Wow! The journey continues as I’m close to completing the 8th stop of 200 with this one ending Monday 6-7-2010.

On 5-31-2010 I left Chicago with no regrets. I will miss my newly found family members but I did not have to say goodbye but rather until we meet again. As I traveled on Monday I happened on a very interesting site at the Petro Truck Stop in Rochelle, IL. That was a Tractor Trailer that has been converted into a chapel and is open 24/7. Hey that’s pretty cool. It at least made me feel a little bit better about being radical. Please don’t get me wrong because I know for sure that I was made by GOD to be just that RADICAL and even though it may not look like it at times it is very challenging. I thank GOD that HE is providing for me all the way. So it is that I have no regrets and much hope for what is to come now and in the future as I strive to answer HIS call.

So on to Moline, Illionois. On Tuesday I went to the mall and over the speaker I heard, David Banton come to the mall office. Or did I hear right was my thought. So I went to the mall office and was told that I needed to report to my vehicle. So I did and upon arrival I was greeted by mall security and was told that I had to take the Cross off my truck or leave. First of all thats not going to happen. So after about 15 minutes of respectfully and delicate discussion I was granted permission to park at the mall that day and any day for the next 6 days that I may want to come back. This with the stipulation presented but not agreed to that I would not talk about JESUS while at the mall. I know what you must be thinking. What about Constitutional Rights and all. Exactly my thoughts, its just that I’ve learned to hold my tongue as to be as the Bible says, “we are to be as wise as serpents and as gental as doves”. Make no mistake about it as I will take a direct stand for the rights that generations have fought for in this country.

Set up downtown in Rock Island, Illinois

Later on tuesday a young man approached me while I was sitting in my truck outside of the Walmart. Wow what a pleasent surpise as he was one of 6 evangelist from Wisconsin. They were in town at Grace Baptist Church for the express purpose of training others in instructing youth to share the gospel. So thats how I came to be invited to participate in fellowship and then to go with them in the evenings door to door and then we went into the streets to preach. The wisdom and the dedication that these young adults displayed was truely inspiring to me.

Baptist Evangelist Team from Wisconsin

Oh and for the first time in this journey Two things happened; The gospel was preached from the back of The Jesus Truck and many were fed at the same time. (See picture).

Preaching & Feeding from the, "JESUS" Truck!

I also had the honor or spending time with Pastor Chris of Grace Baptist Church who actually took to the streets going door to door in an effort to lead others to JESUS. Much I learned from him and members of Grace Baptist Church. Now I know better the value of whats called; Evangelical Church. I think all churchs should place such an emphasis on evangelism for the sake of winning souls many times over increasing the membership numbers. (Ouch).

I now make mention of a couple local businesses that have blessed me here;
The staff at Starbucks, Denny’s and Family Christian Book Store (Especially Kristi who gave sacrificially and invited me to Saturday and Sunday Services at Edgewood Baptist Church).

Saturday service was remarkedly special as to the praise and worship was awesome and the message was about being bold for JESUS! Anyone who knows much of me will know that I would appreciate this service. Oh and the average age of those attending was about 21years old.

Sunday service proved to be just as special so I say that if you happen to be near Moline, Illinois stop and pay a visit at either or both Grace Baptist Church in Moline, and Edgewood Baptist Church in Rock Island, Illinois.

In closing, I have been made welcome by many in the towns of Moline and Rock Island. As I reflect on many of the things that I have expierenced in the State of Illinois, I would not trade them as I have no regrets. The hard occurrences and blessings alike have made me better able to demonstrate the Love of Jesus and this to iinclude how to stand strong in spiritual warfare.

Please that I may encourage you with the passage from Zec. 4:6 Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. So it is that we depend on the Lord everyday and in doing so we still will be ehausted at times.
So then another passage comes to mind, Matt. 19:26 But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

So now, God willing I move on to the State of Iowa and will be updating you all about next week at this time.

Thank you all for your prayers as I believe that because of them I have recieved from God the strength to continue on. We go together on this journey, sharing JESUS with many, all to the Glory of GOD!!!

Agape, david

Contact Email: david@hiscall888.com

For Ministry Information, Call Kris @ (502) 594-0451

  Wow, how time flies as stop #7 of 200 is now in the history books with 193 to go.
Each stop to date has shown itself to be distinctly different and Chicago is a really Big City, at least to me. Chicago has the same elements of most cities just somewhat oversized. So many more people than I had imagined to date and all of them needing JESUS!!!  Much to my dismay from the very first day and thereafter the rolling billbord and the cross were met with laughter, mockery and scorn. It was evident that I had left the Bible Belt and Oh, how I missed the power of the Cross that drew so many in days past. So much for the icebreaker that I had come to depend on.  Now it seemed much more was left up to me and I had become somewhat discouraged at my frail attempts. Now I have seen more clearly, how small I am and how much more I’m dependent on GOD for all things!

Chicago Downtown

 On Wednesday I was a bit refreshed as I attended prayer service at The Moody Church.  There I met many brothers and sisters that encouraged me and that was exactly what the doctor ordered.

  Then I went back to the streets of downtown Chicago and by the way did I tell you it’s a really Big City? People going in every direction all looking for something and sadly I say it was not JESUS, this at least not to my discernment. On most every corner was a street act of some sort, all of which took a degree of talent and boldness. (See picture).

