Winter

O God, thou art my God;
early will I seek thee... 
Psalm 63:1a

At 10 o'clock this morning I went outdoors for my ninety minute recreation period. The temperature, however, was about 25 degrees, but an ice cold wind blew continuously making it feel much colder..

Yet because the weather was so brutal, there were not more than fifteen men scattered throughout the yard. Thus I was able to enjoy my circular walk in quiet and solitude.

Wisely I was wearing my winter gear which included a wool scarf, a knit cap, and a pair of thermal gloves. In addition I carried my pocket-sized Gideon New Testament with me. This little book also has the Psalms and Proverbs in it.

Since it was very cold I had to walk as much as possible. But I did make a few stops choosing to sit on an isolated picnic table at the far end of the yard. Here I would take the little Bible out of my carrying bag and I would read and reflect on a particular Psalm. For some reason Psalm 63 and 91 were the ones that I believe the Lord directed me to. The words came from the pen of King David and they caused my heart to stir. I could almost sense the Lord Jesus sitting right next to me, just the two of us having a private time of fellowship on a windswept piece of frozen ground.

Then, at approximately 11:30, when it was time to return to my cell block with its endless noise, cigarette smoke and commotion, I went into my cell and I immediately put on water for a cup of hot tea. Because God lives in my heart, no matter what's going on around me, I'll be fine.

D.B.