Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Independence Day is upon us.  We see red, white, and blue everywhere we look. Picnics are scheduled, barbeques are fired up, flags are flown, all in celebration of our freedom from tyranny when the original 13 North American colonies broke away from England.  The USA became an independent nation, free to choose its own path in laws and government structure.  This freedom came at great cost – many people gave their lives in a revolutionary war that dragged on for years.  Now every American can enjoy freedoms secured through the selfless acts of soldiers across the country.

Christians around the world can celebrate a similar yet more significant story.  Every person on Earth can enjoy freedoms over sin and death that were secured for us at great cost, although it wasn’t by many who gave their lives over many years.  It was one man – Jesus of Nazareth – the Christ – the Son of God – who achieved these freedoms for us by giving His life on a Roman cross about 2000 years ago, then rising from the dead 3 days later as He said He would.

Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.  Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever.  So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. (John 8:34-36)

Now those who choose to believe in Him and accept His gift of righteousness in exchange for our sinfulness have the freedom to choose love, and the freedom to live with God for eternity.  And what God asks in exchange is that we love Him and love one another, and tell everyone how they can be free as well.

In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. (Ephesians 3:12)

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.  For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Galatians 5:13-14)

Our wonderful chaplains in Chester County Prison consistently share this Good News among the inmates and staff, and all who would listen.  Rhonda and Heinrich freely share what God has given them, as should we all.  Thank you for your support of this ministry, and as we celebrate our nation’s freedom, may we also share with others the freedom available in Christ Jesus.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from Chaplain Rhonda

Prayer requests for this week:

A.N. – leaving for rehab this week; dealing with mental health & trauma issues; very much wanting to “get it right” and re-connect with God, but “so scared” she will backslide again. She was very fearful; please pray that she will keep God at the center of her focus and trust Him to deliver her.

M.O. – left for rehab a few days ago; also wanting to reconnect with her Christian faith; very sweet and sincere; pray that she stays the course.

B.H. – back in CCP; requested a Bible and material to help grow her faith; asking for prayer for her son and grandmom.

K.S. – back in CCP after numerous previous incarcerations; asking for “prayer and spiritual guidance”.

T.J. – also back after numerous past incarcerations; serious mental health issues; seeking faith in God; please pray God will step in and change her life.

Also, please pray for the several older women (65 & over) in the prison population. A new one (68), a first-timer, just came in a few days ago. Not sure what’s bringing them in at this age, but pray that they encounter God while here.

Prayers from Onesimus Ministries

For Chaplain Heinrich and wife Susan to experience blessings of grace, mercy, and safety as they travel throughout Africa.  May they bless so many others on this trip, while achieving their goals along the way.

God’s blessings on Chaplain Rhonda for extra strength and endurance to cover all chaplain duties while Heinrich is abroad.

Thank you, Lord, for progress made towards opening the prison to volunteers once more.  May your peace and motivation of love for us overcome any remaining obstacles so that we might minister in person to those in prison.

We ask your blessings of peace, good health, and prosperity upon all staff, inmates, and families connected with Chester County prison.

We ask for your protection of inmates hearts, minds, and souls, that they would seek You as the answer to what is missing in their lives.

May the Bible Studies and fellowships happening on the cell blocks continue to spread your Good News to all that would hear it.

Please pour out your continued blessings upon the aftercare ministries that take care of the women and men released from prison, as they try and make a new way in life.  May the clients continue to build upon the foundation of Christ, and may the ministries enjoy abundant resources and volunteers to get the job done.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at info@onesimusministries.org.

These weekly prayer requests are also posted on our website – https://onesimusministries.org/category/weekly-prayer-requests/

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www.onesimusministries.org

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

What motivates us?  What is it inside of us that moves us to take action, and determines what that action looks like?

There are many worldly motivations out there – greed, lust, power, pleasure, worldly wisdom, wealth – and the wisest man who ever lived had a similar question. King Solomon had the power and wealth to pursue every motivation we can think of, and do you know what he found out?  It all leads to nothing! 

The book of Ecclesiastes is all about how he pursued each secular motivation to its logical end, and determined one after another that they were all worthless.  The whole book can be summed up in the first 2 verses, and the last 2 verses.

