December 9, 1999

"Thank You"

“The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective” James 5:16b

Dear Precious Saints of God,

I would like to say a heartfelt “Thank you” for all of the prayers, support and love that you demonstrated for me while I was incarcerated in the Lynchburg City Jail. Just as Moses stood in the Gap for Israel, so too, did you stand in the gap for the inmates and myself. During the past three months, I watched the Lord do some miraculous things, not only in my life, but in the lives of the other inmates and Corrections Officers within cell block A-1. Your prayers have touched the ears of our Gracious and Merciful God, who, by hearing them, reached out and embraced 12 sinful men, forgiving them of their iniquities.

Our wonderful Father set these men free from bondage’s that had held them captive, and put new songs of ever-lasting life in their mouths. Jesus Christ brought freedom to the Lynchburg City Jail! The Lord also sent a Holy Conviction to 16 backslidden Christian men (including a Correction Officer), who by the power of the Holy Spirit, have decided to walk practical holy lives in Christ, putting the world and its lusts behind them and setting their eyes on Jesus Christ, the Author and Finisher of their faith. God is faithful. He heard your prayers and answered them!

For those of you who had written me while I was incarcerated, I want to say “Thank you” for taking the time to encourage my heart. I received over 1200 letters while I was in jail, and I was blessed as I read every single one of them! Reading your cards and letters was always one of my favorite parts of the day. The other inmates also enjoyed them as well and were blessed to hear of what the Lord had been doing in your lives. The tracts I had received to hand out to the inmates were also a blessing. These little “Gospel Carriers” made their way into every hand that entered and left cell A-1. For those of you who had written me while I was incarcerated, I want to say “Thank you” for taking the time to encourage my heart. I received over 1200 letters while I was in jail, and I was blessed as I read every single one of them! Reading your cards and letters was always one of my favorite parts of the day. The other inmates also enjoyed them as well and were blessed to hear of what the Lord had been doing in your lives. The tracts I had received to hand out to the inmates were also a blessing. These little “Gospel Carriers” made their way into every hand that entered and left cell A-1.

For those of you who had sent me money orders for my canteen fund, I would like to say “Thank you”. With that money I was able to purchase shampoo, soap, toothpaste, deodorant, paper, envelopes, pens, a toothbrush, socks, underwear and T-shirts. I was also able to minister to some of the other inmates by buying for them what they needed. Many of these men lacked the support of friends and family and therefore had no one to send them financial help during their incarceration. Your contributions for me helped clothe these men with underwear and T-shirts and also provided for them deodorant, soap, toothpaste,toothbrushes and shampoo. You helped the poor and needy inside the Lynchburg City Jail by blessing them with essential items that they needed. Thank you for giving to those less fortunate.

For those of you who sent financial gifts to help me pay my fine, rent, and college tuition, I would like to say “Thank you”. Your kindness and generosity will always be remembered by me. You saw that I had a need in those areas and through the prompting of the Holy Spirit, you didn’t hesitate to help me. Thank you very much.

Again, my brothers and sisters in Christ, “Thank you” for all of your prayers, encouragement, support and love for me while I was in the Lynchburg City Jail. My cup overflows with thankfulness and love for you. You are a blessing to me and a joy to our Father’s heart. May the LORD richly bless you for your steadfastness in prayer and your continuing efforts as you storm the gates of hell in this nation, proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ to the World.

Your Brother and fellow Warrior,

John D. Reyes