S P E C I A L P O I N T S O F I N T E R E S T :
From the desk of...Virgil Wilson Sr.
Our Mission/Our Members/ Our Vision
Devotion - “Relax, God has your back” - Virgil Wilson Sr.
Covenant Partners/Trivia Ad
Born Across the Track/ Poem/Danny Dean
Scripture of the Month/Rey Paniagua
Rejoice with them that rejoice/Sarai Gomez
How God called me to Ministry - Part 11 - Alonzo Fuller
Be Loosed/Yolanda Wilson
Somebody IS Listening Ministries - Min. Michael Howard
True Blessedamony/March On/Mark McKelvey
In response to “Why Women Stay in Domestic Violence Relationships or Marriages”/Anonymous
Faithbase/Javoni Jones
Active Frontline Message for February/Alcoholism and Drug Addiction/Matthew Troell
Faithful Saying/From the Heart Ministries/Pastor Decaso Woods
Dying/Writing for the Lord Ministry/Joseph Junior Evans
Pass the Baton/David Wayne Brooks
Growth Inhibitor/Richard Kussmaul
Trivia Answers/New Trivia Questions/Did you know/ Christian humor/Truth’s
Shout Outs/Praise Report
Birthdays/Anniversaries/ Trivia Winner, etc.
Volume 6, Issue 5
Mailing List Members to Date: 521
February 15, 2014
The spoken word a
l e t t e r
f r o m
Greetings, By the time this newsletter is read many would have already celebrated Valentine’s Day, through cards, candy, dinners, gifts and other avenues to express their “love” to someone else. Personally I’m not very keen on certain days set aside by man that are meant to prompt me to respond a certain way on that particular day. But what works for you, works for you and to God be the glory. As I think about the love we express toward others, I’m reminded how that love can’t even come close to the love God has showed us through Christ! Matter of fact, scripture tells us that while we were in our worse state, God demonstrated (proved it) His love for us by dying a horrible death. The word also tells us that there’s no greater love than that!
o u r
f o u n d e r
is demonstrating His love for us all the time. For some, at times it may be hard to feel the love of God, but all He does for is or allow us to go through, is out of the love He has for us. What we learned at home or on the streets about love is not what God is trying to teach us about love. The only way we can learn to really love, is to get to know God. I believe all Christians have room for improvement when it comes to loving each other, and definitely when it comes to our love for God! Question, can you truly say you love God? That’s something I’m still learning to do, to love God for who He is and for saving my soul, and not for what He can do for me. “For we love Him because He first loved us”!!!
We are incorporated as a 501(c)3 charitable organization so any contributions that you make are entirely tax-deductible.
Website: www.tdotlministries.org www.tdotlministries.com E-mail address is: tdotlministries@yahoo.com Phone: (214) 462-2009
Be Blessed, V. L. Wilson Sr.
Agape (love) is in action at all time, it’s not just lip service. God, the source of love (God is love) Our Mission
Our Members
Our Vision
The mission of “The Day of the Lord Ministries” is to embrace offenders, ex-offenders, and their family members with love through the various groups under our umbrella; to assist them in becoming equipped with the things they’ll need to be productive citizens, and loving family members.
Membership in The Day of The Lord Ministries includes all persons participating in any of the stated Ministries who choose to embrace our stated vision and values
To be an instrument through which the power of the Holy Spirit can minister to offenders, exoffenders, and their family members. Causing them to be self confident as they learn their purpose; to develop a new attitude toward their circumstance and rise above it.
“I will both lie down in peace and sleep; for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” Psalm 4:8 “RELAX, GOD HAS YOUR BACK” With all the years I’ve spent in prison, I have never had a physical altercation with an inmate or staff member, Praise God! In this environment you don’t have to be looking for trouble, it will sometime seek you out. But I’ve never had to lie down at night worrying or sleeping with one eye open. Now that I’m a Christian I can really understand and appreciate today’s scripture. To have peace is better than being rich in money. There are many who are rich, yet most miserable. Without the peace and safety of God: “more money, more problems!” the Bible says God’s peace surpasses all understanding, and will guard our hearts and minds (Philippians 4:7). When your life seems to be out of control, it’s that peace that will sustain you and allow you to go on. For us who are trusting in God, our time shouldn’t be spent worrying or losing sleep at night, God has your back. Jesus said: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27) There’s not any situation that arises in our life that should trouble us if our faith is in Christ. 2 Timothy 1:7 says: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” Stand fast in your power, love, and sound mind, and relax, God has your back!
Be Blessed! Virgil L. Wilson Sr.