These are the words of the Teacher, King David’s son, who ruled in Jerusalem.  “Everything is meaningless,” says the Teacher, “completely meaningless!” (Ecclesiastes 1:1-2)

That’s the whole story. Here now is my final conclusion: Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty. God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad. (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14)

So the wisest man who ever lived summed it all up – the right motivation in life is to fear God and obey his commands.  We need only look further into God’s Word to understand what that means.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction. (Proverbs 1:7)

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. (Proverbs 9:10)

“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.  (Matthew 22:36-40)

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.  By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:34-35)

My best understanding is God wants our primary motivation in life to be what His motivation has been all along – Love.  That’s why he created us and the world we live in.  That’s why He sent Jesus.  And that’s why Jesus died for our sins.  It was all for love.  And since we are created in His image, we can find our best selves if we are motivated by love.

I truly believe that’s what motivates our wonderful chaplains in Chester County Prison to do what they do each day.  I’m thankful for knowing them and witnessing their example.  I’m also thankful for each one of you who support this ministry week after week, year after year.  I have to believe the reason you do it is because of love – and how God wants us to love one another.  Thank you for following His command – may you have a blessed week.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from Chaplain Rhonda

Prayer requests for the week:

K.J. – very sweet and sincere young woman, wanting to turn her life around and desiring to get to know God while she was here; recently left, please pray for her.

C.P. – Sentenced to rehab: “which is ok. God places me where He wants me when He wants me there! I’ve learned that recently. The literature you gave me was amazing! God getting my attention really hit home. He has let me know I need a church home to fellowship!”

E.M. – Sent a desperate note: “Not sure when I’m leaving for rehab but I know I can’t see my boys or hear them cause of no more money on the phone. Boys need me so I pray this (rehab) works. I don’t want to hurt my boys. They need me and I need them. I miss my husband.”

C.C. – “I would like to speak with you please. I need lots of guidance immediately, and prayers and a Bible.”

S.B. – “Hello, may I have a journal to keep myself writing my thoughts. It helps with my anxiety.”

Prayers from Onesimus Ministries

Grace and Mercy for Chaplain Heinrich and wife Susan as they travel throughout South Africa.  May they accomplish all they set out to do, and bless them to be a blessing to others.

Blessings of extra strength and endurance for Chaplain Rhonda as she covers all chaplain duties as Heinrich is travelling.

Lord, please inspire and motivate the right people in leadership to move forward with opening the prison to religious volunteers, and we ask you to thwart any resistance put in place by the enemy.

Please protect the hearts, minds, and bodies of all the inmates and staff at the prison.

May your peace be felt throughout the prison population.

Blessings upon the fellowships and Bible studies happening among the inmates – may you reveal yourself to them in a real way.

For each and every ministry across Chester County that cares for men and women released from prison.  May you bless each of these ministries with the volunteers and resources they need to effectively disciple ex-inmates and help them grow into men and women of faith that inspire others.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at info@onesimusministries.org.

These weekly prayer requests are also posted on our website – https://onesimusministries.org/category/weekly-prayer-requests/

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www.onesimusministries.org

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

We are so blessed to have God’s Word so readily available to us.  We can easily find it in many languages and various translations, so there’s really no excuse to not read or study it every day. God wants us to immerse ourselves in His living Word, which is the only book that can renew and transform our minds.

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2)

“Most of all, let the Word of God fill you and renew your mind every day. When our minds are on Christ, Satan has little room to maneuver.” — Billy Graham

God makes some significant promises to those to meditate on His Word – so how do we do that?  Unlike some eastern methods where the goal is to empty one’s mind, the goal of Christian meditation is to fill one’s mind with God’s Word and seek his mind.

This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. (Joshua 1:8)

Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do. (Psalm 1:1-3)

There are numerous ways to study/meditate on the Word – my favorite is simple yet effective.  Rick Warren calls it the “pronounce it” method, where you simply take one verse at a time, and you read it over and over, emphasizing the different major words each time, and thinking about that aspect of the verse.

