brethren.  Not to withstand mentioning the same Word of wisdom that was delivered to me two different times this week.

Washigton Park Michigan City, Indiana

Talk about being blessed coming and going? Pouring out a blessing so much as having not room enough to contain it?  To the prosperity gospel of our day I say keep your trash because I know it to be counterfeit or better yet; why don’t you throw it away too and put on The Lord Jesus Christ that you may be a joint Heir with Him in God’s Eternal Kingdom

 Praise God again and again!  The Spirit of God is within me, God’s Word is in me and God is with me! 

There are a multitude of things I’m thankful for but these are two that come to mind now: 

To my Dear Brother in Christ Tim King, 

  Thank you for the Generator that powered the audio, video and a fan to keep the equipment cool the whole day on 1 gallon of gas! Based on previous usage I thought I should have brought more fuel.  But, “God kept it going nonstop for more than 12 hours!”

Happy Independance for Eternity c/o Jesus Christ!

 To my Dear Sister in Christ Sue Castlemare,

  Thank you for the “The Cross Pennies” that have and continue to be an effective evangelism tool.  To date, I cannot think of any other means that so concisely represent the gospel message, travels so well no matter the conditions to which it may be subjected and talk about the most bang for the buck!  I’m mindful of the two mites that the widow gave and what Jesus said about that.  I know the context was different but I’m confident that at 2 cents each; treasures are being stored up in heaven as a reward for good stewardship.

 Thanks to each and every one of you that have joined with me in Christ to carry The Message of The Cross to a Lost and Dying World.  It is with surety that I believe: The fruit which is of Christ along this journey will abound to you all.   

  As I pen the last words of this week’s course it is difficult to express what I feel for the Steorts family who opened there home to me. Thanks Ken & Kathy, Meagan, Grace and Dan.  Last night while I was thinking of you the Lord comforted me in making me mindful that even the best friendships of the world are temporary but those formed in Christ are Eternal.  So by faith I lay hold to that promise, looking forward to the next time I see you.  Please contend earnestly for the faith to the very end and know that I’m here for you in any way the Lord may have me to be.

Meet Grace & Daniel (Dan)

       God willing, I’ll write to you again next week about this time. Again I Thank you for the prayers and support.  Be strong in the faith and step out of your comfort zone this week and see what God will do.    I’m sure you will be surprised and not disappointed. 

In the Love of Christ, May you grow in His Graces.     Agape, David                    

Update: Week of June 24th thru July 1st 2012

First let me fill in a blank. When I finished the 4th stop in Minnesota which was Milwaukee, I caught a flight out of Chicago to Richmond, VA (6-24 thru 7-1). This was planned about 7 weeks prior and was Top Secret. This was just four weeks after I left my hometown of Chester, VA and the Calabrese family. I love them and was missing them so much. When I remembered that Tony’s birthday was June 29th I thought it would be so cool to show up unannounced to surprise him.

Now fast forward 11 weeks (11towns) since leaving this past resurrection Sunday.

Factoring in the variable challenges during this leg of the journey; one may see that a short retreat would be just what the doctor ordered. So on 6-24 I set out on the covert operation and about 8:20pm I knocked on my brother Tony’s front door and BAM! Happy Birthday!

Happy Birthday Brother Tony NY!

So the week home was off to a great start. It was nice to see familiar territory and surprising friends and family. But majority of the week was spent with Tony, Bridget, Montana, and Anthony. The fellowship was sweet, the food awesome and most precious was discipling one another.

The week went by very quick and it’s difficult to fine good in that. Now looking back I realize how much I wanted to stay with them. So a week might have been just right after all. Oh of course it’s “what the doctor ordered”.

Back to: The Journey 50 States One True Story Jesus!

Arriving safely in Chicago; Praise God! Then to Liberty International University where I found my truck and trailer well cared for. Praise God! Thanks Liberty and Brother Michael Garner.

Sunday night I set out for stop #3 in Indiana which turned out to be Michigan City and Portage, Indiana. What a great week, will write about the week and post by tomorrow God willing.

Agape, David

   The first impression was; Wow, this place is really big. 