Larry “LB” Barker Jo Linda Gibson LaQuinstun Lewis Sandra Wilbanks
Joseph Junior Evans Cliff & Yolanda Gordon Dionicio & Nanncy Martinez Virgil & Shy Wilson
Vernon & Lora Falls Michael & Sandra Howard Alberto Prado
Remember it's not about us, it's all about Him! STARTING IN JANUARY 2014: ANDREW & LORI CHARLTON WILL SEND $10.00 TO THE FIRST PERSON WHO RETURNED THEIR CORRECT TRIVIA ANSWERS TO THE MINISTRY. YOU CAN ONLY WIN ONCE A YEAR (TO GIVE OTHERS A CHANCE AT WINNING). SEND ANSWERS TO: THE DAY OF THE LORD MINISTRIES, C/O: TRIVIA ANSWERS, PO BOX 543004, DALLAS, TX 75354
“BORN ACROSS THE TRACK” A child awakens with tears falling/for it don’t know what to do A horrible dream invaded it’s slumber/one that seemed so true So cold it is, too cold to move/no heat to keep it warm No loving arms to bring it comfort/to calm the raging storm Little chance to reach the top/or earn the things you lack For you’re a child of poverty/born across the track No father at home to speak of/and mom do the best she can But each waking day you take your place/in live to make a stand Rats and roaches infest your house/no food for you to eat It’s no wonder you take to drugs/the life out on the street Little chance to reach the top/or earn the things you lack For you’re a child of poverty/born across the track You’ve always been told there ain’t no use/you’re stuck within this mold For it’s destiny that holds the key/just look at the days of old Society says you cannot achieve/for your status ain’t that good They tell you “can’t” for selfish reasons/but you know for certain you could Little chance to reach the top/or earn the things you lack For you’re a child of poverty/born across the track Your clothes aren't dirty/or brought from a high price store And still you are royalty/stolen from yonder shore So what of America, land of the free/where poverty runs amuck So hard to survive from day to day/so hard to earn a buck Little chance to reach the top/or earn the things you lack For you’re a child of poverty/born across the track In a world of rules made just for you/to oppress your wondering mind Made to keep you catching up/struggling all the time Open your eyes and see the truth/then never cease to try As not only what does it mean/but please can you tell me why Your chances double to reach the top/for you to better earn what you lack But first step outside the stigma/of being born across the track. Danny R. Dean; Goree Unit Release Date: 2/7/2014
Confess God’s Word! FAVOR Confess that you are Favored! God’s path is the favored path! As God’s child, you are loved and favored, and His unmerited grace and mercy is yours. His hand on your life can also bring you favor with people. Confess these affirmations based on scripture and draw in the priceless favor of God! Job 10:12 - You have granted me life and favor, God, and Your providence has preserved my spirit. Submitted by: Reynaldo Paniagua
“REJOICE WITH THEM THAT REJOICE” Brothers and Sisters, greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who deserves all honor and all glory. In Psalm 96:6-9 says “Honor and majesty are before him: strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. Give unto the Lord, O ye kindred's of the people, give unto the Lord glory and strength. Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: longing an offering, and come into his courts. O worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth.” AMEN! Church: In Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4 says “to everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven “(v4” A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn, and a time to dance.” you have been struggling in all areas of your life; you try to walk the way the Lord wants you to walk, and to do what He tells you to do...but it seems that instead of moving forward you take two steps back! You hold up trusting in the Lord, believing His word and promises and then when you least expected it He gives you your season to laugh and dance… but your joy is cut short because the person that knows how you have been struggling doesn’t rejoice with you, but instead is moving with jealousy and envy for what God is doing for you. So, what should you do? Do not stop rejoicing in the Lord! Don’t let that person take away your joy and praise. Many people in the Body of Christ doesn’t know how to be happy for the brother/sister tat is being blessed with their season. They let jealousy and envy eat them inside because it is the other person and not them who is rejoicing, it’s not suppose to be this way among the Body. Don’t they know “God ponderth the heart of men” (Pr. 21:2)? The Word of God also says that jealousy is cruel as hell (Song. 8:6)...it doesn’t forgive! We are suppose to walk in honestly not in envy (Rm. 13:13). When we feel envy we are walking in our carnal feelings and emotions (1 Cor. 3:3). It also says that where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work (Jam. 3:16). How can you say you love to laugh, dance and rejoice with them when God bless them with their season? You can easily weep and mourn with him/her when he/she is hurting; you cry and pray with them...how come you can’t do the same now? Are not we commanded to love each other like God loved us? 1 Cor. 13:4-7 “charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things”! It says that charity (love) never fails. We are children of God and we are to “love without dissimulation, adhoring that which is evil (Rm. 12:9). “Rejoice with them that do rejoice and week with them that weep” (Rm. 12 :15). I want to encourage all of you that if you are feeling like this toward your brother/sister, please repent and ask for forgiveness. We have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous (1 John 2:1), He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins (1 John 1:9). Stay strong in your faith in the Lord, worshipping Him in spirit and truth; He is still on the throne, He is our mighty, mighty King, Our beginning and end. He knows what we need, and what we struggle with, just place it in his hands and let him cleanse you and help you overcome every sin and stronghold! Psalm 95:3, 6-8 “For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods” “O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. For He is our God; and we are the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His hand. Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness!” AMEN! YSIC, Sarai Gomez #1410542 (Hobby Unit) - One Love Ministries
" How God called me to Ministry" - Part 11 Alonzo D Fuller #604169, Clements Unit 9601 Spur 591, Amarillo, Texas 79107 WHAT IS A NEW TESTAMENT PROPHET? A prophet is a ministry gift given by God to the church. No one can make himself a prophet or call himself to be a prophet. God alone calls and sets prophets in the Church. There is an anointing on that office and the spiritual equipment of the Holy Ghost which enables a person to fulfill that function to the Body of Christ. Actually, a prophet’s primary purpose and main ministry is to preach or teach the Word, or to be both a teacher and a preacher of the Word. This principal applies to all the ministry gifts. Anyone who is called to the fivefold ministry - apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor, or teacher - is first called to preach or teach the gospel. To “preach” means to proclaim or to tell. To “teach” means to expound or to explain. In my case, I operate with the teaching gift. I don’t preach. I remember when the teaching (gift) fell on me. You see, God must deal with me according to His word, because I’m a stickler for the word. In the book of Deuteronomy 32:2, God said: “My doctrine (teaching) shall drop as the rain…” It was the summer of 2008 in the early part of the afternoon. I was taking a nap, when suddenly I felt hot drops of liquid being squirted on me, and it was sticking to my body. I thought someone was squirting hot water on me, but there was nobody. I felt the substance on my body, but couldn’t see anything. I realized it was falling down on me, but couldn’t see anything. Before I realized what was actually happening, I blurted out, “I can teach”. That’s the anointing to teach. For instance, the men say to me, “Brother Fuller, I really enjoy the way you teach the bible, and how you explain the scripture to us.” that’s because I very often teach inspirationally, by the prophetic anointing. Although, I don’t realize it. Its part of the ministry Jesus gave me. Now, the person who is strictly a teacher teaches with the teaching anointing explain and instruct the people by precept and example, and that’s the only anointing he has. A New Testament prophet is one who has visions and revelations, among other things. Prophets see and know things supernaturally. In order to stand in the office of the prophet, one must operate in three gifts of the nine spiritual gifts listed in 1 Corinthians 12:7-10. the nine spiritual gifts of the Holy Ghost are divided in three groups: (1) The Revelation Gifts, where the Spirit reveals something, (2) The Power Gift, how the Spirit does something, and (3) The Speaking Gifts, when the Spirit says something. A prophet will be equipped with an anointing of the Revelation gifts, i.e., the word of knowledge, the word of wisdom and the gift of discerning of
spirits.
