In this episode of 'Wrong to Strong Chicago,' host Omar Calvillo interviews Jim Kirkland, the Executive Director of Christian Chaplains and Coaching. Jim shares his personal journey, including a transformative encounter with the Holy Spirit at a men's retreat and his initial reluctance to engage in prison ministry, which eventually became a significant part of his calling. Jim discusses his experience meeting and ministering to some of the most hardened prisoners and seeing their lives change th...
Jun 27, 2025•57 min
Arturo Gamino from "Wrong to Strong" delivers a two-minute devotional discussing whether it is easier to live as a Christian or as a non-believer. He references various scriptures such as Matthew 11:28-30, Proverbs 16:25, Galatians 6:8, and Galatians 5:22-23 to illustrate that choosing to live in submission to God leads to a simpler, more peaceful life despite challenges. Arturo emphasizes that a Christian life, guided by scripture, the Holy Spirit, and anchored in spiritual fruits like love, jo...
Jun 25, 2025•4 min
In this episode of the Wrong to Strong two Minute Devotional, Omar Calvillo wishes all fathers a happy Father's Day and congratulates recent graduates, including his own son. Omar reflects on the importance of fathers encouraging, comforting, and urging their children to live lives worthy of God. He shares a passage from 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12, emphasizing that fathers should help their children surpass them by fostering a close relationship with God. The message aims to inspire fathers to be a...
Jun 18, 2025•4 min
Welcome back to the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotionals. On this episode Dionne Garcia, shares a two-minute devotional on the importance of faith, drawing from Genesis 22 where Abraham's faith is tested when God commands him to sacrifice his son. She reflects on how this story demonstrates trusting in God, recalling an experience while she was incarcerated where she learned to put her faith in God rather than in people. Ultimately, she emphasizes that in challenging situations, believers shou...
Jun 11, 2025•3 min
In this episode, Omar Calvillo welcomes Gilbert Morales and Ronnie Carrasquillo to discuss the launch of their new podcast and non-profit organization, "Unshackled Building Bridges." Gilbert and Ronnie share their personal journeys through trauma, incarceration, and eventual redemption. The episode covers their vision for helping individuals and families affected by violence and incarceration, as well as their determination to highlight stories of struggle, strength, and faith. The conversation ...
Jun 09, 2025•56 min
Welcome back to the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotionals. This week our own Julio Mercado reflects on Romans 8:28, emphasizing God works all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. He highlights that this includes all life experiences, not just the good ones. Julio encourages listeners that even in difficult and uncertain times, God is actively working in their lives for their ultimate benefit and growth. He reassures that God's love and wisd...
Jun 04, 2025•2 min
In this episode of Wrong to Strong, host Omar Calvillo interviews Michael Crosby, who shares his remarkable journey from a troubled childhood marked by parental imprisonment, addiction, and personal struggles with substance abuse to a transformative relationship with Jesus Christ. Raised amidst chaos and addiction in Indiana, Michael's life spirals into drug addiction and crime until a series of divine interventions lead him to seek God. Michael's story unfolds as he embraces faith, cleans up hi...
Jun 02, 2025•1 hr 12 min
Welcome to the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotional. This week Wrong To Strong's own Cisco Terrazas leads us in a devotional emphasizing God's closeness to the brokenhearted and His power to heal past traumas. He recounts two testimonies of individuals who, despite their changed circumstances as adults, still carry emotional wounds from their youth. Cisco encourages people to recognize how God uses their current environments and people to aid in healing, drawing connections to biblical verses l...
May 28, 2025•3 min
Welcome back to the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotionals. Today Jorge shares a message from the Bible, quoting Mark 1:15 and Ezekiel 33:9, urging listeners to repent, turn away from their sins, and accept Jesus as their Savior. Jorge recounts a dream where the Lord spoke to him, emphasizing the need for repentance and to believe in Jesus' sacrifice. He concludes by affirming the urgency of his message and the importance of individual choice in accepting Jesus. Send us a text Support the show B...
May 21, 2025•3 min
In this emotional and transformative episode, Julio Mercado from New Life Community Church in Cicero shares his astonishing life story—from a tumultuous life of gang violence and near-death experiences to finding salvation through Jesus Christ. This testimonial was recorded at a "Radical Time Out" meeting which is hosted by "Koinonia House National Ministries" in Wheaton, IL. Julio's journey is a testament to the power of faith, prayer, and the unconditional love of family and community. Hear hi...