For example, using John 3:16

For GOD so loved the world, that He gave his only Son…

For God so LOVED the world, that He gave his only Son…

For God so loved THE WORLD, that He gave his only Son…

For God so loved the world, that He GAVE his only Son…

(you get the idea)

Prison inmates not only have Bibles available to them, they also have a lot of time on their hands. Thank God we have our wonderful Chaplains Rhonda and Heinrich inside the prison each day to make those Bibles available and encourage the inmates to “dive in”.  Let’s pray they do just that.  And thanks for your tireless efforts to pray each week for our chaplains, the inmates and staff of Chester County Prison, and the specific prayer requests that get called out each week.  May God reward you for time spent in His Word and in prayer.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from Chaplain Rhonda

Prayer requests for the week:

M.O. – “I am requesting (the) Life Recovery Bible and work book. I read my cellmate’s first few pages and it broke me down. I don’t read much but cannot wait to read this. Thank you!”

A.R. – finally leaving CCP after a LONG stay; found faith in God while she was here. Pray that she stays strong in Him and keeps Him as her Refuge.

V.G. – a sweet young woman who has a very low estimation of herself; blames herself for everything; self-loathing has been ingrained into her. Please pray that she really finds out who she is through a relationship with God, and finds out who HE says she is.

A.P. – another sweet young woman, seeking to find peace in God after years of drug abuse and addiction.

Thanks to all who prayed for me as I spent time touring the Holy Land. I so appreciate all your prayers. I had an absolutely amazing time there! What a special place!!

Prayers from Onesimus Ministries

Grace and Mercy for Chaplain Heinrich and wife Susan as they prepare for a trip to South Africa.  May they accomplish all they set out to do, and be blessed as they are a blessing to others.

For God to make a way to finally open the prison doors to religious volunteers once again, and give us the chance to minister to inmates in person.

Health and peace among the prison population.

For every inmate to take seriously the will of God to study His word and make disciples.

Blessings upon all the Chester County aftercare ministries, that they may effectively disciple the men and women released from prison as they rebuild their lives on the foundation of God’s truth.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at info@onesimusministries.org.

These weekly prayer requests are also posted on our website – https://onesimusministries.org/category/weekly-prayer-requests/

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

My Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

At church on Sunday the Pastor interviewed a congregation member that presented the gospel message to a group of teens at a graduation party.  The interview demonstrated the effectiveness of an evangelism tool we’ve been learning called “the three circles”.  I was amazed not only by the courage of the presenter, but how engaged the teens were as he laid out the gospel message.  I guess you never know when people might be receptive to hearing about salvation, which is probably why Peter told us to always be ready.

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect (1Peter 3:15)

The presenter demonstrated his willingness to step out of his comfort zone, and in the power of the Holy Spirit he engaged with the youth.  If only we all were so bold in following the Great Commission.

Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20)

Chaplains Heinrich and Rhonda exhibit that boldness often within Chester County prison, as many inmates take stock of their lives in prison and become quite receptive to hearing about God’s love and forgiveness.  We are so blessed to have them serving in there every week, and are also blessed by many of you who support the ministry with prayers and resources.  Thanks for your willingness to get involved.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from Chaplain Heinrich

Please pray for:

DM: His aunt passed away last Friday. She was a significant figure in his life. DM identifies with the Muslim religion. Pray that this event will find the Lord Jesus Christ

CM: He is a neighbor of one of the CCGM staff members and was involved in a shooting incident in Coatesville.

JT: He wants a Good and Evil Comic Bible (produced by Michael Pearl of No Greater Joy Ministries) “for a better understanding of the Bible”.

AS: “I’m in RHU now. My first day was rough and I’m not gonna be able to sustain my time here”.

Prayers from Onesimus Ministries

Thanks for Chaplain Rhonda’s safe return from her Israel trip, and may her experiences there inspire even more passion to share the Good News.

Travel mercies for Chaplain Heinrich and wife Susan as they prepare for a trip to South Africa.  May it be a wonderful time of refreshing, and return to us safely.

Thankfulness for slow but steady progress towards re-opening the prison to religious volunteers.  May the various ministries that go into the prison continue to hone their skills and be ready once the time comes.

May the inmates and staff experience good health, good spirits, and a sense of Christ’s peace in the prison each day.

For each inmate to take a good look at the decisions that led them to this point in their life, and be inspired to now make the best decision ever – for Christ – to transform the rest of their life.

We lift up the aftercare ministries throughout Chester County that minister to released inmates from the prison – may they have all they need in resources and volunteers to be effective disciplers.  And may they witness the growth that God brings to each individual client.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at info@onesimusministries.org.