In a nutshell, the gift of the word of knowledge is a supernatural revelation by the Holy Ghost concerning certain facts in the mind of God - facts about people, places, or things in the past or present. The word of wisdom is supernatural revelation into events that will occur in the future, or about the plans and purposes of God. The discerning of spirits enables prophets to see into the spiritual realm, which I might add is awesome and also frightening to behold. In the future, I would like to spend a couple of articles defining and describing The Nine Gifts of the Holy Ghost. Before I end this article, there’s one important fact I must add...Prophets don’t know everything; we only know what God reveals to us. I’m sure many think because someone either stands in the prophetic ministry, or claims to be a prophet, he has unlimited knowledge about people or things. I think false prophets have done great harm to the church, and now the majority does not give place nor honor to the prophet’s ministry. There is a distorted view of the prophetic office, and because of that, the church is robbed and cheated from a prophet’s reward. Matthew 10:41. This office is not for novices. Let God develop you and your ministry. As God prepares you, people will recognize the gift of God in you. Just trust in the wisdom of God and know that as you do your part, God in His wisdom will do His part. Remember, if you expect more, God will give you more. Be Blessed
“BE LOOSED” First and foremost I want to give Honor and Praise to God the Father and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I would like to thank everyone who answered the call to join the fast. God truly showed up and completely showed out! I’m still in awe of His works that are still being manifested. I want to share the revelation I got on 1/10/2014, the 30th day of the fast. I heard do you want to be Loosed and then the Scripture 1 Corinthians 5:11 “But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner, with such one no not to eat.” See Brothers and Sisters the company we keep has hindered us from freedom. Not the physical imprisonment, but all captivity. Addiction, anger, strife, hatred, lying, and all unholy living. Not only are we to not sit and eat physically with them, we are not to eat of their wickedness! If you have tried to stop doing certain things that you know are not pleasing to God, and can not seem to stop. Look at the company you are eating with. Not only so bad company influence you after a time of being in their company, most importantly God commands us not to do it! Now, you may think this company is others “and most times it is,” but that bad company could be your old inner man! When that old inner man tries to raise up from the dead and sit and eat with you. Turn around and leave him where he is. He is the main one that keeps us in bondage. But do you really and truly want to be Loosed? Don’t keep bad company! I was promised if I do this, I would be set free! And I take God at His word! I can tell you that I’m free on the inside and waiting on the manifestation of my physical release. Brothers and Sisters, you too can also be Loosed. Just trust and obey God’s Word. Be Blessed and I love each of you and my prayer is that you receive this word and are set free. In Jesus Name. One Love YSIC Yolanda Wilson (Hobby #1468610) One Love Ministries SHOUT - OUT Beloved Michael, my Brother I want you to know that the storm is over, and this is our season to dance and rejoice in the Lord. Don’t allow Satan to steal you laugh, your joy and happiness. This is a season of plenty. I have known you in the spirit for a while. Be Blessed and know that I’m praying for you always. YSIC, Yolanda Wilson
Somebody Is Listening Ministry Min. Michael & Sandra Howard P.O Box 543004 Dallas, TX 75354 God brought me out a storm. Job 38:1. then the Lord answered Job out of the storm! The key words are; Then the “Lord” answered. For one we know, that the Lord will answer you out of any storm. So there is no excuses. Brother’s in white; there will be a storm waiting on you! Don’t give in, Man, don’t stop praying! Nothing else matters but praying to God, talking to God. That’s all that matter in your storm. People will try to persuade you otherwise, but nothing else matters. Brothers, believe me when I say that everyone has a solution to your storm but not a clue to their own storm. Crazy, huh? New International Version, Life in the Spirit Study Bible says in Job 38:1 Commentary: It was God himself who now addressed Job. He revealed Job’s ignorance about the divine role in all that was happening. He humbled Job by revealing how little humans really know and understand about the Almighty. However, through God’s response came firsthand revelation to Job of God’s presence, mercy and love. (We get “big headed” and forget about how much we really know God). Job constant prayer and deepest yearning to find God was finally answered, confirming that everything was still alright between himself and the Lord. (It was Job’s constant prayer) The Lord’s response to his Job illustrates that God will ultimately come to all who sincerely and steadfastly call on him, even if our prayer come from heart of confusion, doubt, frustration or anger, God will eventually respond with his presence, comfort and words. (People, (us people) are so quick to judge other people - then we wonder why our problem want leave). The most important aspect in our relationship with od is not an intellectual understanding of all of God’s ways, but the experience and reality of His divine presence and the assurance that all is right between ourselves and God. In fellowship with God we can endure any trial we are called on to undergo. Those last statements are so true because (us) people try to get ahead of God, then he got to humble us. With that said - I can truly say that God put me in a storm and He delivered me out of it! My storm had me turning some wrong corners; lets just say that, because the most important is I’m still here. But you know (us) people, we always want to know more so we can gossip and figure it out. But God says stay in fellowship with Him, and sometime you must remove yourself from people, places, and things or you will get caught up in an intellectual understanding of things, instead of listening and receiving the experience and reality of God’s divine presence. “GOD’S DIVINE PRESENCE” On Friday at about 3:00AM, Feb. 7, 2014 I was just finishing taking out my last load of stuff to be thrown out of my sisters apartment, because I had been packing her stuff to go in storage while her storm blows over. Anyway, this day was cold outside. I had been at it for almost 8 hours, I believe. But after that last bag of trash I came in and felt as if my heart was giving out. All I could think of was that I was having a stroke!