May 19, 2025•44 min
Thanks for joining in for another episode of the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotionals. This week Michael Crosby, currently a student from The Moody Bible Institute reflects on Romans 8:1, which states, "There is now therefore no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Michael shares a personal story about feeling burdened with shame and guilt when he first came to the Lord but explains how this verse and his faith have liberated him from those feelings. He emphasizes the transformatio...
May 14, 2025•2 min
Embracing Forgiveness: In this episode of the Wrong to Strong Two Minute Devotional, Jimmy Sutherland Jr. discusses the importance of forgiveness as commanded in Mark 11:25. He emphasizes that forgiveness is essential for healing our own hearts, not just for the benefit of others. Jimmy leads a heartfelt prayer asking for God's help in releasing any unforgiveness and turning our wounds into testimonies. Join us in this spiritual journey from darkness to light and from wrong to strong. Send us a ...
May 07, 2025•3 min
In this powerful episode of Wrong to Strong Chicago, host Omar Calvillo welcomes Scott Morgan to share his incredible story of transformation. Raised in the tough streets of Chicago and enduring a turbulent life filled with addiction, violence, and incarceration, Scott's journey to finding faith and redemption is nothing short of inspiring. From the traumas of childhood abuse and the struggles with substance abuse to his eventual breakthrough and spiritual awakening, Scott takes us through his l...
May 05, 2025•1 hr 51 min
Welcome to the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotionals. This week one of our very own, Cisco Terrazas shares personal reflections on Romans 12:6-8, discussing the diverse gifts and roles everyone has according to God's grace. Cisco emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing our individual contributions to God's service, despite occasional self-doubt. He encourages consistent communication with God through prayer and Bible reading to understand and appreciate His daily mercies. He conclu...
Apr 30, 2025•3 min
Join Shawn Rae & Nicole Rae in this two-minute devotional as we reflect on the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We discuss the significance of the resurrection, affirming Jesus' divinity, and its confirmation of Him as the way, the truth, and the life. Through reading Matthew 28:17-20, we are reminded of our mission to share the gospel and make disciples of all nations. This episode encourages you to fulfill this great commandment and share the good news of Jesus' resurrect...
Apr 23, 2025•4 min
From Prison to Purpose: Ben Endress' Journey to Supporting Ex-Offenders This is part 5 of a 5 part interview series highlighting the amazing work that is happening in Kewanee, Illinois, in regards to prison ministry and re-entry initiatives. In this episode of 'Wrong to Strong,' host Omar Calvillo converses with Ben Endress, a successful business owner, and Ronnie Carrasquillo about their impactful prison ministry work. Ben shares how a poignant resume from a man with seven felonies ignited his ...
Apr 21, 2025•30 min
Enduring Hardship as Soldiers of Christ | 2 Minute Devotional Join Nico in this episode of the Wrong to Strong Two Minute Devotional as he delves into 2 Timothy 2:3-4. Nico discusses the importance of enduring hardship and focusing on the kingdom of heaven as soldiers and ambassadors of Jesus Christ. Learn how to set aside self-centered concerns and live for the mission and will of our King, Jesus Christ. Send us a text Support the show Become a supporter: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2049675/supp...
Apr 16, 2025•3 min
In this powerful episode of 'Wrong to Strong Chicago,' host Omar Calvillo speaks with Paul Bosanko, who shares his incredible journey from a turbulent childhood and life of crime to finding redemption through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul's story begins with his challenging upbringing in South Chicago, marked by severe physical abuse and subsequent entanglement in gang life. After spending over three decades in prison, including 13 years in Supermax, Paul experienced a profound spiritual awakening...
Apr 14, 2025•54 min
Join Omar Calvillo in this week's episode of the Wrong to Strong 2-Minute Devotional as he explores the question from Genesis 18, 'Is anything too hard for the Lord?' Omar reflects on the story of Abraham and Sarah to highlight God's unmatched power and the essence of unwavering faith. This devotional encourages believers to trust in God's promises, no matter how impossible circumstances may seem. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and encouragement to strengthen your journey of faith. Send us a ...
Apr 09, 2025•5 min
This is part 3 of a 5 part interview series highlighting the amazing work that is happening in Kewanee, Illinois in regards to prison ministry and re-entry initiatives. Join Omar Calvillo in this compelling episode of Wrong to Strong Chicago, where he speaks with Greta (Gigi) and Ronnie about the transformative power of prison ministry in Kewanee, Illinois. Discover how volunteers from Hill Church and other local ministries help reintegrate formerly incarcerated individuals into society, providi...
