As I stood behind the pulpit in our chapel's main room where the worship services are held, and as I gazed at the faces of an array of men of different ethnicities, ages and backgrounds, the thought came to mind, "What a friend we have in Jesus."
This is the title of a popular hymn which has been sung in churches throughout the world. But when I saw these men, many whose histories I know, I could not help but think that we are blessed to be alive.
Yes, this is prison. And being incarcerated is not easy. Prisoners suffer in many ways. There are the obvious hardships, such as being locked away from society and from one's family. And there are the lesser things a prisoner must endure, such as getting only one roll of toilet paper per week, then running short a day or two before you're eligible for another roll, or having to breathe in someone else's cigarette smoke until your throat gets sore.
Yet within this maximum security facility is a group of men - we had approximately 50 to 55 men in attendance today - many whose faces shined with joy. I could also sense the peace in their hearts.
I declare, too, that we are a privileged group because we know Christ. He has become our Friend, Brother and Savior. No one could care for us like He can. And I believe each of these men would agree with me that Jesus is all we need.
D.B.
Yes, this is prison. And being incarcerated is not easy. Prisoners suffer in many ways. There are the obvious hardships, such as being locked away from society and from one's family. And there are the lesser things a prisoner must endure, such as getting only one roll of toilet paper per week, then running short a day or two before you're eligible for another roll, or having to breathe in someone else's cigarette smoke until your throat gets sore.
Yet within this maximum security facility is a group of men - we had approximately 50 to 55 men in attendance today - many whose faces shined with joy. I could also sense the peace in their hearts.
I declare, too, that we are a privileged group because we know Christ. He has become our Friend, Brother and Savior. No one could care for us like He can. And I believe each of these men would agree with me that Jesus is all we need.
D.B.
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