These weekly prayer requests are also posted on our website – https://onesimusministries.org/category/weekly-prayer-requests/

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

My Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

We are thankful for Chaplain Heinrich stepping in to cover for Chaplain Rhonda during her trip to Israel. We pray she will be blessed by this trip, as much as my wife and I were last year in October when we had the opportunity to tour Israel with a church group.  Everyone at church kept telling me “you’ll never read the Bible the same way again” – and they were right!  Now when I read of Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane, I can picture it because I was there.  In fact, one of the olive trees we saw in that garden was over 2000 years old – it was there when Jesus cried out to the Father before going to the cross. Simply amazing.

We were in the upper room where the last supper was served, we walked through Caiaphas’ house where they brought Jesus before the High Priest, and we visited Golgotha where Jesus hung on a cross. But the most moving experience was walking into the garden tomb and seeing where Joseph laid Jesus’ body after His crucifixion.  Incredible as that was, the more important thing is that the tomb is empty!  Our Savior is risen!  We worshipped and celebrated communion just a few feet away – I will never forget that!

Overall, it felt like following the footsteps of Jesus was the next best thing to being there with Him.  It put a more solid sense of reality to all we read in the Bible.  Yet I still take great comfort in what Jesus told Thomas after His resurrection…

Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” (John 20:29)

A few years ago, we didn’t have the resources to take such a trip.  I often prayed and asked God to make a way for us to tour the Holy Land.  We had to wait 2 years because of covid, but He came through and totally blessed us.  I highly recommend this trip for every Christian. Ask God to make a way for you to go – you will never read your Bible the same way again!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from Chaplain Heinrich

Please pray for:

NM: “Seeking spiritual direction. I’m hearing voices and seeing visions”.

MA: “I’m very much in need of ministerial counseling”.

TC: “I would like your prayers for myself and my daughter that we may overcome financial crisis and housing hardship”.

EN: “May I please have a ‘Jesus Calling’ book? Pray that the Holy Spirit will answer this heart-cry.

Prayers from Onesimus Ministries

For Chaplain Rhonda Soland to be blessed in significant ways while touring Israel. And that the Lord would bring her back to us safely.

For Chester County prison to follow the example of all the State Prisons and open their doors to religious volunteers, that we might once again minister in person to inmates.

For Chaplain Heinrich to have the strength and stamina to keep up with both his and Rhonda’s work.

For good health, good spirits, and a sense of Christ’s peace throughout the prison.

For quick healing and recovery for those suffering from any infirmity within the prison.

For inmates to continue to seek out and pursue Christ, and find Him.  May each one be blessed beyond measure as they enjoy the hope they now have in assured salvation through Christ alone.

For the aftercare ministries that receive released inmates from Chester County – may they continue in strength and availability to help those who need it.  For wisdom and endurance of the volunteers, and for great blessing of the clients to more readily seek after You.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at info@onesimusministries.org.

These weekly prayer requests are also posted on our website – https://onesimusministries.org/category/weekly-prayer-requests/

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

My Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

God blessed us with a beautiful weekend to celebrate Memorial Day.  To some, it’s nothing more than the unofficial start to Summer vacation season.  But for veteran families this holiday holds special meaning.  We commemorate those who made the ultimate sacrifice in military service to our country. We enjoy many freedoms in this country, from living and working wherever we want, to unrestricted travel and openly worshipping whichever faith we choose. Securing and maintaining these freedoms came at a cost, and on Memorial Day we remember those who paid that cost.

Sounds very similar to another situation, where we enjoy freedom from the power of sin in our lives and no longer fear death since we’re promised eternal life. And these freedoms for all people for all time were paid for by one man dying on a cross as the ultimate sacrifice.

So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. (John 8:36)

So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law. (Galatians 5:1)

So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. (Romans 8:1-2)

We are reminded of Christ’s sacrifice every week at church, although Christians should commemorate it every day.  Another freedom we enjoy is to pray openly, and we certainly appreciate all of you exercising that ability on a regular basis.  Thanks as always for your ongoing support – God bless your week!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from Chaplain Heinrich

Please pray for:

Chaplain Rhonda Soland while touring Israel. Pray for safety and blessing.

D.B.- “I’m new here”. Pray for him and other inmates who enter prison life for the first time. The shock is intense.

R.R.- “I need a Bible for my ‘spiritual dilemmas’ in here. Pray for true insight and conviction.