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It was cold, I was sweating bullets from my head to ankles. I had on a big black jacket. I balled up on the sofa with the hood on, and the sweat was like I had been in standing rain. My heart beating fast, sweat running like water, I was in fear, because I knew if the Lord was calling - I was in trouble. I fell to my knees—start calling out to God, crying out loud, speaking in tongues to my God. This would last for almost 45 minutes until I raised up. then I thought I was going crazy, cause the fear was great, I could feel death, I could see that darkness, God was showing me what was to come...i started praying out loud, asking for forgiveness, asking to come back, asking for acceptance, giving it all up. I didn’t want anything left inside of me. I wanted God to take it all! And once He did he renewed my strength, renewed my prayer, renewed my love, my spirit, my dignity, my courage, my boldness, my understanding, my all, God renewed it all. I would pace the room for hours calling out to God. I tried calling Pastor Vic, God wouldn’t let me dial, I tried my grandmother - God wouldn’t let me dial. I was screaming out “I ain't calling nobody God - you call them, I ain’t calling! I was saying this very loud - then I started thinking about church, I started back saying out loud: “I ain’t going no where Lord” you want me to go you take me, I ain’t going! You take me, you call them, cause I ain’t going to do it! All I could see was a old white brother from my Kairos Team in Lubbock, TX some kind of was I called it went to voicemail - but it rang back so fast, I would have never known! All I said was Brother Jim - God pulled me through the storm! Cause as soon as this brother picked that line up I was just crying and screaming Thank you Jesus - Thank you Jesus - Thank you Jesus. That’s all I could say and Brother Jim was on the other end saying “Praise God, Hallelujah, Hallelujah; this went on for minutes before we even started talking, I kept praising and I told Jim I ain’t going nowhere til God tell me that instance God start speaking saying get back down to that jailhouse and preach that word Sat. & Sun, get back with your brothers & sisters in Kairos - and preach that word at all cost, all means, preach that word! So, since that day I been cleaning my house, my temple, my closet, my mess ups, my wrongs. All of it I been moving it out!!! See, when God move can’t no man stop it, when God move can’t no man touch it, when God move can’t no man defile it, when God move can’t no man run it, when God move can’t no man tear it down, when God move he separate! When God move He prospers! When God move He expose! And that is what man is afraid of; that exposure! When God put before you a testimony as this one and you ask God what to do or what to do next something’s wrong with you. God is looking down on you saying “Why you asking me - the proof is in the pudding!” taste it, you’ll see, and that’s what man fear! Love you Guys, Must go now Minister Michael Howard
TRUE BLESSEDAMONY
JESUS LIVES!!!
1 John 1:5
MARCH ON Having placed the burden of death on his back and the titulus around his neck, the quaternion formed a square around the victim and began a long, slow march through the main parts of the city. Many years later the death march, the via dolorosa took on the term the “way of suffering”. The sole purpose of the march was, of course, to give enhancement to the public spectacles. While the United Stated still utilizes the death penalty; executions are carried out behind closed doors. This is done away from the eyes of the general public, not so under Rome's control of times gone by. As the jeering, blood thirsty crowds uproar became louder; the son of God came carrying a wooden cross. Resting on his bloody, torn, beaten, naked back, neck, shoulders, he marched on. As the spittle, insults, punches, mocking's flew from the lost mankind that he came down from Heaven to save. He marched on, bloody, torn, beaten, humiliation; at any time he could have ceased his march. Imagine of one who is on death row today was made to carry the toxic mixture of chemicals and the slab that will carry them to death. Do you vision a condemned criminal toting the very device that will end their life on the earth? He marched on, a man on a God given mission, bloody, beaten, torn, humiliated, he marched on. At any time God’s only begotten Son could have ceased the sinister innocent death that awaited him on Golgotha; he marched on. Why have you ceased your God given mission? All the trials and tribulations have you bolded down. Is your bloody, beaten, torn body unable to carry the cross of death? Why has your march ceased? Apostle Paul makes a most profound statement in [2 Timothy 4:7], why have you ceased your march??? Be thankful that Jesus Christ did not let the tribulations that he endured stop his match. Oh dearly beloved; if Jesus Christ had ceased his God given mission. The hell that awaited and was deserved to the fallen mankind who belonged on that cross. No one, no one, would be reconciled to ABBA Father; why have you ceased marching; why?
Mark McKelvey - Eastham
I would like to comment on Brother Kent’s message: “Why do women stay in Domestic Violence Relationships or Marriages.” Brother, you are right when you said that from the outside people wonder why a woman stays with a man who physically and emotionally abuse her. Until we are not in their shoes we tend to judge & criticize the person. We consider her a “weak minded” woman because she stays in that relationship. You said to just get out of that abusive relationship, but Brother, sometimes it’s not that simple “simple to just walk away”. Some women can, but some other can’t. I was one of them that even with a black eye I couldn’t bring myself to walk away. Why did I say in that “relationship”? Fears, fears held me back! The fear of rejection but above all, the fear of being alone. See, I was terrified to be alone. Many women do what I did, but unlike those that are still trapped in that lie from Satan now I’m FREE! My Saviour Jesus was the only one who could ever help me let go. The Word of God tells us that “He will never leave us nor forsake us” & “He will be with us always” (Joshua 1:5 & Matthew 27:20). When I truly grasped the meaning of His promises I knew that I didn’t need no one but my Lord and Saviour to feel & know that I’m loved and I will never be alone. Thanks be to God who gave me freedom through Christ! I know that when the time is right God will send me the man he created me for, a man of God who loves and serves Him, a mighty man of God who will love me like Jesus loves me, a man who will encourage me to follow and obey the voice of God even when it doesn't make sense to us, a man who would love me for who I am regardless of the mistakes in my past. I know that man exists because I’m his rib! For now I’m just trusting that my God will bring him to me. Stay strong in the Lord! (Anonymously Sent)
*FAITHBASE* BY JAVONI JONES - EASTHAM UNIT The Word of the Month (Ephesians - Chapter 5) Let no man deceive you with vain words. For because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. PS) Stay focused on the Gospel truth, God speaks His word through others, never give up on your dream, God will bless it into reality as he did a friend of mines below back home. God is able! Put Him first!!! GOD BLESS!!!