  Sunday morning I arrived in time to attend church service and a sermon on how much children need their fathers.  Of course I say amen. But this is a Christian congregation and I’m thinking surely they know this or am I being too presumptuous?   After that I went downtown for a while and then to evening service at Souls Harbor Baptist Church.  Okay now that’s what I’m talking about, God’s word being preached and its application being exhorted.  Here, I was welcomed in the love of Christ.  This was home base for the week here in Milwaukee.  Monday I set out to cover as much ground as possible and as of Wednesday, The banner of Christ had been flown in central downtown and out in every direction from there. But I was a bit disappointed, I had thoroughly spied out the land, but had not engaged one on one as many as I would have liked to. So that night I asked the Lord to renew my strength, increase my faith and to give me the boldness to finish strong.

Thursday afternoon I spent some time admiring the beauty of Lake Michigan and while doing so I thought this would make a great background for a video.  So I got my camera and worked my way down the cliff a little and made a short video about the Gospel.  

Afterwards I headed across town to attend evening service at Souls Harbor Baptist Church and something very special happened.  I was driving thru downtown Milwaukee, it was about 6pm in what I call the bar district; I stopped at a traffic light and noticed a man running towards me and instantly I rolled the window up halfway.  This was going down quick and I did not have any idea what!  I thought ok Lord here we go.  When the man got to the truck he reached inside, handed me a red rose and said, “From Christ brother” then he left. This guy who I have never seen just bolts out of the crowd, delivers this rose in the name of Christ and leaves.  No comment about anything else?  Before the light changed I was fighting back tears.  Remembering what I had prayed the night before, I knew this rose was from the Lord!  I mean I just stopped for the light, there was no flower stand here, the urgency of the approach, the three words, From Christ brother and he was gone. That’s crazy and I know the memory of this will not soon fade away.  The Lord had come through again.  During the course of the day I had been amazed by the beauty of God’s handiwork, and then I experienced the intimate Love of Christ and later was encouraged by believers in the most unlikely of places.

So as you may expect by now the rest of the week would not find me slow to go nor slow to speak anywhere!

  Looking back I remember how Milwaukee was intimidating in its size and how it looked dangerous in some places.  This really tested my faith and to an extent I fell short of my own expectations.  Then Wednesday I went to the Lord and Wow how He blessed me.  I think about this week’s challenges, those of past weeks and how virtue has gone out of me time and again. Then I see Gods’ faithfulness to answer my prayers that I may finish strong.  I have wondered why it’s this way and shouldn’t I be able to stay fired up? After all, all I want is to go out in a blaze of glory!  But now I believe that if I was amped up all the time, I might not give God the Glory that He deserves. This verse comes to mind;   And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (2 Co 12:9) 

In closing, I want to thank Pastor Paul Hoover and the brethren at Souls Harbor Baptist Church for extending the Love of Christ to me this week. This stop in
Milwaukee marks the completion of the call to the State of Wisconsin. The
Journey 50 States One True Story Jesus!

To everyone I have met along the way I sincerely thank you for the encouragement, prayers and support. Keep praying as I’m realizing the benefits. God willing,
I’ll write to you again about this time next week.   Agape,  David Banton

Green Bay, Wisconsin 2012

The Lord has blessed me to serve a week in Green Bay.  On Sunday morning I arrived in time to attend Bible study and Worship service at Highland Crest Baptist Church.  This was the beginning of a beautiful week of fellowship.  Not only did they welcome me in the love of Christ, they provided a place to park with electricity- Praise God!  On top of that someone checked on me every day to see if I had need of anything.  Some of you might be asking; why are you making so much of these things?  Simply because it’s not the norm as I had expected it would be.

Green Bay, Wisconsin 2012

Now about Green Bay, it came as a surprise to find this to be a small city.   The population is just over 100,000.  I think it’s the Green Bay Packers who put this place on the map.  No, not literally it was God and maybe it’s the Packers that make this place shine a little brighter.

As far as excitement goes, things started to pick up on Wednesday evening when three brothers from Highland Crest Baptist Church teamed up with me to share the gospel.  We set the Paradise prop up in the back of the truck and they followed me to Wal-Mart and it was game on.  I do not recall seeing such zeal but with these guys it was about reaching everyone possible.  This went on for about an hour and a half.  Then we were asked to leave, so we did and rejoiced that God had provided the time we had there.