Prayers from Onesimus Ministries

Lord, we pray your timing would be soon for re-opening Chester County Prison to volunteers to take your Word inside the gates and minister to your people in person.

We also pray that the many volunteer organizations that used to go into CCP will be ready and able once the way is clear.

We ask for wisdom, strength, and a daily filling of your Spirit for Chaplains Heinrich and Rhonda as they are your hands and feet within the prison walls each day.

Please protect the health of staff and inmates who operate in close quarters, and restore the health of those who have fallen ill.

We ask for compassion and peace between inmates and staff.

We ask for many hearts to turn to you at their time of greatest need, with the faith that you will meet them where they are and lift them from the miry clay.

We ask your blessing upon the aftercare ministries that take care of the men and women recently released from prison. May those ministries have ample volunteers and the support they need to effectively help their clients maintain their footing on the path that leads ultimately to You.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at info@onesimusministries.org.

These weekly prayer requests are also posted on our website – https://onesimusministries.org/category/weekly-prayer-requests/

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Over the weekend, Rick Warren’s Daily Hope devotionals have been addressing the idea of integrity, which is pretty important among believers.  It affects how we are seen by others, lends credibility to our witness, and can serve as a lasting legacy after we’re gone. 

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. (Matthew 5:8)

How we act when no one is watching should be the same way we act when everyone is watching.  To do otherwise would be hypocritical.  God wants us to be who He made us to be no matter who is watching, and remember that He is always watching!

Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out. (Proverbs 10:9)

Integrity means keeping promises, refusing to gossip, doing our best at work, and being real with others. Most people can spot a phony, and we don’t want to be that person – especially if they know we’re a Christian.  When we bear His name as Christians, we must take it seriously. 

“You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain. (Exodus 20:7)

I recently heard a deeper definition of the 3rd  commandment – that as Christians we take His name, and if we are no different than everyone else, we are taking the Lord’s name in vain.  I believe integrity is a really big deal with God, and I’m thankful for having many people in my life whose integrity is woven throughout the fabric of their life.  Two of them I mention here quite often – Chaplain Heinrich and Chaplain Rhonda.  It’s been an absolute pleasure getting to know them the last few years, and we could all do well to model their daily service to “the least of these” in the prison.  Please continue to lift them up in prayer, along with the prayer requests they present here every week.  And thanks for being the prayer warrior God called you to be.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from Chaplain Heinrich

Please pray for:

K.T. – a 60-year old man, who spent more than half of his life in the prison system, has been running from God for decades and is now afraid to return to Him.

The 8 inmates who today received Bibles, daily devotionals, other literature and a one year Bible reading plan. Pray that God will use these tools to His own honor.

MaryBeth Finn, wife of Mark Finn, a faithful religious volunteer at CCP and the coordinator of the prison ministry at Calvary Chapel Chester Springs. Mark recently passed away after a long battle with cancer.

A.E. – He demonstrates no insight and/or brokenness about his actions that caused his incarceration.

Prayers from Onesimus Ministries

For prison ministry to be allowed to flourish once again within Chester County Prison, and that the prison chapel would once again become a center of faith-based activity instead of remaining dark as it’s been since the beginning of covid.

Daily strength and wisdom for Chaplains Rhonda and Heinrich as they minister to everyone out at Chester County Prison.

Peace and good health among the inmates and the staff within Chester County Prison.

That more men and women at Chester County Prison would take this time to reflect on their life and make the best decision possible – to accept the Lord.

Prayers of blessing for aftercare ministries helping recently released men and women build upon a foundation of faith that may have begun or been re-ignited during their prison stay.  May God bless the ministry workers and clients alike, that they would be a blessing to others.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at info@onesimusministries.org.

These weekly prayer requests are also posted on our website – https://onesimusministries.org/category/weekly-prayer-requests/

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

While in State College this past weekend for my daughter’s 30th birthday party, we attended my daughter’s church where a guest preacher spoke about blessing.  Blessings and curses were mentioned throughout the Old Testament, and they held weight among God’s people in both the physical and the spiritual realm.  Yet nowadays we hardly speak of blessings outside of describing a person’s good fortune, and I can’t recall the last time I’ve heard talk about a curse. 