ACTIVE FRONTLINE MESSAGE FOR FEBRUARY ALCOHOLISM AND DRUG ADDICTION Alcoholic dependency and drug addiction are two of the widest reaching and most lethal plagues of modern times. They attack with equanimity. Their oppression knows no racial boundaries, no ethnic prejudice, or consideration for socioeconomic status. They invade our homes and families with ruthless determination. They infect our churches, schools, and government institutions. Over 85% of all persons currently incarcerated in the state of Texas are somehow tied to alcohol and drugs. I am no exception to this rule. I got involved in the alcohol/drug culture at a young age, which was a choice that undoubtedly led me to where I am today. my drug abuse and alcoholism destroyed my marriage, tormented my family, and ultimately led to the death of an innocent woman who fell victim to my reckless selfishness. Fortunately, that is not the end of my story but is just the beginning. I accept full responsibility for the wreckage in my past, but I cannot take credit for my redemption. God found me in the depths of my brokenness and through His grace lifted me out of the hands of my selfdestruction. He breathed Life into my tired soul and where I hadn’t the will to persist He carried me through and delivered me from my demons. Through Active Frontline, this is the message that I wish to bring to people who are desperately struggling with the traps of chemical dependency. This message is about Hope and Rebirth, it is about surrendering yourself into the hands of God and allowing Him to bear your burdens for you. I will qualify myself among the ranks of addicts and alcoholics through the testimony of my life’s story, but that is where I will fall out of the picture. Once others recognize me as one of their own the focus will be fully shifted to God. I understand that in our pursuits we will encounter many beliefs, religions, and denominations and they will all be respected and welcome in our program. I believe that Christ came as the Savior for ALL of mankind and, following His footsteps, we must also walk His message out into all the world. My message is simple: Hope brought into our lives by the Saving Grace of Jesus Christ, who, in the authority of God, defeated all oppression and Darkness once and for all. Submitted by: Matthew Troell
Article Written By: Pastor Decaso Woods “FAITHFUL SAYING” Thank you so much my brothers and sisters in Christ for all your diligent prayers in which I requested from you in my recent article; for the aid of my families health. When I first heard about how my family was having these health crisis's it was bad news to me. But I will never give the devil credit, or give him opportunity thinking he has won the battle to make me fear, worry, and complain. No that’s little faith. I believe Jesus has overcame every evil obstacle for us all on the cross. There is power in that wonderful name Jesus to break every chain! When we all speak Jesus great name faithfully being one accord working as a team in the Body of Christ the devil has no choice but to flee. The Bible says in James 4:7 Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Revelations 12:11 and they overcame him by the blood of the lamb and by the word of their testimony and they did not love their lives to the death. This is why I was anxious in prayer immediately from you all, to pray for my family. Matthew chapter 18:19-20 states again: I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20) For where two or three are gathered together in My Name, I am there in the midst of them. James 5:13-16 Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms. 14) Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15) and the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. 16) Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. Thank you so much Alonzo D. Fuller for sending me a special request in your article saying you don’t see it as bad news, the news about the health issues of my family but an opportunity to prove that God’s Word works. Thank you for your faithful motivation and confirmation. Because no one wants to hear bad news that their loved one’s is sick or has suffered a massive health problem. The first thing we must do is take it to God through our Lord Jesus in prayer and never give the devil credit by worrying. This is why I asked, seeked, and knocked for your prayers. Scripture says in Ephesians 4:27 nor give place to the devil. The word place in this scripture means never give the devil opportunity. The Greek word for place in this scripture is (Topos) this emphasizes that believers can actually give ground in their lives to satanic control when you’re not seeking God first. Mr. Fuller God has opened up to you a door this strong revelation you’ve expressed to me. On your spare tome with God, God has put this in my heart for you to preach from Colossians 1:19-29 verse and Revelation 3:7, and Revelation 3:20-22 verse you continue preaching this until God tells you to preach something else. In closing, I have a praise report: My Dad is doing well, he is getting treatment for his cancer. His name is Charles Woods. My mother; Stephanie Ann health is well; she went back to work. My brother Lawrence has a fibulator in his heart, he’s doing well, he is now a volunteer for Beto 1 Unit and Coffield Unit to preach God’s word, and Mr. Powell who suffered a heart attack we spent time together last week in God’s word laughing, drinking sodas and eating sweets. My prayer for all of you is to continue in the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ grounded and steadfast and do not be moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under Heaven… In the name of Jesus. Thank you al for steadfastly working as a team in the Body of our Lord Jesus Christ. AMEN Pastor Decaso Woods From the Heart Ministries
*DYING* In this “Dying” world we have three different types of people: first, the ones who received the Word in stony places. But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended. (Matthew 13: 20-21) We don’t have just any story to tell it’s the best story that has been told; sharing the good news in one beggar telling another beggar where to find bread! In this “Dying” world we all are killing ourselves softly every time we choose to defy God’s Word. For the vile person will speak villainy, and his heart will work iniquity, to practice hypocrisy, and to utter error against the Lord, to make empty the soul of the hungry, and he will cause the drink of the thirsty to fail. (Isaiah 32:6) Second, the ones who received the Word among the thorns, they hear the Word but choose the world over the Word...He also that received seed among the thorn is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and becometh unfruitful. (Matthew 13:22) This “Dying” world is placing there trust in man and his lying tongue to convince the people he and he alone can change the nation...A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood (Proverbs 6:17) and this “Dying” world get offended when someone speak against what is being said or done and speaking the Word of God! Third, the ones who received the Word on good ground and understand it. But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. (Matthew 13:23) This “Dying” world is being destroyed by the people who think they can correct it by their own understanding. Passing laws to please the world and not following God to the fullest! The people are ready for that change to come, but instead of trusting God, they trust in what man say...Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition. (2 Thessalonians 2:3). The “Dying” world is being deceived at every turn by the “antichrist” and they are truly blind to it… For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. (2 John 1:7). We as Christians must be very careful how we voice our beliefs and opinions because it can be taken wrongly and it could be harmful. These are the things that ye shall do; Speak ye every man the truth to his neighbor; execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates. (Zechariah 8:16). Written By: Joseph Junior Evans #604541 Michael Unit Writing for the Lord Ministry