Chicago Street Talent (Robotics)

 So I took to the streets to share JESUS by way of using every business technique I had learned, this just to get people to look at me and then to take the message of the gospel by way of a tract. Since many would not accept the smile and kind words along with the gospel tract, I decided to try another way to share JESUS. Have I told you that the name of my home Sunday school class is, Bold Witness? Okay I’ll get on with the story. I stood near the corner where dozens of people gathered to wait about 2 minutes and twelve seconds for the walk sign to flash so they could cross the street. So can you say; speak loud and share the Gospel in about 2 minutes? Well that was easy to say, how about you try it? Please if I may suggest that you use a gospel tract as a outline as this will help one stay on task despite the best attempts of hecklers to disrupt the message. And that I may not lead you to believe otherwise, I did this less than a dozen times and was exhausted. I believe much in part was due to the stress involved mentally (staying focused) and more the stress of speaking loudly with Passion and Love! I’m sure that if I did this on a regular basis it would help. Please pray that I will allow the Holy Spirit to use me this way more often. Thank you!

  By the way I miss my brother; The Street Warrior (Kris) from Louisville, Kentucky and I ask you all to pray that GOD will send more like Him or even better ones to join ranks along the narrow way!! (I added that part about better ones just in case Kris reads this as not to cause his head to swell).  Thanks again!

  This week there came no rain to slow me down. It was the lack of Christians that had taken it’s toll on me.  Thank GOD that on Saturday I met up with such a man and was told of a local church body that was purely evangelical.  So on Sunday I attended Worship Service at, North Suburban Evangelical Free Church. (Try writing that each week on your offering check.) Sorry about that, anyway the corporate worship is what I was first taken by.  Not that it was a big emotional show, but rather an intimate unity gathering of praise to GOD The Father, JESUS The Son and The HOLY SPIRIT.  Then without much to do the Message was given by Pastor Dick Loizeaux which was entitled: Surviving a Spiritual High.  This to do with coming down from the Mountain Top expierence with GOD to living in the Valley and sharing the Glory of GOD with others all the while remembering the Mountain Top expierence to keep us going in the valley. Can you see just how appropriate this message and the timing of it was for me.  Sounds like GOD to me! Then the service finished as it started, with intimate worhip. Afterwards I was privileged to meet many more brothers and sisters that I did’nt have to seek out. (Which I don’t mind seeking)  I left with much more than I came with and then to top it off, I received a phone call from one of the members that I had met only an hour or two earlier and was invited to their home for dinner. Wow thats cool and by the way I said, Yes!

 Now 6 hours later:  Thank GOD for Charles and Christina.  The fellowship that for days I’ve longed for.  This and the home cooking too!

Charles and Christina

P.S. My impression was that this Church body has a passion for GOD and mankind that is most Christ like. (Please if you may have the opportunity visit this local church body and see for yourself.   northsub.com)

P.S.S. They are looking for a fulltime pastor as they have been without for months.

  Now I make ready to travel northwest of Chicago for my 4th and final stop in Illinois. I do not know where the next stop will be, but God willing I will update you about this time next week.

  The week here has come and gone and unlike the others past I do not find it hard to leave.   But I take stock in the fact that I have been light and salt and that GOD will provide the increase.  I have much hope that someday soon I will see the result of the efforts made here. To GOD, Be the Glory now and forever!!!  Amen

  May the LORD bless You, keep You and make HIS Face to Shine upon You! In the name of JESUS! Amen.

Agape, david

Contact Email: david@hiscall888.com

For Ministry Information, Call Kris @ (502) 594-0451

Lincoln/Springfield, Illinois #6 of 200

  Hello, week #6 is in the history books.  In Lincoln I have been made to feel close to home.  In this town I received the welcome from Law enforcement and the Fire department.  A police officer noticed that the wheel of my bicycle was bent and summoned a 20 year veteran fire fighter who came quickly to straighten the rim.  He took the liberty of adjusting the brakes as well.  He also made me feel at home to use the fire station as needed.  The local businesses that I visited were very hospitable as well.

  On Tuesday I was well received by the directors of Lincoln Christian University.  I was privilaged to attend a very special time of prayer and worship with the graduating alumni.

  For the most part, the local Walmart proved to be my mission field for Wednesday and Thursday.  There I met alot of people; some Christians, some with puzzled looks on their faces,  some that had to look away and then some with scorn.

  Late Thursday evening I relocated to Springfield, Illinois.  There were still people downtown after 5:00pm.  I was enjoying walking the streets of downtown and sharing JESUS. While on a search to find a cup of coffee I was blessed to happen on a Christian fundraising event known as; Lifetime Pregnancy Help Center.  I was invited to stay even though I was not a registered guest. (It was the JESUS connection that got me in the door with coffee provided).   I was very impressed at the impact that a few people with a vision to help women chose Life could have when outside resources are provided.  Testimonies brought tears of  joy to my eyes more than once.  So I encourage you to get involved with the talents and or resources that you have so as to make a difference in the name of JESUS!!!   (info@lifetimephc.org)

Springfield Capitol of Illinois

  Friday I was back to downtown Springfield and broke bread with the homeless.  GOD has put another burden on my heart.  Now I desire to make even better use of the time as I travel.  This to reach out to feed the poor as I share JESUS!!!  So I hope soon to be able to purchase a fold up grill so to be able to cook hot dogs on the back of my truck, hand out bottled water and gospel tracts to as many people that will come 2 days a week.  So please pray that GOD will provide.

Saturday I went to Bloomingdale, Illinois in hope of finding a good parking place at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum as tens of thousands were coming to see a Brooks and Dunn concert.  Guess what?  I arrived just in time to get an up front corner parking space 30 yards from the Main Entrance. I was so excited and hurried to get something to eat.  I was back in time to meet the crowds with a smile and a gospel tract.  I estimate that I was able to deliver about 700.  Wow!  Forty dollars to park now seemed much more than reasonable.  Still I left pained as thousands turned from the smile and I suppose it was more from the cross that was on the front of my shirt than from me personaly.  Still I want everyone to come to JESUS and can only begin to imagine how JESUS Himself felt being rejected.