I think I can I think I can. Lake Michigan. Green Bay 2012

On Thursday, I was honored to attend and be a part of a truck stop ministry.  From what I recall this has been ongoing for about 20 years.  That really spoke to me about how God can use a few dedicated believers to make an impact on many.  I met truck drivers from different parts of the country.  These men came to hear God’s word and share testimonies.  One of them did say, “I don’t know why I’m here but here I am”.  When I was asked if I’d like to come up and speak, I was on my way!  So with a captive audience the Gospel was presented and it just flowed.  I had not planned on speaking and once again I witnessed the Holy Spirit at work through me.  This is so incredible because God’s Word is in me and a part of me!

Friday evening with a dear brother alongside we set out for Wal-Mart again.  No not the same Wal-Mart but a different one.  This time it was about an hour before we were asked to move along.  There just seems to be something about the message of the Cross of Christ that rubs people the wrong way. Go figure?  Again, what a joy it was to have a co laborer along the journey.

The Glory of Creation. Praise God!

Ending out the week here on Saturday was a little low keyed. That evening I discovered there was one more Wal-Mart within striking distance so off I went.  This time, I was somewhat gun-shy and on my own.  It’s in times like this that I rely on the Ram that God has provided to get the message across.  If you sat and watched a while you would see how this actually plays out.  It’s really a sight to see and so much a help to me as I’m not as courageous as one may think.  I did not get asked to leave and what a relief that was.  Actually, in small measure I’m beginning to count rejection as a benefit of following Christ. But I certainly need God to continue working that I would decrease and Christ increase all the more.

The highlights in Green Bay were the graces of God extended through the members of Highland Crest Baptist Church (The teaching and preaching of the Word, the Love of Christ and the workers in the harvest fields).  Thanks to all of you for everything.  You have added a measure of virtue that propels me to go further along in; The Journey 50 States One True Story JESUS!

Until next week about this time and God willing,

Agape  David

Read the Lighted Billboard.

Another week along the Journey is history and what good that may come from it only God knows. Here are but a few things I praise God for as in my estimation they were
good.  On last Sunday I arrived safely in Wausau, Wisconsin and just in time to enjoy Worshipping at Immanuel Baptist Church.  There I was received in the Love
of Christ which included a place to park and on top of that this was, “Family
Bible week” an annual tradition here which included guest speakers for both youth
and adults.  From the first service on Sunday morning and continuing daily Sunday evening through Wednesday evening God blessed me even in who I sat beside.  I enjoyed the teaching of Dr. David Larson from Trinity University Chicago, IL. Brother Larson exhorted us to contend earnestly for the Faith. The assault has been to discredit; The Genesis account of the literal 6 day Creation. Most notably since the 1960’s until now in a postmodern culture the departure from scripture is starling. Recently I heard Pastor John MacArthur say that only about 6% of Bible Colleges teach the Literal 6 day account of Creation. In four evening sessions Dr. Larson
meticulously took us through Genesis 1, 2 and 3.  Quoting philosophers and the “world’s greatest minds”, Dr. Lawson wielded the Sword reducing every argument as
nonsensical.  A copy of which is available upon request.

Now about Wausau, from my perspective it reminded me of Minnesota. The typography beautiful and the people are laid back with a few exceptions. After about 7pm things really slow down and by nightfall it’s almost to a crawl.  This to me looks like a nice place to raise a family. Spiritually speaking, Wausau is predominantly Lutheran and Catholic. This puzzled me this week as to how this happens to be.  Well just now in looking at what I wrote above;  “the people are laid back” the thought that comes to me:  Is that not the most dangerous mindset that every Christian must guard against, enlisting the watchfulness of the brethren and always praying to God?  Yes! Of
course it is most needful unless we favor sacraments and good deeds over living
a life of sacrifice; being obedient to follow the commands of the One we call LORD!  My dear friends the Lord Jesus Christ chose the way of the cross and gave us the perfect example of what it takes to enter the Kingdom of God.  So Jesus calls us all to totally surrender to His Lordship, that is to die to our own agendas and to put away all the previous grand illusions we thought would bring fulfillment.   Jesus requires each of us to empty ourselves that He might come in and be our fulfillment.  After all if it’s not God in us working to do His good pleasure, what is the basis of hope that we are truly born again.  My dear friends with men this is impossible but with God all things are possible!
Will you believe God’s Word?  Will you lay down your life now for Christ sake and Live with Him eternally? Will you trust the Holy Spirit to give you everything you need to swim upstream against the ways of the World?  Or will you drift along with no matter of real conviction as to what Jesus says it takes to enter the Kingdom of God?  I pray with much diligence that you would embrace the Way of the Cross, forsaking the temporal satisfactions of the World in exchange for Life Eternal in God’s Kingdom.  Amen.