PASS THE BATON The life legacy of the international icon Nelson Mandela, is unparalleled. His commitment to the mission of freedom, his undeniable willingness to sacrifice his life and his unflinching ability to forgive “the unforgivable” literally transformed the social political landscape and future of an entire country. Additionally, his mission, passion and vision inspired and enlightened millions around the world to aspire to a higher level of humanity. Nelson Mandela once said “as I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in prison. Mandela passed the baton that we must forgive those who have done wrong to us and stay submitted to the call God has on our lives. This is Black History month and we can learn so much from this icon Nelson Mandela. During his lifetime he dedicated his life to the struggle of African people. He fought against white domination and black domination. He cherished the idea of a democratic and free society in which all people live together in harmony with equal opportunities. It is I hope for to live and achieve. But if needs be, it is an idea for which I would die for. Yes we must pass the baton to our children and teach them to love all people because everything God created was good. Nelson Mandela once said there is no passion to be found playing small - in settling for al life that is less than the one you are capable of living. Mr. Mandela’s passion for his cause motivated him to remain fit and faithful during twenty seven (27) years of imprisonment. No one can fight effectively without passion. In our struggle against the enemy we must be on fire to win. Finally we must pass the baton to the people to keep God’s vision. Nelson Mandela said “There is no easy walk to freedom anywhere, and many of us will have to pass through the valley of the shadow of death again and again before we reach the mountain top of our desire. Mr. Mandela’s vision for a new South Africa impacted the world forever! If you are going to be victorious in your world, you must believe you can be victorious before you are victorious. This year I will come up for parole and I will have been incarcerated for over twenty six (26) years. But my next assignment for this year is to pass the baton to others who will take my place when I leave. I must teach them to submit to God’s mission, have passion and keep God’s vision. To: Amy D. Ivy #845649 Please write I would love to put music to your songs. God Bless You! Michael Unit ~ Minister of Music ~ David Wayne Brooks #505127 ~ In The Key of “C”
Growth Inhibitor #3: THE FLESH, Galatians 5:16, 17 The flesh as an enemy is a NT idea focusing the carnal, inbred tendencies of fallen humankind. These inclinations are the most immediate enemy of the believer who desires to live a life under the control, influence, and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. The Word says the desire alone to do good is not enough to overcome our flesh (Roman 7:21). Rather, we are called to war against the flesh; to live our lives in a tug-of -war as our flesh urges indulgence and the Holy Spirit constrains us to righteousness. Victory in this war is found in: abiding in a right relationship with Jesus, understanding that true strength is found in our weakness (2 Cor. 12:10) and continually submitting to the unction and urgency of the Spirit (Eph. 5:18). Victory come as we take these practical steps avoiding or overcoming the pull of our flesh. (James 4:4/Matt. 22:38, 39) WALK IN THE SPIRIT, 5:16 The design of the Holy Spirit, as He develops in us fruit characteristic of “the divine nature” (vv. 22, 23; 2 Peter 1:2-8), is to constrain us toward a life in which the tendencies of the flesh are both undesirable and unproductive. The word “walk” (Greek; peripateo) means “to walk at large, especially as proof of ability”; to be occupied with or engaged is. “The tense of this verb implies progression or steady progress and empowers, enabling practical godliness. Discernment on our part teaches that some sins are driven by carnal nature (flesh) and others by carnal nature (nourishment), depending on the way one is fed or bred. Some sins are avoided because of divine prohibitions and others by divine (Holy Spirit) inhibitions, when the indwelling Spirit brings the word or personal warnings to mind. Growth in Christ increases resistance to all that is uncharacteristic of Him, we become more internally motivated as our hearts learn to inhibit disobedience, instead of relying on our minds to memorize rules and wrestle to obey, learning to “walk in the Spirit” will bring a gradual movement from mental rules and disciplines to an obedience rooted in the heart’s judgments and convictions. FOOT NOTES: (5:16) Liberty can degenerate into license, but the Holy Spirit enables us to subdue the lust of the flesh when we continually submit ourselves to His power and control. “Walking in the Spirit” is an expression, which means living one’s life in the power of the Spirit while being guided by the Spirit. (5:17) The Spirit and the flesh are diametrically opposed to one another, as evidenced by their “works” and “fruit” (vv 19-22; see also the earlier references in 4:29 and 5: 4,5, where those who are of the Spirit are confronted by those of the flesh and the Law). The result is a fierce and unrelenting conflict within Christians in which they cannot be victorious by their own strength. See Rom. 7: 15-23. After reading Galatians 5:16-17, I’ve come to see it leads you to James 4:4, #2, then we’ll go to 1 Peter 5:8, #1.
WE WILL PICK UP THERE IN THE NEXT NEWSLETTER (MARCH 2014) GOD BLESS YOU! Richard Kussmaul #680385 Eastham Unit
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Trivia Questions & Answers “Pontius Pilate” 1. What symbolic act did Pontius Pilate do to not have responsibility for Christ’s crucifixion? (He washed his hands; Matthew 27:24) 2. What position of authority did Pontius Pilate hold? (Governor; Matthew 27:2) 3. Who urged Pontius Pilate to leave Jesus alone after having a dream? (Pilate’s wife; Matthew 27:19) 4. What three words did Pontius Pilate utter after Jesus said He came to testify to the truth? (“What is truth”; John 18:37-38) 5. What fellow government official, formerly an enemy, became Pontius Pilate’s friend during Jesus’ trial? (Herod; Luke 23:5-12) B I B L E
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According to Paul, what is profitable for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness? What did Jesus say a man could lose even if he gained the whole world? What did Paul tell Timothy along with Godliness is great gain? Whose loss, according to the book of Romans, meant riches for the Gentiles? How did Paul describe everything he had lost in his life in his efforts to gain Christ?