  Now on to happier things.  Thank GOD for Sundays!!!  Well let me back up please.  On Wednesday, because someone was so moved by The JESUS truck,  that I was introduced to Pastor Glenn Shelton of 2nd Baptist Church in Lincoln, Illinois.  We shared testimonies and had like Passions for JESUS and a burden for others. I doubt there was much if any quiet time for the better part of an hour.  Pastor Shelton asked me what I was doing Sunday.  I told him that I was going to church somewhere but that I did not know where yet as I had not been invited.  So he said why don’t you come here, now you’ve been invited.  So just as I accepted, Pastor Shelton said, I would like you to preach if you want to.

  Then came Sunday, so by invitation I attended Sunday School and Worship Service at 2nd Baptist Church.  There I received a warm reception and was made to feel as welcome as a member.  We had a beautifull time of fellowship.  We all had the benefit of being taught by a well learned disciple of JESUS Christ.  On to the main service, which much to my delight was not set to the schedule of a clock as to the duration.  Many in attendance gave praise reports and some made their prayer request known.  This went on and on, much to my delight.  Then Pastor Shelton introduced me and the rest is as you say history.  I said it this way as to not preach to you this week.  However if you would like me to just ask!  Anyway, I was invited to come back anytime so all must have gone pretty well.  Oh, I forgot to mention that the service let out about 1:45 pm. (That’s almost 3 hours and I’ll leave it at that, maybe).   My recommendation is that if you happen to be anywhere close to Lincoln on a Sunday please go by and meet your brothers and sisters there. (Unless of course you need to be at the Cracker Barrel before the rush. Ha Ha Ha)!

  Now I make ready to travel to Chicago, Illinois in a few hours.  I will be taking a detour for 7 days in that I will be flying out of Chicago back home.  This because I miss my family and friends there as well as having some business that needs to be taken care of.  So God willing I will update you about this time the week after next week, when I finish in Chicago.

Thank you all for your prayers and other support!

May the LORD bless You, keep You and make HIS Face to Shine upon You! In the name of JESUS!  Amen.

Agape, david

Contact Email: david@hiscall888.com

For Ministry Information Call;
Call Kris @ (502) 594-0451

Wow! Stop #5 of 200 draws to an end and what a relief this Marion, Illinois has been to me.  Just what I suppose the Great Physician ordered as a antidote for the effects of Louisville, KY.
  On Tuesday May 4th, I was privilaged to attend a worship service @ Rent One Park.  This is an Outdoor baseball stadium, the name of the event was Bridging the Gap for Christ and drew more than 1500 people, most of which were ages 12-18.  Praise and Worship was lead by 5 different bands and about as many guest speakers shared JESUS!  Wow what a sight to behold!  I parked the rolling billboard for Jesus near the entry and added another feature to share the gospel.  I set a 32″ high definition flatscreen T.V. on the top of the cab and played the Passion of the Christ movie for 6 hours.

HDTV on Truck.

  Yes pretty radical I know but if you could have seen the impact then you would know better than I can write or tell how much it is worth to be radical for JESUS!!!

 
  By Wednesday I was feeling a bit dicouraged as I had introduced myself to about 6 different churches only to be put off on someone else.  I came to encourage my brothers and sisters and had the hope of being connected with some that would go out into the highways and byways to share JESUS.  To date it has been more times than not that it has been in the streets that I have found Christian brothers and Sisters.  This week it was at the Refuge Truck Stop in Marion that I found brothers and sisters that I love and I believe they love me as much as biological kin.  The Dryden family were among those that I write about.

The Drydens and Friend holding me up!

  Matt Dryden and family invited me to stay at there place and made me feel at home.  Matt’s Mom and Dad lived on the same 120 acres in a Barn!!!  Before you go feeling sorry for them, Don’t.  It’s structerally more sound that most of the finest homes built today, the floor plan in very open and flows well and may I mention it shows much like a tourist attraction.  Just inside the main barn door, one is greeted by a wooden Cross inlaided in the floor.  And the food that was served was of such that If I were to stay any lenght of time, I suppose I would get as big as a barn!  Oh, has anyone else ever heard of or had pork steaks?  Well I did and they were as good as ribeye steaks with less fat.  I could go on and on but for the sake of your time and mine I will end this by sayin that if you ever find yourself in the Marion Illionios area it would be good to visit the Dryden family.   (Matt Dryden (303) 810-1358). 

  On Sunday per invitation of Jeff whom I meet out and about I went to Stonefort Missionary Baptist Church for worship service.  After being introduced to the congregation by Jeff ,  Pastor Keith Bunfill asked me to come forward and share with them about the mission I was on.  So I did and then I was offered the pulpit to preach! It was with fear and trembling that I opened in prayer and then delivered a sermon entitled;  Does JESUS Know You? 

 The text;
 Mathew 7:13-14 and 7:21-24. 13 Enter ye in at the straita gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: 14 Becauseb strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.  22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
  The Holy Bible  : King James Version.

