Only One Son – In the Line of Duty

“He is not here: for He is risen, as He said!” Matthew 28:6

Greetings, Friends and Prayer Partners, This is the time of year that is called Easter … we commemorate the death, and especially the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ! We trust that this will be a time of drawing near to Him, and praising Him for so great salvation! We cannot comprehend the magnificent love of our precious Heavenly Father in sacrificing His Only Son for the likes of us! But, we praise Him for it, and pray that you, along with us, will be more faithful in loving and serving Him. He has been so faithful to us in so many ways.

We thank you for your faithful prayers; we’ve sensed them as we have seen God’s enabling in the meetings and ministry in the past weeks. (We are very much aware of the weakness and frailty of these human bodies. How good to know that “… the inward man is renewed day by day …” – II Corinthians 4:16

As you continue to pray for us, we would like to pray for you, too; please send us your specific requests so that we can rejoice with you as God sees fit to answer. Here are some of ours:
* For strength and stamina, and spiritual refreshing … that we “might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;” Colossians 1:9b
* For wisdom and provision of some needed equipment – a laptop with a greater capacity and speed (our present one is filled up and tired), and a multi-media projector for presentations – most churches we’re in do not have this availability …
* For continued improvement in health for Ray, especially with the lungs …
* For Barb’s allergy problems, as the pollen season is here …
* For the salvation of God’s “ministers” – law enforcement officers
* For upcoming meetings:
April 26th – BASIS Annual Breakfast, Aldan, PA
April 27th – Andalusia Baptist Church – AM Service (Bensalem, PA)
April 28th/29th – North /Mid-Atlantic Regional Training – ICPC (International Conference of Police Chaplains) at Springfield, MA
April 30th – Teleconference on “Living with Grief – Coping with Public Tragedy” – Albany, NY
May 3rd /4th – National Police Parade, Newport, Rhode Island

At a recent pastors’ conference, Ray was recommended to help determine personnel and resources available regarding crisis intervention, when another tragedy like “911” happens. We ask prayer for this responsibility. The question is not “if”, but “when and where?”

In a new tract that came in the mail recently, written by a teacher we had in Bible College, Charles Ryrie, he mentioned the Middle East … that “History began there (the traditional site of the Garden of Eden is near present-day Babylon in Iraq). The most important event in history happened there (in Jerusalem … where the Lord Jesus Christ died for the sins of the world). History’s final showdown will take place there (Armageddon … a lush valley in the northern part of Israel).”

Dr. Ryrie went on to say, “Is the world out of control? … Sometimes sin must be allowed to run its course to reveal what people are really like. Although God is in control that does not mean that He causes the evil which we see all around us. Evil people cause evil, and sometimes they become tyrants who inflict their unrestrained desires on innocent victims. But God will not allow evil to flourish unchecked forever. Every person – whether a tyrant or not – will ultimately be examined and judged by a holy God.”

Certainly the soon-coming of the Lord Jesus for His Bride, the Church, challenges us to be ready and looking – Titus 2:11-15! It is an exciting day that we’re living in – for sure! Thank you, again, for your faithfulness in prayer and support. May the Lord continue to encourage and bless you as you remain true to His Word and look forward to His coming – II Timothy 4:8!

In Calvary’s Love,

Barb and Ray

II Timothy 1:12

200 U. S. Route 9, Schroon Lake, NY 12870 (518) 532-9049

Dear Friends and Prayer Partners, greetings, in His Name – Isaiah 9:6 and 7! We are thanking the Lord for some warmer weather, and for actually seeing some of the snow blanket melt! It’s been a loooong winter up here in the North Country! We have much to be thankful for … first of all, for salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, and for the joy of serving Him – He is a good and faithful Saviour!

The Lord has seen fit to send several encouragements in the last couple of weeks! Two different police officers, both in western New York, wrote in order to tell of opportunities for witness among co-workers, and asked that we send more “ONLY ONE SON” tracts. It is a thrill for us to see how the Lord is working! We ask you to pray that the Word will fall on the “good soil” of prepared hearts, and that some will be saved!

Another big encouragement is seeing how an officer, who has become a good friend, has been saved, and is growing in the Lord! We visited him last week, and can see how the fruit of the Holy Spirit is being reaped in his life. Both of his parents have also received Christ, and all are involved in a good, Gospel-preaching church. Please pray for “Al” – (not his real name, but God knows who he is)!