We have it in our power to give our blessing to friends and family, and a Father’s blessing still means something in traditional circles.  We can live into and continue generational blessing by consistently reminding our children (and others around us) that we love them and are pleased with who they are (not necessarily what they’ve done).  We find the perfect example of a Father’s blessing at the baptism of Jesus in Matthew 3:

As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him.  And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:16-17)

Some may also be living under curses, even generational curses, being told they’re no good, can’t do anything right, or will never amount to much.  In fact, the absence of a parental blessing can in some ways be a curse.  I imagine a great deal of men and women who find themselves in prison can relate to that experience. We can thank God once again for a His solution –

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. (1John 4:4)

So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. (John 8:36)

We must never underestimate the power of our words – we have the choice to bless or curse whenever we speak with anyone.

“Gentle words bring life and health; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.” (Proverbs 15:4)

Our wonderful Chaplains Rhonda and Heinrich know that very well, and are there in Chester County Prison as God’s representatives to bless and not to curse, and to remind them of God’s agape love and forgiveness that is so much greater than any curse here on earth.

Thank you for your blessing of this prison ministry through prayer and other means of support.  I pray God would pour out His blessing upon each of you in a very real way this week.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from Chaplain Rhonda

Prayer requests for this week:

A.W. – came in with no faith; was here a long time; left with a new-found and growing faith in God; going to state prison.

J. K. – recently left CCP after turning to God.

M. I. – wrote:  “I really need to sit and speak with you. I just had a death in my family and I have a few questions I’m hoping you can help me with so I can find some kind of inner peace right now.”  Please pray that she finds the “inner peace” (aka Jesus) she’s seeking.

T. K. – asking for prayer for upcoming court date.

Prayers from Onesimus Ministries

Blessings of peace, strength, endurance, compassion, and wisdom upon Chaplains Rhonda and Heinrich as they minister to everyone out at Chester County Prison day after day.

That the staff and inmates (and their families) would be blessed with good health – physically, mentally, and relationally.

For revival within the prison walls where many open their hearts and are moved by the Spirit of God to accept the reality of Jesus Christ as the only hope and the only answer to our sinful condition.

For decisions to be made once and for all to allow in-person ministry to resume at the prison, and for chapel services to be green-lighted once again.  Volunteers have been eagerly standing by for over 3 years – but Lord, we wait for your perfect timing.

Blessings upon the aftercare ministries helping men and women recently released from prison to cope/assimilate to life on the outside, building upon a foundation of faith that may have begun or been re-ignited during their prison stay.  We ask God’s blessing upon the many ministry workers and clients alike.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at info@onesimusministries.org.

These weekly prayer requests are also posted on our website – https://onesimusministries.org/category/weekly-prayer-requests/

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

How often do we have opportunity to share the Gospel?  More than you might think.  People all around us- at work, the store, the gas station, in our favorite restaurants- wherever you look, people need Jesus.  Often the best opportunities come from unlikely places, and as followers of Christ we need to be ready.

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15)

My Christian Motorcyclists Association chapter had such opportunity Sunday afternoon.  A West Reading motorcycle club asked us to provide a “bike blessing” at their May meeting (we don’t actually bless motorcycles, we pray for riders).  After a group prayer, we ask everyone to stand by their bike for a personal blessing.  We split into teams and before we pray for each individual, we ask if there’s anything else we can pray for- at work, in the family, health-related – and almost always, something comes up.  It really touches people- yes, even outlaw bikers- when you pray for something meaningful to them.  It shows we care, and opens them up a little more to receiving God’s love and the message of salvation. 

Some ministries stress about getting folks to make a decision for Christ in one conversation.  I think that’s pretty rare, especially with someone  you just met!  Personally, I’ll rely on the Bible, like Paul’s words to the Corinthian church…

Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one?  I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.  So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase.  Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor. (1 Corinthians 3:5-8)

We may never know if we’re planting seeds, or watering what someone else may have planted, but we are called to tell others the Good News of salvation made possible through the blood of Christ shed on the cross for us all.

Chaplains Heinrich and Rhonda have similar opportunities every day in Chester County Prison, and these opportunities are consistently met with Christ’s love and the Gospel message thanks to their obedience and their presence, made possible by supporters of this ministry.  And prayer support is every bit as essential as financial support. Thank you everyone for the part you play in meeting the needs of inmates and prison staff and their families.  God bless you for your faithfulness!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from Chaplain Heinrich

Please Pray for:

DC: He had a bad relationship with his father who passed away on Friday after surgery. Pray that DC may discover his Father in Heaven.