DID YOU KNOW? In the famous Parker Brothers game “Monopoly”, the space on which a player has the greatest statistical chance of landing is Illinois Avenue. Nobody knows exactly how many people died during the sinking of the Titanic. The great ship was carrying a number of unlisted passengers. No one has even been able to domesticate the African elephant – only the Indian elephant can be trained by man.
BIBLICAL HUMOR
QUOTES FOR THE MONTH TODAY'S REMINDER: You might have lived through it, now you gotta get healed from it. Yes, it happened....and yes, it hurt.... just don’t allow yourself to stay bound to the pain. THE TRUTH IS: You learn more about someone at the end of a relationship, than at the beginning. SIMPLY PUT: Anything that hurts you can teach you. Anything that keeps hurting you, hasn't taught you.
SHOUT OUTS Big O, Bro. Peavey, Bro. Ike and the brothers on Eastham, Pastor Virgil Wilson, I love you all man. Bro. Michael Howard, love you man. Strong shout out to Sis. Angel Richnow and the sisters who stand in God’s light. My prayers include you all. I’m singing in the choir and still praising our God. Danny R. Dean, Goree Unit Released: 2/7/2014
PRAISE REPORT Psalm 105:1 “O give thanks unto the Lord; call upon His name: make known his deeds among the people.” Psalm 107:9 “For he sastifieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness!” I never had a relationship with my mother. Many factors put so much distance between us; when I got incarcerated it got even worse. But after so many years God has restored her to me! I give praise to God for His goodness; he did what seemed impossible years ago. I also want to say that she gave her life to Jesus and God is working in her! My beloved brethren, my heart and soul is full of praise for our God, He is good, His mercy endures forever! O, He is worthy, worthy of all my praise. My heart and soul kneel before Him! Psalm 145:2-6 “everyday will I bless thee; and I will praise thy name forever and ever. Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise thy works to another, all shall declare thy mighty acts. I will speak of the glorious honor of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous work. And men shall speak of the might of thy terrible acts’ and I will declare thy greatness.” Amen!
To: My “1st Lady” HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY I thank God for giving me your heart and allowing me to truly give my heart to you unconditionally. Loving you is one of life’s greatest treasures. Valentine’s Day is meant for celebrating the love we have, but you deserve to hear how much I love you everyday for the rest of our life together. Mrs. Rachel Moss - 1st Lady you satisfy my deepest wishes and you’re my desire. Love Always, Mr. Roddrick D. Moss
Mrs. Michelle Robinson
You and I are FOREVER. Yellow Bone I already know our relationship wasn’t accidental. Beautiful when I wake up you’re on my mind. Even when I lay down to rest, you’re heavy on my heart. Throughout my search of the world for a Queen He blessed me with a wife. A beautiful, wonderful, outstanding, so courageous, lovable and well outspoken You’re a Robinson! Yellow Bone every encounter that happens in our lives when the devil tries to brake us or bond us we come out just fighting even stronger. That’s why I love you so much because even when your back is up against yhe wall, you let that true Robinson in your blood shine. Hold-on Baby, Big Daddy’s almost home to give you a break! This incarceration wasn’t a mistake in our lives Baby; it was only God making you and I better for each other and our future toKeep your faith in Christ! We serve a mighty living God who can move mountains and do the impossible in gether. I love you forever. Mrs. MONEY Your Husband our lives, just trust him. YSIC, Sarai Gomez Michael Robinson FOREVER Beautiful,
This is our 2nd year Valentine’s and I want you to know; everyday is Valentine’s with you. I’m glad you are mine and I am yours. Nearly 2 years as a married couple and it seems the Lord is strengthening our love for each other day by day! Our day will come when I will be right there to celebrate every minute of the day with you. Every waking morning and every moonlight night. I love you my beautiful wife and I hope you are surprised on this Valentine’s Day! Love you, Your Husband
Andrew My Valentine, My sweet valentine, My candle in the wind; It's the morning fresh air. The breeze that awakens the sudden chirping of blue birds, And soft fluttering butterflies, Your My Valentine, Sweetheart I Love You!!!! Your wife, Lori Charlton
Virgil & Shy Wilson, thank you for your loving support from God and our Lord Jesus Christ to extend your love for your brothers and sisters in Christ who are free and who are now incarcerated. Keep following God’s route through Jesus in your church ministries: THE DAY OF THE LORD MINISTRIES. My prayer for you is to always remember God knows how much you can bear. He may not come when you want Him, but God will always be on time; steadfastly thank God that you both understand God changeth not He won’t forget nor have He forgot to love you and obey His Word. AMEN! From: Pastor Decaso Woods
To My Son Lil Tony, Valentine, Valentine, Valentine O' won't you please be mine You're such a sweet heart With love full of sweet tarts. My Valentine I Love You...... Still Mama!!!!! Happy Valentine's Day Brother, This is the love I have for you One= cannot be undone, Two= oh boy! do I love you! Three= just you and me Four= Be my valentine Five= I love you Brother. Your Sister Lori Charlton Happy Valentine's Day! To The Men's and Women's In White. From: Andy & Lori Charlton
SHOUT OUT TO VIRGIL & SHY WILSON As I look into this Black History Month I couldn’t help but to acknowledge Virgil & Shy Wilson who God gave a vision to start a monthly newsletter to be a instrument through which ex offenders and their families causing them to be self confident as they learn their purpose and to develop a new attitude toward their circumstance and rise above. I am so grateful for this ministry that has impact my life given me a passion to do God’s will, Submit to God’s call in my life and keep God’s Vision. Thank you so much Virgil & Shy...May God continue to use you for His Glory. David Wayne Brooks Michael Unit Minister of Music - In the key of “C”