God is the Father of Lights!

I really didn’t know that I was going there but no apology do I make because I love you all.  Now back to the week here; the cross did not evoke so much response as some places but much of what I saw seemed to be that it was folly to them.  But praise be to God!  That He is the lifter of my head, The Rock of my salvation and The Joy of my life!  Hallelujah!

This week had the good pleasure of meeting a number of men, women and children to talk about Jesus.  I met most of them downtown at the park, on sidewalks and cafes.   I am in fond memory of how time and again the Lord sent encouragement to me at just the right times. Let me share with you one of these times.  One morning at
Starbucks I wrote something the Lord put on my heart to share as encouragement
by way of text messaging to some of my dear brethren. When I finished, I felt the Holy Spirit prompting me to share this message with two men in Starbucks.  When I looked, both of them where communicating in sign language and what if neither one of them could hear or speak to me?  What was the topic of their passionate communication? Starting to sound a bit like Moses, a scripture came to mind, “lean not to your own understanding but in all your ways acknowledge me”.   So I walked up with a smile and set the phone down in front of them and made a hand gesture for them to read.  Wow, that really caused quit a scene! Neither of them could hear nor speak. What ensued was about an hour and half of rejoicing together in the Lord?  We went through quite a bit of scratch paper, hand and facial expressions.  What did this look like to others?  Surely we did not think about that and again what Joy it was to be in the company of Gods children. Thank you Pastor Don Ketler and Brother Ken Tryczak for this most memorable expieriance hugs and all.

Brothers; Ken Tryczak & Don Ketler. Wausau, Wisconsin 2012

Earlier I wrote about how God had orchestrated who I sat beside at Immanuel Baptist Church, so that’s how I met Les & Kim Blount.  Les loves to share the gospel and both Les and Kim were an encouragement to me.  Les sought me out while I was in the streets to see how I was doing and that meant a lot to me.  Thanks Les and Kim.

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!  In closing; the week in Wausau has been good in that it was a time of learning the Word, the slower pace and early nights I believe will be a benefit as the next two weeks consist of Green Bay and Milwaukee.

Once again God has provided everything I had need of, so with a measure of strength restored, and added wisdom in the Word, I am more 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

Madison,Wisconsin 2012

   The first impression was; Wow, what a great looking capitol city.  Well-manicured, nice landscaping and the lakes topped it off well.

  Arriving late Sunday night and with Monday being a holiday I stayed hooked up trailer and all.  Tuesday morning I was ready to get settled for the week.  I drove to First Baptist Church of Madison (Franklin St) to introduce myself and ask for permission to
park.  No one answered the bell so I thought they would be in later.  I looked
at the parking signs and decided to unhook the ministry trailer at the rear of
the lot. Then I went just down the road for coffee and breakfast.  After which I drove back to the church only to discover that my trailer had been towed. Why? Good question!  The answer, “it goes against everything we believe in” then one statement was made to clarify the last, “we don’t believe in Hell”.  I’ll get back to this issue
shortly.

  How about the towing of the trailer? The sign read; Unauthorized parking prohibited violators will be ticketed.  Okay, so I get a $30 ticket.  But what about, 13 minutes after the ticket was written the tow company was called? Oh, so much for the pastor saying he waited more than an hour and a half.  Two hundred and eleven dollars
later, I was able to get the ministry trailer out of impound.  During which time this scripture came to mind; Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. Romans 12:19
(NKJV)

Later, that evening it was off to the local Wal-Mart and Praise God!  I had a place to park!

  On Wednesday another scripture came to mind:  Brethren, if anyone among you
wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, let him know that he who
turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover
a multitude of sins. James 5:19-20 (NKJV) 

Now it seemed right to go and park on the street directly in front of the church and
take a stand for the truth.  So with God’s Word in hand and the prop raised, “Don’t Come Here” that’s what was done. Before, during and until after their Wednesday public meeting concluded many people were presented the truth. I’m still praying that God will use that effort to bring some to the knowledge of the truth. Amen. 