  Verses 21-23 are probably the most frightening verses in the whole Bible, that is to me and I hope that it is the same to You!  I believe this is speaking to the majority of professing christians.  Ones that may one day say things like;  But Lord Lord I went to church most every Sunday, I went on Wednesdays, I tithed, I gave sacrificially of my time and resources in Your Name.  And JESUS will say, “I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”

  Please cry out to GOD that you will not be one of these!  Beg of GOD until HE answers to assure you that it may not be so for You!  Please put aside everything that you have and or still esteem more than GOD’S gift of pardon for you, that through The Shed Blood of HIS only begotten Son,  JESUS CHRIST’S crucifiction on that tree (Cross) which was payment in full that if You! believe, repent and are baptised into new life (born again). 

  Then you may be saved if you surrender to JESUS as a Slave to JESUS as LORD then you will have One dominant Passion above all others and that is to LOVE your neighbor as yourself and You will find nothing of more interest to talk about than, It is only by the Grace of GOD that you have any hope and that the same Hope is offered to all Men that will fall at the foot of the Cross so that they may tranverse the Only bridge to GOD the Father and inherite LIFE Everlasting in the presence of JESUS CHRIST!!!       Amen and Amen!

  I really did not know I was going to preach to you but I’m glad I did.  Anyway the congregation of about two dozen sent me off with words of appreciation and encouragement as well as $118.00. (I went to encourage and give, then GOD faithfully provided for my gas and food to get to my next stop today which is Lincoln, Illinois).

  So my week here has come to an end and I have only mentioned a few of the people, businesses, places and things that have truly been a blessing to me.

  Just a short note to say that satan and his minions have been steady at work but JESUS has Prevailed!!!

  May the LORD bless You, keep You and make HIS Face to Shine upon You!  In the name of JESUS!  Amen.
Agape, david

Contact Email: david@hiscall888.com

For Ministry Information Call;
Call Kris @ (502) 594-0451

Bald Knob Mountain Cross.

Kentucky Derby Mission Field!

Wow, how time flys as stop #4 of 200 is now in the history books with 196 to go.

Each stop to date has been multifaceted and it is much of the same that I expect as I continue the journey.  Some of those facets being in stark contrast to one another; beauty and uglyness,  joy and sorrows, encouragment and opposition. 

During my stay in Louisville I was pressed on many occasions to look for and remember the Beauty, Joy and Encouragement as those things that are opposing these seemed to be many more.  I will leave you hanging with this for just a little while so please read on.

  Louisville is a Big City, at least as compared to Cumberland, Lexington and Frankfort Kentucky.  Louisville has the same elements of most big cities.
From the very first day the rolling billbord and the cross were met with approval and then in large part it stirred many to express strong opposition. 

On Tuesday, Wednesday and again on Thursday I had been told, where the JESUS truck could not be and that I could not even talk about JESUS if I came on the property.  These were all places that the general public are drawn to by means of media advertising.  It was specifically the One True Story of JESUS that was banned.  Those of you that know me will find it easy to believe that I did’nt just pack up and go until it was the last moment as I came to share JESUS and even these people need HIM too!  When I did leave I found a way to come back and share JESUS! 

 No I did’nt go to jail, but I would have if it I thought it would have been seen across the board in good light.

  By Thursday evening the opposition had taken a heavy toll on me.  I was mentally, physically and spiritually exhausted.  Yes I said spiritually exhausted as I had a whole new perspective on spiritual warfare! (Mt 11:12  And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force.  King James Version)

  I thank God that, “HE” had gone before me as just when I felt that I could not go on, “HE” sent me an encourager and then a Warrior who has for years been fighting this battle.  So the Warrior (Kris) and I joined ranks and the battle continued and we saw the power of the cross having much effect on many people.   Thus from the very first day with reports of the rolling billboard and the cross being seen on the local news, to being driven through and around the heart of downtown Louisville several times and days, the same at the University of Louisville,  Churchill Downs ( Location of the Kentucky Derby.)

 Along the Derby Festival Parade route and through the outskirts of town. (North, East, South and West.)  The banner has been flown and the Gospel of Jesus Christ has been shared with thousands of people. 
  Oh and day after day with feet on the streets, on sidewalks, in parking lots and in businesses the Love of GOD was proclaimed!

   This week the rain came Saturday just in time to slow us down so we could catch our breath and have much needed fellowship.  My new found Brother/Warrior Kris and his wife Cindy proved to be an invaluable gift from GOD as to partner with and did provide for me a place to rest my head with the atmosphere of home.  Oh and Cindy’s cooking? Wow!  Yet in all of this, it is their commitment to  JESUS Christ and their overwelming Love for all people that I was most taken by.  So if you are in the Louisville area you would do well to look them up. (ks1063@aol.com)

  Let me back up to Wednesday.  Per invitation I attended Worship Service at First Gethsemane Baptist Church.(Which by appearance was predominatly African American.)  They were celebrating their Centennial Anniversary.  Special guest were Dr. Walter Malone Jr. and Canaan Christian Church.  Wow, first of all I’ve never experienced such passionate and powerful corporate worship!  The building was shaking and this went on for about an hour.   This to be followed by Dr. Malone delivering maybe the most full bodied sermon that I’ve heard in person to date!  And this lasting about an hour.  Then the icing on the cake if you will was the number of people that came forward during the invitation to accept JESUS Christ as Savior and Lord!!!

  Again I say Wow, now it makes much sense to me in that when in the past I’ve seen in movies and such little African American churches down south, the people sweating and using hand fans to try to cool off.  Well yes even with air conditioning one may need the use of hand fans to cool off if one exerting so much passion in worship and was so moved by such powerfull preaching of the WORD of GOD!!!  Even in these written words, I have been unable to justly illustrate this time of Worship. (So you would do well in visiting this Church body.)