Rodney, each day GOD shows me how real he is… but this past year he let me know firsthand how much he loves me…..by giving me you! I thank GOD everyday for him supplying my needs…and that is you. Answer me this…how is it possible for a woman to fall deeper and deeper in love with a man as each day go by? You make me feel amazing!! I love my boo!!! Sandra (almost) Allen
Rev. Darnell and Amber Johnson: I get so excited every time I see you both together. I’m happy God has put you both together to bear fruit and store up godly treasure in Heaven. Thank you for letting me pray with you both, my prayer for you is; stop right now and look around, see how beautiful this world is from you letting God use thee. Please continue to learn from God by spreading His love all around. I thank God for His wonderful gift He put in your hearts to always make me smile! Pastor Decaso Woods. Daddy, I love you For all that you do. I'll kiss you and hug you 'Cause you love me, too. Daddy you will always be my Special Valentine, We have a love so Devine!! Your Daughter Taylon Wilson {AKA: TayTay} Jody---Aka: Charles Parker.......Lil Cousin, Thanks for the shout-out, You and I are friends You laugh, I laugh you cry, I cry You scream, I scream You run, I run You jump, I jump. You jump off a bridge, I'm going to miss you buddy :) Happy Valentine's Day Cuz, I Love You!! Your Big Cuz Mrs. Lori Charlton!!! Happy Valentine's Day Papa Andy Charlton from all Your grandkids: Zariah, Kevin, Princesshelen, Jermesia, Macayla, Taylon, Persia, Ashton, Tia, We Love You!! Our Papa Valentine's We Love You! Best Grandkids In The World
Happy Valentine's Day Dale, my husband, my love. I LOVE YOU ALWAYS IN ALL WAYS I PROMISE. ANN To: “Liliana Hernandez #1219188” ~ I KNEW YOU WOULD BE WHERE YOU ARE TODAY~ “Liliana, first may GOD our father continue to be our light, our path in righteousness. Liliana, your February issue touch me in ways that I’ll like to further grow to know you on a personal friendship level. I’m currently a survivor of the devil’s wrath. I was once lost, all along knowing God’s will. Thank God I found him. Liliana, if in your will, I would gladly like to correspond with you. Write me and inform me in receipt of these. God Bless Cedrick Stanton #1577824, Powledge Unit 1400 FM 3452, Palestine, TX 75803
My husband best friend.my strength n inspiration.. ur luv only gets more amazing n uplifting to me with each passing day...everything good in me is amplified since u walked back into my life… I wouldn't trade a footstep that led me back to you if I had the choice to do it all over again I wouldn't think twice cause this God given love is worth every sacrifice... So smile baby when u think of us like I know u do... God has great things n store for me n you… Everyday is Valentines Day especially when I look into ur eyes… Gonna give u my all till the day God calls me up in that great big blue sky… n even then I will wait on my husband my best friend, my inspiration.. Luv u Papi Ur Wife Mrs. Angela Fernandez Happy Valentine's Day!
Michael B. Robinson, Coffield Unit
TO: Roddrick D. Moss-Coffield Unit
Michael Schwartz,
Happy Valentine’s Day to my wonderful husband. Even though current circumstances we can’t be together on this day in the flesh, we are always together in spirit. You mean the world to me and will always hold a special place in my heart. I send my love, hugs, and kisses. I love you.
My sweetheart!!! All of my life I wondered if I would ever find my mate, partner and best friend but the wonder stopped over 9 years ago when I started praying and then started asking God for the man He had for me because I then knew He would send Mr. Right and He did in giving me a gift as you – it is so beautiful to have someone as special as you not only on Valentines Day but always… You are the best husband in this world and God’s Grace surely is enough Endlessly loving you, your wife and best friend Ez
Mrs. Rachel M. Moss-1st Lady “Two Hearts, that beat as One”
Virgil + JESUS + Shy = AWESOMENESS Thank you Jesus for being the CENTER of all that we do, and for holding us together for the pass 10 years! Happy 10th Anniversary, Baby!!! Happy Valentine’s Day Sweetheart!!!
To My Honey Bear! Happy V -Day, With all my Love always, Your mines and Am yours. 2014 is ours I Claim It in Jesus Name. Keep the faith and Keep looking up where all our blessing flows from. It's VICTORY in looking towards the Heaven above! Yours Michelle Robinson
Joseph-I am so thankful that I am yours and you are mine -W4L!
“LOVE, there are no words that can express just how much you mean to me in my life. I thank our Lord Jesus for you everyday Sweetheart HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!” To: Lori Charlton From her husband: Andrew (Skinny)
The Day of the Lord Ministries celebrates February Birthdays Liz Compton Donald LeBleu Jeffrey Offutt Ryan Paul Teel Dwayne Treadwell Eric Daniels Esmeralda Schwartz Paulette Martin Carol Porter Patrick Pace Jr. Norman Hubbard Richard Kussmaul Michael Wilson Anthony Chavez
1-Feb 2-Feb 2-Feb 2-Feb 2-Feb 3-Feb 5-Feb 5-Feb 6-Feb 6-Feb 6-Feb 7-Feb 8-Feb 8-Feb
Lori Mikayla Wilson Trinity Wilson Sherry Lewis Jaliyah Cleveland Tanasha Hall-Ross Michael Kimmel Quinton Ray John Lewis Valerie Simmons John Ellis Marco Perkins Pastor Charles Parker EJ Maddox
10-Feb 13-Feb 14-Feb 15-Feb 17-Feb 17-Feb 19-Feb 20-Feb 22-Feb 22-Feb 26-Feb 26-Feb 27-Feb
Anniversaries Virgil & Shy Wilson Eric & Linda Daniels Ocie & Gwen Taylor Steven & Lyndie Chaney
2-Feb 3-Feb 5-Feb 13-Feb
Trivia Winner Melisa Bueno - Hobby Unit
SALVATION IS FREE!
Thinking of you on your special day and sending warmest thoughts your way. Asking God to hold you near and bless you with each passing year. God Bless you on your birthday. -Virgil & Shy Wilson