Pressing Onward

I press toward the mark for the prize
of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 
Philippians 3:14 

I don't know how it was for my fellow Christians, but for me 2008 was a difficult and spiritually challenging year...

I went through an unusual amount of inner anguish and deep trials that cannot be put into words. There are some big disappointments as well. Yet there were many spiritual victories, too. My testimony traveled into new places, even to distant lands. I also had many opportunities to help and encourage other believers, both inside and outside of prison.

While, in 2008, several dear friends left the facility on transfers to other prisons, or they were released on parole, new men have joined the church after arriving from other lockups.

But now the year is almost over. A new year is about to arrive. Yet I want to continue to serve the Lord in His strength. I'm looking forward to new challenges and new opportunities to be a help to others. And I want to become more like my Savior in love, kindness, mercy and compassion.

So may the Lord help me to press toward the prize. I'm headed to heaven. This is my home. And it's only a matter of time before I'll be gone from this earth, forever.

D.B.