  Then came Sunday, so by invitation of Brother Kris I attended Sunday School and Worship Service at Hikes Point Christian Church.  Where I received a warm reception and was made to feel as welcome as a member.  We had a beautifull time of fellowship.  We all had the benefit of being taught by a well learned disciple of JESUS Christ.  On to the worship service, which much to my delight we all sang many songs of praise and worship.  Then Pastor Scottie Richmond, preached the WORD in Truth and in Love.  My impression was that this Church body is very close if not at the top of my list of churches that appear to be most biblically correct in this day that we live. (Please if you may have the opportunity visit this local church body and see for yourself.)

  Now I make ready to travel to the State of Illinois in about an hour from now.  I do not know where the first stop in will be, but God willing I will update you about this time next week.

  The week here has come and gone and as like the others past I find it hard to leave.  But I take stock in the fact that I have met many new found brothers and sisters and that we shall meet once again to praise and worship our Lord and Savior JESUS Christ!!!

  May the LORD bless You, keep You and make HIS Face to Shine upon You!  In the name of JESUS!  Amen.

Agape, david

P.S. More Pictures to be uploaded Soon!

Email: david@HisCall888.com

Angelica from Michigan.

Anthony & Friend @ Waterfront Park Louisville

Wow again!  Upon arrival in the State Capitol of Kentucky, I was impressed by the charm and beauty of both the people and the ruralness of the Capitol city.  As I rounded a curve there was a scenic pullover that proved to be much more than I expected.  Across the way and a little below stood the impressive Capitol Building.  Later upon closer inspection I marveled at the tulip beds that graced the main drive.

  From the very first day the rolling billbord and the cross were met with a welcoming responce in large part  across the board this in respect to age, gender, race and social status.  (of coarse their were exceptions).

  The historic downtown area proved to be my favorit area to share Jesus.  I had the pleasure of meeting encouraging and being encouraged by many of locals and travelers alike.   The rain came and put a damper on sharing Jesus in the Town Square. (They really have one to this day).

  By Saturday I was feeling just a slight bit discouraged but then Sunday came and my joy was ressurected as I attended Worship Service at Thornhill Baptist Church.  Pastor Gary Beatty preached about Worshipping to please GOD and not Men.  Most all of the congregation took the time to come up to me after the service to introduce themselves and to encourage me.  This was in contrast to say most everyone heading straightway out the back door, maybe hoping to beat the crowd to Cracker Barrell. (Ha! Ha! Ha!)     I was invited to lunch by a young man named Eli, so I said yes only later to find out that he was’nt paying.  Eli’s Dad was and I was so glad because it was a family of 6.  By the way Eli is 8 years old.  It was such a pleasure to have lunch and fellowship with this family as all the conversation revolved around JESUS.  Eli is the oldest of 4 childred and I did not notice any of them saying I want this or that.  They were all very well behaved much beyond their years and again they all talked about JESUS.  I could go on and on about them, suffice it for me to say that my affections are very much with them all. (see picture attached).

Later I went back to Thornhill Baptist Church for a special 6:30 worship service as presented by students from Kentucky State University entitled; KSU Gospel Chorale.  What a time of corperate worship. (Please see the picture attached; this was taken just before dark and in the rain.  My truck is almost completely blocked but if you look you may see the cross).

  So my week here has come and gone and once again It is hard to leave.  But I take stock in the fact that I have met many new found brothers and sisters and that we shall meet once again to praise and worship or Lord and Savior JESUS Christ!!!

  May the LORD bless You, keep You and make HIS Face to Shine upon You!  In the name of JESUS!  Amen.

Agape, david

Contact Email: david@HisCall888.com

The banner has been raised at The State Capitol of Kentucky!

Eli and Family (top left to right; Megan, John, Me, Carley, Eli, John Thomas & Isaac.

KSU Gospel Chorale

Check back as I have many more pictures to upload!!!

  Wow!  My the journey continues as I complete the 2nd stop of 200 on Monday 4-18-2010.  Last week I left Cumberland County KY with tears as I had and did stop along the way out to make several new friends.  I will miss my newly found family members but I did not have to say goodbye but rather until we meet again.

   As I traveled I came to an old christian book store at the Vicco County line.  The store was closed for the day but I was greeted by the 86 year young owner and his wife of many years.  I accepted the invitation to come into their home. While visiting I noticed an acoustic guitar just behind the recliner.  I made mention of it and asked the owner if he would play it for me and was told well of course but its been a long time.  Mr. McGraner proved to be very particular as he took more than 20 minutes trying to fine tune it.  Then with a smile and much joy he began to play what seemed to me to be the sweetest melody that I may have heard to date.  Only to be more blessed by His singing about his love for Jesus.  Yet the blessing did not stop there as his darling wife sang for us both and then something that had not happened to date; at there request and upon much encouragement I was privleged to join them in singing, Amazing Grace!  And during this visit I found out that Mr. Graner had been a traveling evangelist and pastor for more than 60 years. (Serving in his home state of Kentucky to Texas).  Talk about the size of Texas and it will bring to rememberance the size of this man’s and his wife’s heart for Jesus! (Please see the pictures attached.)

  Just a feww miles down the road I came to Hazzard, KY and spent the night in my tent.  This proved to be eventfull and showed itself not to be the place that I was to stay.  So I moved on about 4:30 am Tuesday morning.  It was about 9:30 am when I arrived at my second stop in the City of Lexingtonthis was at Northview  Baptist Church which is located on Bryan Station Rd. in Lexington,  KY.  I was greeted by Pastor Terry Murphy who welcomed me with the warmth and love of Jesus!  So I set literally set up camp on the rear lawn of the church.  I will fast forward to say that as of this day, I have not slept in my tent since I arrived here.  Whats more is that I arrived here with a half a tank of gas and a few dollars (less than twenty).  To date I have eaten well, burned more than a full tank of gas and stayed in 1st rate accommadations!  So for me to say GOD is good seems to be an understatement!  But GOD is Good!!! 

