“I’m genuinely happier than I’ve ever been in my life.”

Recently, one of the prisoners shared, “Yesterday was literally my one-year anniversary of confinement, here.” He explained that although he’s been in confinement, this last year equaled one year of college, in this case, seminary. He described our Wednesday and Friday Brig outreaches as collegiate classes, and his pod/cell as collegiate dorms. The three meals a day at the chowhall were equivalent to the campus cafeteria. He went on to say, “I wouldn’t trade this last year for the world because through your bi-weekly classes, I have grown so much in the Lord.” He finished with, “Over this last year I have been discipled. I am closer to the Lord, and honestly, I am genuinely happier than I’ve ever been in my life.” (Php 4:11, much?)

Over the years, this phenomenon has been expressed quite frequently by numerous inmates, however, I’ve never had it described to me in this way. (Lol!) So many have expressed similar feelings and insights, e.g., they’re closer to the Lord, they’re getting answers, they’re learning, they’re happier, and they have hope. The explanation? They’re experiencing Christ.

Real talk, I’ve found that it is impossible to spend authentic time in the presence of the Lord without being convicted, loved, and changed!

• Ps 16:11 You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.
• Ps 91:1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty… (vs.14) “Because he loves me,” says the LORD, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. (vs.15) He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. (vs.16) With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.”

I’ve personally experienced His deep, holy presence and became quickly awash with fear, conviction, love, security, and peace. His presence is transforming. Also, I’ve literally seen physical changes in the faces of people standing right in front of me as they come into His presence. Once gray, ashen faces, they now begin to beam with life as God’s salvation, power, and love fills and satisfies their souls. It’s majestic and a privilege to witness.

Genuine transformation requires the presence of God – His word, His truth, His love, His power – which is why God gave us all the ministry of reconciliation. (Please read 2Cor 5:18-20.) This reality drives me to great lengths to usher folks into His presence, to connect them with Christ. I try to intentionally confront, provoke, compel, and drag people into greater involvement and exposure to Christ.

(Cue up Captain Jack Aubrey impression from the movie Master and Commander)
“So it’s every Christian-hand to his rope or gun! Quick’s the word and sharp’s the action! After all, souls are at stake and God is on our side!”
(Forgive my artistic liberties, here. Lol!)

It’s only in Him that any of us live and move and have our being! (Acts 17:28)

Saints, in closing, please be confident that we remain focused on the Father’s Business. Daily, we lovingly and unapologetically give people the word of God. Many of y’all reading this newsletter can personally attest to our labor and faithfulness, which brings me to my request.

If you’ve ever been a part of any of these ministries (FMF, ARMS, YIC, Zebulun, the Brig, Newsletters, etc.), then I consider you alumni. And as such, please be reminded of 1) Your season on Okinawa and how these ministries blessed you, and 2) After you left Okinawa, others continue to arrive on island in need of Christ and discipling.

Bottom line, if you’ve benefited from anything we’ve said or done, please consider helping us to pour into the souls of the men and women presently here.

Financial contributions and donations can be made online through Christians In Action. Or, you can mail contributions to the address listed below.

I declare the Spirit Himself bears witness with your spirit that you are His child! (Rom 8:16)
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In the Spirit of adoption,
Pastor Nick & Sandy Guerra

Contributions can be sent to:
Dominic Guerra (Acct# 426)
c/o Christians In Action, Missions International
1318 E. Shaw Avenue – Suite 308
Fresno, CA 93710-7912

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