Don't Come Here! Prop

Thursday was a day of rest in hope of finishing out the week strong. 

God did it again as Friday it was game on!  So around, across and downtown the banner of Jesus Christ was flown, the gospel shared, brethren encouraged and prayed for.

 It was much the same on Saturday, concluding outside of the Capitol building.

Capitol of Wisconsin 2012

This week has been different to say the least. What I experienced here was a liberal spirit, the reproach of the cross, the exhortation to be acceptant of all ways. 
The exception being God’s Way, which of course is extremely prescriptive,
difficult and only a few find it.

   My fondest memories of this past week are of a few Christians I met and how in the Spirit of Truth and Love we encouraged one another, shared testimonies and prayed one for another.  On the outside there was nothing of our appearance to be admired by men, but to brethren the beauty is readily seen and the Joy of meeting one another is beyond words. Thank you; Jo (Not ashamed of the gospel!), Michael (Singing Praises to God 6 years now around the Capitol building) and Steve (Wal-Mart) for extending the Love of Christ to me along The Journey 50 States One True Story Jesus!

Brother Jo, Thanks again! Madison, Wisconsin 2012

Another week has already begun and the start is much better than the last.  So to everyone back home in Virginia and to those abroad I say thank you for your prayers and support. Keep praying because I’m realizing the benefits. I believe the road ahead will be rough but much more I am sure; “that greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world”.  And “it’s no longer I who live but Christ that lives in me”.  Amen. 

  God willing, I’ll write to you again about this time next week.    Agape, David

Praise the Lord for another week of blessings.

Well it was off to northeast Indiana and I must say that I was taken back while driving through Gary, Indiana.  The whole city was desolate and crumbling.  Homes, commercial buildings, schools, city government buildings and the roads were shocking.  How can this be in the USA?  What else could have this resulted from except misappropriation and corruption!  Think of the people still here in their hometown and what about the youth?  Please pray that God would send lots people like the ones that I wrote about last week in Indianapolis at the urban café.

Later I settled in Schererville / Merrillville, Indiana.   I had the good pleasure of meeting Brother Rick who is the son in-law of the pastor at Community Baptist Church.  Through whom I met Pastor Bob Mitchell just prior to the 6:00 pm service.  What a reception, not only did they provide for me a place to stay but they insisted I park up front in full view of everyone passing by!  Wow, a church that’s more concerned about reverence for God rather than being relevant to the post modern world.  What a way to begin the week!

On Monday I finished my post mid afternoon and then about 4pm I secured the prop upright in the bed of the truck and set out to get stuck in traffic.  No, that was not a typo.  Think about it from my vantage point or driver’s seat: Hey people can’t help but to look and in traffic maybe read some of what is written right?  But, what if one of them can’t read?  To me that could be viewed as discriminatory. So why not read it to them and the amplified version for the hearing impaired.  Amen?  Well you may relax because I forgot to take the microphone with me.  So I had to change the plan just a little, instead of speaking to a captive audience I decided to pull over, turn the hazard
lights on and sit on the side of the freeway until the traffic cleared.  Remember it’s about numbers.

One Way Truth & Life One Death Resurrection & Hope JESUS!

Next, off to a couple of the local Walmart parking lots.  I decided to use the prop set upright in the back of the truck.  This was very effective, so much that I stayed out past 10:30pm.

On Tuesday evening I set out for traffic again except this time I did not forget the microphone.  I set a small amplifier in the sliding rear window and trusted the Lord to give me courage and the Words to speak.  God gave me the courage to speak about the only true and lasting hope there is for a lost and dying world. That is reconciliation between God and man through the finished work of Jesus Christ on the Cross!
Amen.

On Wednesday evening I attended service at my host church.  Again I was received in the Love of Christ. Not long after the service started Pastor Bob said, “David come up front”.  I wasn’t sitting near the back, which meant come and speak!  Then he asked me to share a little about how this ministry came about and what it was.  Then he said that I had 5 minutes!  Well anyone who knows me would probably say that would be a miracle in itself (ha ha). So, I shared with them a little about the ministry but more importantly
encouraged them to get up and go sharing Jesus Christ!

How about this Business - Not Ashamed of Jesus Christ!