   I have been busy every day here about my Heavenly Father’s business. (This Loving people by demonstration and in words sharing JESUS!)  On Thursday I took the time to meet Brother Herschel and Sister Bonnie Isaacs.  Wow, what a beautiful couple.  They invited me to share their home as my home and I’m so glad that I took them up on the offer as I have been so blessed as to maybe have found the couple that most closely has and continues to walk with Jesus.  What strength, wisdom and love!   What a mentor, GOD has provided in Brother Herschel.  Much have we shared and much have I been so encouraged. 

  Next I write to you about my new found Brother Harley Cannon whom I met on Wednesday the 14th, day of April during Wednesday night service.  Brother Harley is a musician and singer.  Harley and I took to the streets of Lexington to Love people and share JESUS.  We set up his keyboard in places like Kroger, St. Joseph Outpatient Diagnostic Center and Fayette Mall.  Harley played the keyboard, took request and even sang.  Did I mention that Harvey is on the level of a professional and did I mention that he was born blind?  Wow what and encouragement to me! (See the videos that I hope to soon attach.)

  In closing, I have been made welcome by many in a small town of Kentucky which is known a Lexington.  It has been with southern hospitality and beautifull scenery as the backdrop for this leg of the journey that I have come much to enjoy.  However this past week I came to miss the very small and personal county of Cumberland.  But just today; Sunday the 17th, day of April I find myself taken by the love of the the staff, members and the visitors of Northview Baptist Church.  If you happen to be in Lexington, Kentucky it would be well for you to stop by as you have Christian brothers and sisters here!

  GOD willing, until next time may you receive all that Jesus obtained for you!!! 

Agape,  David

P.S. More Pictures to be uploaded Soon!

Email: david@HisCall888.com

Snowing in April? No, its the blooms of the pear trees being carried by the wind. I'm so glad that I did not erase the picture as I thought my camera lens was dirty!

Brother Grander (Evangelist, Musician, Singer and Very Special!

Wow!  My first stop of 200 ends 4-11-2010.  I was to leave after Easter Sunday Service but all Hell came against me just 5 days prior so things went but the enemy lost.  Thank GOD that HE has given me a clear conscience before HIM! So with help I was able to leave Chesterfield Virginia on Tuesday the 6th, day of March.  I spent the first night at Dixie Caverns Campground in Virginia because I was fighting to stay awake.  I don’t know if it was due to the altitude change as last October I was diagnosed with heart disease or if it was GOD as I was blessed much in the stop over.  By the way the symptoms of the heart disease have much decreased over the six months that have passed and was confirmed by a medical doctor just two weeks ago and this without medication!  Praise GOD!!! 

  The next day my journey continued and I was able to make it to Rural Retreat, Virginia as the same symptoms occured.  Yet again I was blessed and even more so than the day before.  Rural Retreat, Virginia who knew that it even existed?  At least not me and I’m from Virginia!  A beautiful natural lake with the backdrop of the BlueRidge Mountians!  The stars did I see more vividly than before.  Did I mention that the campground was closed for the season, that I was made to be welcome and I had the place all to myself with the exception of a few fisherman, cruisers and frequent security patrols by the local and state police officers?  Looked and sounds like GOD to me!  I was blessed in that three generations of believers who worked together at Bentley’s Garage detailed my “JESUS Truck” in support of the Journey. (Pictures to be uploaded).

  Later I was welcomed into the home of Sharon Baptist Church’s Pastor and his wife; Mr. and Mrs. Jack Rutherford of Rural Retreat, Virginia.  Later I enjoyed the Wednesday night service and was made welcome by the local body in attendance there.  Then to my exclusive campsite I went and had a good nights sleep.

  On Thursday I continued on the journey.  As I approached Appalacian County, Virginia I was taken by the river that flowed alongside the roadway and stopped at the first pullover to marvel at it.  I had just recently stumbled on a feature of my new camera in that it records video with sound.  So I had what would seem to be a bright idea at the time.  I set the camera on a rock so I could go ahead of it and wave to my friends and family all the while capturing the beauty of the rushing water sound and all.  The good news is that the camera worked fine as it captured all that and more.  I hope to learn how to upload the video for you all to see soon.  Suffice it to be said that I can’t walk on water yet!  You’ll have to see the video to get the most out of it!

  Anyway Eureka I made it to the Kentucky State Line.  Only to be met with rain and darkness as I transversed  Black Mountain. (Kentucky’s Highest Elevation of more than 4,000 feet above sea level).  Surely the air at that altitude was no longer a concern of mine.  I’ve never imagined such steep inclines and winding roads and for Pete’s sake would someone buy and install guardrails for Kentucky and all that may travel by this route?  Pass the plate as I would be glad to contribute to this cause and sleep better for it!  The good news is that I made it through with GOD”S devine help despite the rain darkness and my fears.  One last thing about this particular stretch in the journey, I have a clearer understanding of the phrase; “Daniel Boone was a man, yes a real man…..”!  For all of you that did’nt get that,  just do it yourself and may GOD be with you! 