AE: Pray for brokenness and honesty among all involved. Thank God for extremely concerned family, friends and neighbors.

JD: Very confused young man with serious spiritual/mental (and probably demonic) challenges.

CW: “Want to see a Chaplain about a religious emergency”.

Prayers from Onesimus Ministries

For all the inmates (and their families) to stay healthy – physically, mentally, and relationally.

For those inmates really thinking about their life and what it all means- that they would open their heart to God and seek His face by asking their questions to Christian inmates and the prison Chaplains.

We ask God to provide the open doors for in-person ministry to inmates to resume, and for chapel services to be held once again.  We pray that the prison chapel would once again be a hub of activity throughout the week.

For the hearts of prison staff to be filled with compassion, and the hearts of inmates to be filled with respect for staff, and for peace to reign throughout the prison each day.

For all the aftercare ministries helping the recently released men and women to cope/assimilate to life outside prison, and to build upon a foundation of faith that may have begun or been re-ignited during their prison stay.  We pray success for ministry workers and clients alike.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at info@onesimusministries.org.

These weekly prayer requests are also posted on our website – https://onesimusministries.org/category/weekly-prayer-requests/

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Over the weekend, my church held a meal-packing event to assemble and send 50,000 dehydrated meals to victims of the devastating earthquakes in Syria and Turkey back in February, where thousands died and millions became homeless.  It was wonderful to see families and individuals of all ages from the community and several different churches come together to follow what Jesus told us to do – love our neighbors.

“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”  Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matthew 22:36-40)

Technology has made our world much smaller, and who we consider neighbors goes beyond the folks living next door.  My wife and I served on the support team, which made it a long, hard weekend, but it was so worth the effort.  For those who live a joyless life, the rewards of blessing people you will never meet may be hard to comprehend. But my advice to everyone is just try it – you’ll see.

Many people are depressed these days, yet the Holy Spirit gave us the solution through the apostle Paul 2000 years ago (and psychiatrists today are just discovering this) – serving others:

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Look not only to your own interests, but to the interests of others.  In your relationships with one another, have the very attitude of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 2:3-5)

Happiness is fleeting, and depends on circumstances.  Joy comes from within when you follow God’s Word.  I pray that all of you will have opportunities to find true joy in this life. Serving the men and women in prison brings joy to our Chaplains – Heinrich and Rhonda – and I hope your support of this prison ministry through prayer and other means will bring you joy as well.  God bless your week!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from Chaplain Rhonda

Requests for this week:

B. D. –  an older inmate, incarcerated for the 2nd time in less than 4 months; asking for “spiritual guidance”.

C. M. – another older inmate (62), back in CCP; dealing with multiple issues.

T. C. – went out of CCP to have surgery; back in and recuperating; excited to be learning more about a relationship with God.

V. D. & K. J. – both first-timers; both religious “none’s”, and both seeking “spiritual guidance and advice”. Pray that God gets a hold of their hearts.

L. K.  Recently left CCP; pray that she will continue on her journey w/ God which she started while in here.

Praises to the Lord for continuing to work and stir in the hearts of the women, as I am noticing increased responsiveness from them.

Prayers from Onesimus Ministries

Lord, grant the inmates health and wellbeing  in their physical, mental, and social/relational being.

We pray the will of God our Savior, who desires all people (including inmates) to be saved and come to the knowledge of the Truth (1 Timothy 2:3-4)

We pray for open doors to the prison volunteers, that in-person ministry to inmates and having church services would resume without delay.

We lift up the staff and leadership of Chester County Prison, and pray God’s blessing to resolve key issues around staffing and covid restrictions.

May there be peace among the inmate population. And may those in solitary confinement find the Lord meeting them in the depths of their despair.

We pray for the various aftercare ministries that assist men and women getting out of prison to build a new life upon the foundation of Christ which may have begun (or re-started) in prison.  May volunteer mentors be plentiful, and churches willing to step into the gap, that more women and men could be served.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at info@onesimusministries.org.

These weekly prayer requests are also posted on our website – https://onesimusministries.org/category/weekly-prayer-requests/

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org