Thanks so much for your continued prayer for Ray’s health needs. He is feeling stronger; but he is now battling a sore throat and cold. He saw a doctor on the 17th, and is now on Penicillin. Some days are good … some days are not so good …

Meetings are being lined up for the next few months, starting with the Word of Life Law Enforcement Conference, March 28th to 30th.
” Law Enforcement Appreciation Service – Twin Orchards Baptist Church, in Vestal, NY, Pastor Paul Blasko, Morning and Evening Services – 04/06/03
” NY IFCA Regional Bible Conference, Port Crane, NY – 04/07,08/03
” Annual Breakfast for Victims of Crime, Binghamton, NY – 04/09/03
” Sky-Help – a follow-up program for those involved in the WTC/9-11 tragedy, on Long Beach Island, NJ – 04/11-13/03
” BASIS Annual Breakfast, Alden, PA – 04/26/03
” Mid/North Atlantic ICPC (International Conference of Police Chaplains) Work-Shop and Regional meetings, Springfield, MA – 04/28,29/03
” Hospice Teleconference: “Living With Grief – Coping With Public Tragedy” – Albany, NY – 04/30/03 1 to 5 PM

Thank you for praying about our financial situation. We have stayed at about 60% of what our Mission, BCM Int., requires. Hospital insurance cost is increasing by about 25%. Gas prices continue to rise, as well as other items. We know that our Lord will continue to remain faithful, even in this area. He is able!

Also, we are concerned; as we are sure you are, about our Country’s welfare, and the safety of our troops in the Middle East. What a comfort, knowing that, “… the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever He will … He doeth according to His will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth …” Daniel 4:32 and 35 Can His coming be far away? Even so, come, Lord Jesus!

By His Matchless Grace,

Barb and Ray

II Timothy 1:12

Dear Friends and Prayer Partners,

Lots of snow … frigid temperatures … an old-fashioned winter – but, as someone has said, “we’re not in bad shape for the shape we’re in!” Barb’s arthritis and sinuses are giving her a lot of discomfort … it is that time of the year. She continues to teach the ladies’ Bible study group in town on Tuesdays, and is challenged by the in-depth study in preparation. II Timothy 2:15

The Lord continues to bless His ministry! While not being able to travel as much as we would like, contacts still open … email and phone calls have been a source of law enforcement contacts that “stretch” us … the turmoil in today’s unsettled world has caused confusion to the point of suicide – stress in law enforcement is paramount. We would covet your faithful prayers as we seek to be of comfort to those who hurt. The Victorious Lord is their answer … Isaiah 40:28 to 31!

Our car is aging, just like we are, and cries out for attention and maintenance, but we are thankful for the many miles it continues to faithfully carry us! The emergency trip to the hospital the end of October did not permit us to ready our home for the winter, but, guess what, spring is only 5 weeks away (March 20th – at least by the calendar!)!

We have been waiting to hear what Ray’s doctors have decided concerning future treatment. As most of you know, he has been diagnosed with a weakened immune system, and he is susceptible to the strep pneumococcal bug. The hematologist and the infectious disease doctors have agreed not to give intravenous immunoglobulin at this time. They will not treat him with a steady regimen of antibiotics, but will give them at the first sign of infection. He has had a bout with high blood pressure and headaches. (Increased meds have brought the BP down, but the headaches persist. He is scheduled for a CT scan on Monday, February, the 17th.) We do not want to become “paranoid” about these health issues, but need to stay alert so that we can “nip in the bud” any possible infections. Please pray that we will achieve a healthy balance.

Tuesday, February 11th, Ray took part in a government screening program, made available by Mt. Sinai Hospital, NYC. The purpose of the testing is to research the environmental effects on those involved in the World Trade Center bombing, and try to direct them to a proper place for treatment. It was a full day of questions and exams in Albany, almost a 2 hour drive one way. We did not finish up, so it will be necessary to go back this next week

The weekend of the 14th – 16th was to be our first “big trip” – our mission’s staff retreat near Pottstown, PA. We had to cancel due to the headaches and the CT scan. We would appreciate continued prayer for us as we trust day by day in His wisdom and direction …
We do appreciate you for your faithful prayers and financial support … we do sense when you are praying for us! Colossians 4:2 to 4

Love, in Christ,

Barb and Ray

II Timothy 1:12

Christmas Greetings, 2002

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11

Dear Friends,

Our very warmest greetings to you and yours this Christmas season. Our hearts are full of praise to our Living Lord for His gracious plan of salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ. What unheard-of sacrifice and unearthly love, that He would be willing to come to this vile earth to take upon Himself the punishment for our sins. Praise His Name!

This has been a very busy year, full of blessings, times of ministering, and many miles of travel. We have seen God’s Hand of provision many, many times, and we are thankful.