  Finally I made it to my 1st of 4 destinations in the State of Kentucky.  The name; Kingdom Come Kentucky State Park! Wow sounds like GOD again and maybe now things will smooth out or not!  Not so fast, signs everywhere warning of the numerous Black Bear inhabitants with reports of sightings more days of the year than not!  The demands of my Faith are now stretched even further than before.  Then again it makes sense as I just transversed Black Mountain and it would seem to take the likes of Daniel Boone to live in Kentucky so that rules out the vast majority of Human beings.  So maybe GOD did in  large part make it for the Black Bears to enjoy! Yikes, I have no problem yeilding to the seemingly right of way of the Black Bears!  What do you think?  Wait a minute please, you go there first and then comment.

  None the less just before dark the rain stopped, the air was so clean and then I set up my fortress for the night. Can you say a 6′x6′ tent?  Okay can you imagine sleeping in it? Okay well I did sleep in it and quite soundly at that all the while depending on GOD and a 12 gauge shotgun to keep me safe.  Well atleast you may be able to count on getting the truth from me!

  At this pace I may still be at my 1st of 200 destinations a week from now so I’ll try to speed it up as to stay on schedule.

  As for Kentucky to date, Wow the Bible says that the Heavens declare the Glory of God and of course they do.  It’s just easier to see it when you’re almost 1 mile closer to it!  Further more I submit to you that the Earth and the fullness there of as now seen by me in the State of Kentucky, declare the Glory of GOD!

  So it is that my foot steps have been ordered by the LORD and that is how I came to this place.  To be refreshed after the hardships endured during the preparation phase of following the LORD’S will for my life.  Also I came to encourage fellow believers and to be a light into a dark world that some may be saved by the demonstrated Love of JESUS Christ in and through me.  Little did I know that I would happen on such a place as this in Kentucky and much less at the very first stop on the journey.  In this community I was and still am taken by the numerous ways GOD is working here.  No wonder HE sent me here first to be refreshed.  The missionary mindset here is overwelming in a great way.  I believe that if our country would once again acknowledge the foundational principles as of our founding fathers then our country would look alot like your towns. You are all blessed to be part of such a community. Yet again as I have been so privileged in services past, that of loving others as I love myself, I feel as if maybe I have been encouraged and blessed more by the very people that I came to serve.  Only GOD knows for sure now and I know that some day soon HE will make all things known to you and to me.  So it is with great Joy and with a labor of Love that I move forward with high expectations as to be awed more and more each passing day, by what GOD has prepared for all that exult in the finished work of  HIS SON, JESUS on that Cross at Calvary.  So please, that I may encourage you all to finish the race as the Bible says that the Kingdom of GOD suffers violence and the violent take it by force,  the Bible also says that the way is difficult and that we are to strive to finish!  So let us stand firm hand in hand and back to back until we may at once look up and behold the Glory of Our LORD face to face and that we may hear Him say, “well done my good and faithfull servant.”  It is in the name of JESUS that I so ask Father. Amen and Amen.

  Now, I post only a short list as to mention some of many that have been a blessing to me over the last 7 days:

  The Staff and Visitors at, Kingdom Come  Kentucky State Park.

  The Staff at Central Baptist Church.

Darlene Hall (Owner), Staff and Guest at the Touch of Country Resturant.

The Directors and Guest of Soloman’s Porch.

Greater Mount Sinai Baptist Church Rev. Ronie R. Hampton, Members and Guest.

“Roy” the guy that claims to be the local King of Barbeque.  I saw Him cook the meat and it taste great, but I can’t say that I know for sure that he made the sauce.

Judy’s Alterations.

Mike Braithwaite (Owner) Mike’s Tree Service and Landscaping. 

Cumberland Library Staff and Visitor’s to include Mike.

All the local businesses that I visited.

All the people that I met on on the sidewalks and in the parking lots and those that waved at me along the way!

Again, I have but mentioned a few.  I send to all my sincere love in JESUS and it is my hope that you all will come to know and share more of HIS Love Dailey.

Agape,

David Banton

P.S. More Pictures to be uploaded Soon!

Email: david@HisCall888.com

P.S.  I have reason to believe that it is very likely that I may see you again soon!

Wow!  My first stop of 200 ends 4-11-2010.  I was to leave after Easter Sunday Service but all Hell came against me just 5 days prior so things went but the enemy lost.  Thank GOD that HE has given me a clear conscience before HIM! So with help I was able to leave Chesterfield Virginia on Tuesday the 6th, day of March.  I spent the first night at Dixie Caverns Campground in Virginia because I was fighting to stay awake.  I don’t know if it was due to the altitude change as last October I was diagnosed with heart disease or if it was GOD as I was blessed much in the stop over.  By the way the symptoms of the heart disease have much decreased over the six months that have passed and was confirmed by a medical doctor just two weeks ago and this without medication!  Praise GOD!!! 

  The next day my journey continued and I was able to make it to Rural Retreat, Virginia as the same symptoms occured.  Yet again I was blessed and even more so than the day before.  Rural Retreat, Virginia who knew that it even existed?  At least not me and I’m from Virginia!  A beautiful natural lake with the backdrop of the BlueRidge Mountians!  The stars did I see more vividly than before.  Did I mention that the campground was closed for the season, that I was made to be welcome and I had the place all to myself with the exception of a few fisherman, cruisers and frequent security patrols by the local and state police officers?  Looked and sounds like GOD to me!  I was blessed in that three generations of believers who worked together at Bentley’s Garage detailed my “JESUS Truck” in support of the Journey. (Pictures to be uploaded).

  Later I was welcomed into the home of Sharon Baptist Church’s Pastor and his wife; Mr. and Mrs. Jack Rutherford of Rural Retreat, Virginia.  Later I enjoyed the Wednesday night service and was made welcome by the local body in attendance there.  Then to my exclusive campsite I went and had a good nights sleep.