Apr 07, 2025•44 min
Welcome back to the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotionals. This week Sister Lily Fonseca references Psalm 34:8, which encourages us to trust in the Lord. She shares a personal anecdote about her childhood pastor's humorous experience with Mexican food to illustrate that people don't know what they're missing until they try it. Lily relates this to David's message in Psalm 34 about experiencing and trusting in God's goodness, even during difficult times. She urges us to place our trust in God, p...
Apr 02, 2025•3 min
This is part 2 of a 5 part interview series highlighting the amazing work that is happening in Kewanee, Illinois in regards to prison ministry and re-entry initiatives. In this powerful episode of the Wrong to Strong Podcast, host Omar Calvillo is joined by special guests Fred and Chance for a heartfelt discussion on the redemptive journey from incarceration to reintegration. Fred shares his experiences growing up in Illinois, facing life challenges, and the impact of a supportive community on h...
Mar 31, 2025•50 min
Thank you for joining us for another episode of the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotionals. This week our brother Gideon Indovina from Moody Bible College reflects on 1 Peter 2:16 which urges us to live as people who are free from sin, while not abusing our freedom, but instead using it to serving God. 1 Peter reminds us that Christ has freed us from the bondage of our sins and fleshly desires. However, even though we've been liberated, we often feel chained to our past. This devotional explores...
Mar 26, 2025•3 min
This is part 1 of a 5 part interview series highlighting the amazing work that is happening in Kewanee, Illinois in regards to prison ministry and re-entry initiatives. In this series we will hear from former inmates, prison ministry volunteers and a business owner who are involved in the work which is taking place out there. In this episode, Omar is joined by Michelle Gillespie and Ronnie Carrasquillo to discuss their incredible work in helping formerly incarcerated individuals reintegrate into...
Mar 24, 2025•35 min
Welcome back to another episode of the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotionals. This week Klavs Vadonis, who has been involved in Cook County jail ministry for over a year, shares a devotional based on Matthew 21:28-32. The passage tells the story of a man with two sons who are asked to work in a vineyard. One initially refuses but then goes, while the other agrees to go but does not. Klavs explains how Jesus uses this parable to expose hypocrisy, emphasizing that true obedience to God is demonst...
Mar 19, 2025•3 min
In this special 100th episode of the 'Wrong to Strong Chicago' podcast, host Omar Calvillo celebrates the milestone along with his youngest son, Moses Omar Calvillo. Omar introduces the episode by expressing gratitude to their listeners and supporters, highlighting the show's journey and thanking past guests who have shared their stories. The episode features the very first recording ever made for the podcast, an unscripted and humorous telephone interaction between Omar, his wife, and his child...
Mar 17, 2025•28 min
Welcome back to another episode of the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotionals. This week Julio Mercado discusses Matthew 21:42, where Jesus refers to Psalms 118:22-23, emphasizing that Jesus, although rejected by the Pharisees, becomes the cornerstone of God's kingdom. Julio highlights that Peter in Acts 4:11-12 reiterates this message, affirming Jesus as the only source of salvation. The devotional underlines the consistency and divine words of the Bible, and ends with an encouragement to seek ...
Mar 13, 2025•2 min
A Call for All Men to Find and Experience Inner Healing: In this emotional and deeply moving episode, Rudy Soto shares his incredible journey from experiencing spiritual attacks, witnessing tragic events, and grappling with loneliness and broken relationships. He shares his harrowing journey from a life of substance abuse, criminal activities, and dealing with personal demons. To finding redemption and renewing his faith, finding God's presence and healing at New Life Community Church. Rudy reco...
Mar 10, 2025•3 hr 10 min
Join Aisha Mercado in this 2-Minute Devotional from Wrong To Strong as she reads Matthew 11:28-29. Aisha discusses the importance of laying our burdens at Jesus' feet and cultivating a daily, intimate relationship with Him. Learn how beginning the day with prayer can bring peace and set a positive tone. Be encouraged by Aisha's personal testimony and find inspiration to deepen your connection with Jesus. Send us a text Support the show Become a supporter: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2049675/suppo...
Mar 05, 2025•3 min
Welcome back to the "Wrong To Strong" 2-Minute Devotionals. Thank you for joining us this week as our brother Greg Wood highlights Romans 8:28, which emphasizes that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him. Greg uses the analogy of Kool-Aid, explaining that just as the drink's components (Kool-Aid mix, sugar, and water) taste better together than separately, God combines the good, the bad, and His presence in our lives to work for our benefit. He concludes by encouraging...
Feb 26, 2025•3 min