One big provision has been Ray’s restored strength after a three-week stay in the hospital, October 25th through November 15th. His energy level is almost back to normal after being very gravely ill with epiglotitis, an acute throat infection that went into his blood stream, and pneumonia. He had to have a temporary tracheostomy put in, as his air supply was being cut off. Blood tests revealed that he has an immune disorder called Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance – MGUS for short. This involves plasma cells in the bone marrow, and could lead to the more serious problem of Myeloma. But for now the doctors are just monitoring him closely, and we are optimistic about the future.

The Lord opened many doors of witness in the hospital, and since being discharged. Locally, Ray is continuing his chaplaincy work with the Warren County Sheriff’s Department, although other planned meetings had to be postponed or cancelled.

We are very thankful for the prayers of God’s people through Ray’s illness, plus all the emails, cards and expressions of concern. How very dependent we are on each other! We are also very appreciative of all the financial support given by so many of you. May God richly bless you this beautiful Christmas season. Luke 2:1-20

In His Love,

Barb and Ray
Isaiah 40:1-11
Barb and Ray Payne 200 U. S. Route 9 Schroon Lake, NY 12870 (518) 532.9049

Warm greetings, faithful prayer partners and supporters,

As you can see by the calendar, we have a busy couple of months ahead.  We count on the prayers of God’s people .. those of you who allow the Lord to use you in this important way!  We continue to experience God’s marvelous grace, and in every situation, we can sense His physical enabling and strengthening, “… with might by His Spirit in the inner man.” (Ephesians 3:16)   Thank you for praying … please continue … especially through these busy months ahead of us.

Some of the scheduled meetings for August were postponed until a later date, which left us with some much needed time at home for a little “breather.”  The Lord always seems to arrange these times for us just when we need them, even though we don’t know enough to slow down a bit ourselves.

Ray has seen a podiatrist about the severe pain in his feet.  The x-rays proved that there were no stress fractures, and the diagnosis is “neuroma” – which is a trapped nerve.   He has had one cortisone injection in his right foot, which is the worst one, and it has helped some.  He can have two additional injections, and then he will have to have surgery if the pain is not better.

We certainly would appreciate prayer for four of our grandchildren who are in college this fall:
Mike Barnhart      – Pensacola Bible College, in Pensacola, Florida
Erika Barnhart      – Baptist Bible College, in Clarks Summit, Pennsylvania
Jamie Standridge  – Cedarville College, in Cedarville, Ohio
Stephen Dow        – the University of Maine, at Orono, Maine

Our sincere appreciation to all of you who have had a part in this ministry to law enforcement—both with your prayers and with your gifts.  As we see other ministries reaching out to many different people groups, we truly believe that God is giving many souls an opportunity to hear His message of salvation through the Lord Jesus Christ, before the trumpet sounds and the saved are taken up to Heaven!
I Corinthians 15:1-4; Romans 10:9-17

Some of the meetings in September we’d appreciate your prayer for include:

6th to 8th—the Annual CLEO (Christian Law Enforcement Officers) Retreat, in Danforth, Maine, at Living Waters Christian Conference Center (travel to on the 5th and from on the 9th)
10th to 12th—we are being flown out to Fresno (Clovis), California, to be the keynote speaker at a special “911” Service at Northside Christian Church, on Wednesday evening, called “911—Celebrating Hope”
15th—a “911” Service at the Community Bible Church, in South Burlington, Vermont  –  the contact was made through a Vermont State Trooper-friend we have known for quite a while …
22nd—AM Service and a special “Appreciation Service” at Calvary Bible Church, in Derry, New Hampshire at 4:00 PM, which will also include a cook-out for the officers and families attending.
29th—we’ll be in Providence, Rhode Island, at Hope Baptist Church, for a “Law Enforcement Appreciation Service” and dinner … they had a super time last year, and are planning even bigger this year!
After the supper, we head out for Canada, hoping to get at least half way on Sunday afternoon …
30th—to represent “911” and Law Enforcement at an area-wide crusade, at the Carleton Civic Center, in Woodstock, New Brunswick, Canada.  The meetings are called “Strength For Today And Hope For Tomorrow,” and Pete Rice is the evangelist.  We head back to Schroon Lake the next day, and get ready to fly out to Camdenton, Missouri, Friday, for the Annual COPS Parents’ Retreat—October 4th through 7th … so, you see, we really do need your prayers!   Thanks!   Keep in touch!   Psalm 118:24!

By His Grace,

Barb and Ray
II Timothy 1:12