Thursday at Panera, I met Brother Angelo and we spent the better of three hours together.  Then off to share Jesus, on the way across town someone in the other lane motioned for me to roll down the window.  When I did the man said can we buy you dinner?   So I followed this dear couple and we had a great time of fellowship in the Lord.  Afterwards another great evening sharing Jesus.

Friday , I hooked up the ministry trailer for a big evening on the town “Disciple Style”.  I
mentioned meeting brother Angelo last evening, well he had given me a few contacts so I made a couple of calls and not long after; Brothers Ken, George and Angelo where on the scene.  Over the next few hours we set up at four different locations and had a great time witnessing, encouraging and praying for many.  Wow, this is how I had hoped it would be in every town.  These men belonged to different local churches but all of them are passionate about evangelism.  I will long hold on to the memory of this night.  Thanks, Ken George and Angelo!

Saturday evening and night was incredible.  I set the paradise prop up and went to
town.  Talk about causing rubber necking and traffic jams!  Displaying the Cross and Promise of Eternal Life through Jesus Christ drew many believers and spectators.  Sharing testimonies, camera flashes one after another, rejoicing in the Lord and simply being unashamed of Jesus Christ!  Opposition yelled out and was gone (no power).  Praise God!  What a way to close out street ministry here in Merrillville / Schererville.

Wow, Check out the images in the windows!

Sunday morning per invitation from Ken, I went to speak at Victory Christian Church in Portage, Indiana.  Wow, the praise and worship was off the hook!  When it came time to speak there was no apprehension at all.  And no time limit either!  Sharing some of what God has done and is doing in my life, then a little bit of preaching, challenging and encouraging the brethren.  Think about this;   The Jesus we say we believe in, we quote
verses like; “greater is He that is in us, than he that is in the world” and we sing; “all to the my blessed Savior I surrender all”.   The Challenge then; let us in word and deed
live out this hope we have in full view of the World.  That we may be hear our Master saying, “Father, these are those who were Not Ashamed of Me in the World”.         Praise God!   Amen.

This week the Lord made me to abound in numerous ways; He provided a beautiful and safe place to lay my head, He has given me courage, He has increased my faith, He has provided for all my needs and He has provided for the unexpected which no one but He and I knew about. (Now, I fight back tears in remembrance of all the dear brethren God used this past week to do so).   So you may know, the last several days have been in the upper 80’s and 90’s.  The air conditioning in my truck has not been working and has been a bit of a challenge as I have a degree of heat intolerance due to MS.  Leaving northern Indiana with fond memories and full of joy, I drove through South Chicago, then right through the heart of Downtown Chicago in heavy traffic and then finally on to interstate 90.  After 4.5 hours driving in mid to upper ninety degree weather I arrived in Madison Wisconsin (looking somewhat like a salted pretzel).  I stopped to get a sandwich and a drink.  When I reached into my pocket I felt a bit of cash which I had completely forgotten about.  This had been handed to me, as a gift from Victory Christian Church earlier in the evening.  When I got to the table I counted more than
Seven hundred dollars!  Wow, Praise God!!  Thank You:  Victory Christian Church!  (A/C repair!)

As I wrote above, “This week the Lord made me to abound in numerous ways; He provided a beautiful and safe place to lay my head, He has given me courage, He has increased my faith, He has provided for all my needs”:  Thank you, Angelo, George
and Ken you all have been an encouragement to me in many ways and I will not
soon forget the Honor it was to serve the Lord together.  Thanks to every brother and sister I met this week in northwest Indiana because the Joy of this week has made some of the past disappointments fade away!

A new week has begun and I close this writing to say again; Thanks to everyone who has been a blessing to me at home and abroad!  I’m very sure that through God, each and every one of you has better prepared me to continue:

The Journey 50 States One True Story JESUS!

Agape, David Banton

Brother Tony NY, I'm thinking this might work for you uh?

Indianapolis, Indiana 2012

Arriving safe in the evening, I  attended 6:00 pm service at a local reformed Baptist Church.  Later, I was blessed to park overnight at Indiana Theological Seminary. The next morning I parked the trailer behind a Baptist Church and left a message for the pastor along with contact information. I spent most of Monday writing about the previous week in Cincinnati.

