In this powerful episode of Oasis, host Pastor Lonnie Provo is joined by an uplifting lineup of guests, including local business partners and former inmates, to celebrate the ultimate transforming power of Jesus Christ. Pastor Lonnie kicks off the hour by sharing his own profound testimony—reflecting on a time in the 1970s when he actively hated God, the Bible, and religion, before a life-altering surrender in 1980 revealed to him Christ’s universal love for all humanity.
The program features an unexpected, star-studded look at divine deliverance. Pastor Lonnie plays a moving track written and composed by a close friend, nicknamed "TC," who shares how he survived death row and came within 11 days of execution before God stepped in and shifted his fate. Calling into the show, TC reconnects with Pastor Lonnie and the ministry team to deliver a raw, encouraging message to listeners still trapped behind bars, reminding everyone that God is an absolute promise-keeper even in our darkest moments.
The heart of the episode centers on a gripping, first-time testimony from Brother Smiley (Ray Barr), an ex-convict who spent a lifetime cycling through youth detention, state facilities, and federal penitentiaries following a traumatic childhood and a descent into gang violence at the age of 12. Smiley details how a 20-year federal sentence became the wake-up call he desperately needed. Listeners will hear how God relentlessly chased him through prison revivals, miraculously delivered him from a 12-year addiction to drugs and cigarettes, and finally gave him the ultimate courage to cut his ties with gang life forever. Now working as a Chick-fil-A shift leader and pursuing a bachelor's degree in theology, Smiley's life stands as living proof that no matter your past, it is never too late to try Jesus.
Special Ministry Updates & Call-Ins
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Prison Ministry Updates: Regular caller "Mama Nellie" calls in from Kentucky to share vital, touching prayer requests for incarcerated women facing medical issues, brain swelling, and difficult pregnancies, highlighting a collective resolve among the mothers to bring their children into the world.
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An Encouraging Word: In-studio partner Brother Mac joins with Chick-fil-A owner-operator Unit Coxley from Orange, Texas, to shout out current inmates and emphasize how authentic, corporate partnerships can foster true transformation upon re-entry.
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