It’s been the completion of one long day of Texas driving to get here. 750 miles, 12 hours behind the wheel, and many quiet hours of contemplation.
We have driven from Washington, through Oregon, Idaho, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico. Then Texas. Over 2,300 miles, over 104 gallons of gas, 4 hotel nights, numerous cups of coffee, bottles of water and a couple of really good meals.
Still. We pray we never have to do it again.
Why? Even though I had a cousin who was a warden here back in the ’70s, and my grandparents lived just down the road, and we used to come in October for the Texas Prison Rodeo… I’ve never been here for this. It’s a new experience.
I’ve ministered in prisons in Alaska back in the ‘80s. Every week for over 3 years. But never in Texas. As part of a Crime Stopper fundraiser, I spent the night in a prison near here… my only jailed experience!
Think About It
We read of Jesus, Peter, John, and Paul – they all had experience with the insides of jails and prisons. Paul and John both wrote from prison! Their ministry was outward, as well as inward.
Paul and Silas experienced the conversion of the jailer and his entire household (Acts 16). Peter experienced a miraculous release in the midnight hour (Acts 12). The local church was praying! John faced exile on Patmos… Revelations!
But then I consider, there are more bound by sin than the thousands incarcerated behind bars and walls. The church has a ministry… here, there, and right where you are. Communicators. Light bearers. Compassions. Soul focus. Supporters.
Are you up to it? That’s our role. Every last one of us! So. Get busy!
Side Note
There is a group of guys here in the Family Waiting Area. Their ministry is to connect the family to the incarcerated… Prayer, instructions, any help possible.
The inmates have been up and processing since 2:15 am. They are ready to leave and never go back.
I hear them talking. There is one inmate who is exiting after 35 years. Who is here for him?
What will help them with this lofty goal? Who will help them? Us? You? Me? Who will help him….?