Monument Circle

Starting Monday evening and continuing through Wednesday, I encountered various trials which really had me wondering if it would be better for me to go to an unreached people group.  I mean the indifference to the Cross but much more these three days the rejection and scorn issued from two pastors. On Monday a pastor sent me a text thanking me for giving a card to his wife during the Sunday evening service as it afforded Him the opportunity to contact me. He wrote how he was shocked when He saw my truck and the graphics and felt it was his duty to tell me that I was walking in the flesh, not the spirit and was committing Idolatry. (citing Exodus 20:4)   Then Tuesday the pastor of the church where my ministry trailer was parked called me to say; He had reviewed my website and discovered that I didn’t quote every scripture from the same scroll. (KJV)  He went on to say, if anyone found this on my website it would look like his church was consenting and I needed to move it.  So, without any objection I did.

Not Welcome!

On Wednesday I responded to the invitation meeting with the pastor after the evening service so I could be instructed about the idolatry issue.  I prepared an exegesis along with commentary references on Exodus 20:4-5. Per request I did not drive onto the property and before the service I was told that I would not be permitted to participate in the payer portion of the service.  After the service we met and His position was that the cross itself was a graven image and the images were all idolatry.  I offered Him the material I had prepared and He would not touch it.  Nor did He have any references to offer in support of his indictment.  During the drive home I was really discouraged and wondering am I really missing it or what.  So, I cried out to God,  then to others for prayer and counsel from my pastor. That night, a brother in Louisville, KY encouraged me, a sister in Colonial Heights, VA responded with Psalm 23 advising that I quote it until I went to sleep and when I awoke there was a written response from my pastor.   Praise God, the lifter of my head!

So Thursday it was game on.  That evening I set up at a local Walmart, played worship music along with some video footage from the, “Passion of The Christ movie”.    I shared the gospel with my friend Donsae, encouraged and prayed for many.  This just may have been the most fruitful of the parking lot gigs to date.  Talk about Gods faithfulness to lift burdens and bless us if we walk by faith and not by sight.

My Friend Donsae, Don't miss JESUS!

Friday it was off to the Indy race track during practice for the Indianapolis 500.  Afterwards I set up in a different Walmart.   This was another memorable experience.  Here I met minister Horatio and what a blessing this was. I mean Rejoicing in the Lord, Encouraging each other in the Word and Prayer!  This was so good that it was no bother when a Deputy Sheriff walked up and said, Walmart wants you to move on.

Meet Horacio. Thanks Brother!

That night, I was reflecting on how God had moved through many people in the last 36 hours to bless me.  I started to laugh because the thought that entered my mind was:  You (David) can’t out bless God.  What I mean is, that if against all odds I’ll trust God and go on boasting about Jesus, then God is going to awe me time and again till the end of this age and in all of eternity!  Now, that’s an awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwsome blessing!  Amen.

Saturday, I enjoyed fellowship at the Unleavened Bread Cafe with Brother Neil and friends.  It was beautiful to see how God has and is working through a few of His children to bring Love and Hope to a location that might otherwise be written off.  Next, it was domestic duties such as housekeeping and laundry.  Afterwards, I thought I’d call it an early night but the Lord had other plans so downtown Indy to Monument Circle.  Saturday night this place was bustling with people on the sidewalks and vehicles on parade around the monument.  Get this; the Lord blessed me with the perfect parking place at the corner Market Rd and Monument Cr!  Just after parking I walked a block to find out what a Chocolate Café was about.  Wow, my brother Tony NY in Chester, VA would probably overdose here.  I enjoyed a lemon custard milkshake on the way back to the truck.

Monument Circle Indianapolis, Indiana 2012

Then a brother helped me setup the prop in the bed of the truck.  Over the next 3.5 hours hundreds of people were confronted with immortality and at the same time God’s Offer of Reconciliation through the work of Jesus Christ on the Cross.  The
expressions both verbal and nonverbal were countless and what a joy it was close out the week in this way.

Thank you brother Niel Cox and South-port Presbyterian Church for graciously providing a place for me to rest.  I think God for all the brethren back home and abroad that have and continue to support me prayerfully and or financially.  Thank’s to each and every person I encountered this week in Indianapolis, Indiana across the spectrum from positive to negative.  This I say because, I know  that God uses all things to better prepare me to continue The Journey 50 States One True Story JESUS!

Until next week, God willing that is: I will write to you again.            Agape, david

JESUS Died that You may Live!!!