  On Thursday I continued on the journey.  As I approached Appalacian County, Virginia I was taken by the river that flowed alongside the roadway and stopped at the first pullover to marvel at it.  I had just recently stumbled on a feature of my new camera in that it records video with sound.  So I had what would seem to be a bright idea at the time.  I set the camera on a rock so I could go ahead of it and wave to my friends and family all the while capturing the beauty of the rushing water sound and all.  The good news is that the camera worked fine as it captured all that and more.  I hope to learn how to upload the video for you all to see soon.  Suffice it to be said that I can’t walk on water yet!  You’ll have to see the video to get the most out of it!

  Anyway Eureka I made it to the Kentucky State Line.  Only to be met with rain and darkness as I transversed  Black Mountain. (Kentucky’s Highest Elevation of more than 4,000 feet above sea level).  Surely the air at that altitude was no longer a concern of mine.  I’ve never imagined such steep inclines and winding roads and for Pete’s sake would someone buy and install guardrails for Kentucky and all that may travel by this route?  Pass the plate as I would be glad to contribute to this cause and sleep better for it!  The good news is that I made it through with GOD”S devine help despite the rain darkness and my fears.  One last thing about this particular stretch in the journey, I have a clearer understanding of the phrase; “Daniel Boone was a man, yes a real man…..”!  For all of you that did’nt get that,  just do it yourself and may GOD be with you! 

  Finally I made it to my 1st of 4 destinations in the State of Kentucky.  The name; Kingdom Come Kentucky State Park! Wow sounds like GOD again and maybe now things will smooth out or not!  Not so fast, signs everywhere warning of the numerous Black Bear inhabitants with reports of sightings more days of the year than not!  The demands of my Faith are now stretched even further than before.  Then again it makes sense as I just transversed Black Mountain and it would seem to take the likes of Daniel Boone to live in Kentucky so that rules out the vast majority of Human beings.  So maybe GOD did in  large part make it for the Black Bears to enjoy! Yikes, I have no problem yeilding to the seemingly right of way of the Black Bears!  What do you think?  Wait a minute please, you go there first and then comment.

  None the less just before dark the rain stopped, the air was so clean and then I set up my fortress for the night. Can you say a 6’x6′ tent?  Okay can you imagine sleeping in it? Okay well I did sleep in it and quite soundly at that all the while depending on GOD and a 12 gauge shotgun to keep me safe.  Well atleast you may be able to count on getting the truth from me!

  At this pace I may still be at my 1st of 200 destinations a week from now so I’ll try to speed it up as to stay on schedule.

  As for Kentucky to date, Wow the Bible says that the Heavens declare the Glory of God and of course they do.  It’s just easier to see it when you’re almost 1 mile closer to it!  Further more I submit to you that the Earth and the fullness there of as now seen by me in the State of Kentucky, declare the Glory of GOD!

  So it is that my foot steps have been ordered by the LORD and that is how I came to this place.  To be refreshed after the hardships endured during the preparation phase of following the LORD’S will for my life.  Also I came to encourage fellow believers and to be a light into a dark world that some may be saved by the demonstrated Love of JESUS Christ in and through me.  Little did I know that I would happen on such a place as this in Kentucky and much less at the very first stop on the journey.  In this community I was and still am taken by the numerous ways GOD is working here.  No wonder HE sent me here first to be refreshed.  The missionary mindset here is overwelming in a great way.  I believe that if our country would once again acknowledge the foundational principles as of our founding fathers then our country would look alot like your towns. You are all blessed to be part of such a community. Yet again as I have been so privileged in services past, that of loving others as I love myself, I feel as if maybe I have been encouraged and blessed more by the very people that I came to serve.  Only GOD knows for sure now and I know that some day soon HE will make all things known to you and to me.  So it is with great Joy and with a labor of Love that I move forward with high expectations as to be awed more and more each passing day, by what GOD has prepared for all that exult in the finished work of  HIS SON, JESUS on that Cross at Calvary.  So please, that I may encourage you all to finish the race as the Bible says that the Kingdom of GOD suffers violence and the violent take it by force,  the Bible also says that the way is difficult and that we are to strive to finish!  So let us stand firm hand in hand and back to back until we may at once look up and behold the Glory of Our LORD face to face and that we may hear Him say, “well done my good and faithfull servant.”  It is in the name of JESUS that I so ask Father. Amen and Amen.

  Now, I post only a short list as to mention some of many that have been a blessing to me over the last 7 days:

  The Staff and Visitors at, Kingdom Come  Kentucky State Park.

  The Staff at Central Baptist Church.

Darlene Hall (Owner), Staff and Guest at the Touch of Country Resturant.

The Directors and Guest of Soloman’s Porch.

Greater Mount Sinai Baptist Church Rev. Ronie R. Hampton, Members and Guest.

“Roy” the guy that claims to be the local King of Barbeque.  I saw Him cook the meat and it taste great, but I can’t say that I know for sure that he made the sauce.

Judy’s Alterations.

Mike Braithwaite (Owner) Mike’s Tree Service and Landscaping. 

Cumberland Library Staff and Visitor’s to include Mike.

All the local businesses that I visited.

All the people that I met on on the sidewalks and in the parking lots and those that waved at me along the way!

Again, I have but mentioned a few.  I send to all my sincere love in JESUS and it is my hope that you all will come to know and share more of HIS Love Dailey.

Agape,

David Banton

P.S.  I have reason to believe that it is very likely that I may see you again soon!