Earlier this year, I had heard reports on the news that the population of men and women who are incarcerated in state and federal prisons throughout the United States of America is now at more than 2.2 million...
This is not counting those who are presently confined to city and county jails, or juvenile detention facilities. Moreover, with a rapidly worsening economic situation, it doesn't take a genius to figure out that, as more Americans find themselves without a job and therefore with less money to survive on, that the overall crime rates, especially for offenses like robbery and burglary, will increase. And, correspondingly, the number of prisoners will increase, as well.
Think of this as a national tragedy which will ultimately affect almost everyone. Consider, too, that many of those who are now locked up could have been a useful part of America's work force instead of being burdens to taxpayers, and to the various governmental branches (local, state, and federal) who must care for them.
As I've oftentimes discussed in my writings, jails and prisons may very well be one of America's largest mission fields. Therefore, my prayer is that more Christians would be willing to take the gospel into such places, or at least offer their support to those who do go in. The need is tremendous.
D.B.
Think of this as a national tragedy which will ultimately affect almost everyone. Consider, too, that many of those who are now locked up could have been a useful part of America's work force instead of being burdens to taxpayers, and to the various governmental branches (local, state, and federal) who must care for them.
As I've oftentimes discussed in my writings, jails and prisons may very well be one of America's largest mission fields. Therefore, my prayer is that more Christians would be willing to take the gospel into such places, or at least offer their support to those who do go in. The need is tremendous.
D.B.
