A memorable experience from my years doing jail ministry:
When it comes to incarcerated adults, I believe women should mentor women and men should mentor men. One day that changed for me. The chaplain was short of male facilitators and needed me in the men’s unit.
I told him I’d be uncomfortable and would rather not. He explained the deputies would be right outside and would keep an eye on me through the window in the door. As long as I sit next to the red emergency button on the wall, I should have no problem.
Breathing a prayer, I fearfully entered the tiny room where 18 men were already seated. I took the only chair available, in the back of the room. Once seated I noticed the red emergency button was on the opposite side of the room!
Rather than panic, I decided to act tough and fearless. I lowered my voice and tried to speak with authority. I asked a few questions and as they responded I studied their faces. Why, they were simply needy men who were seeking God!
It was going well until one man became angry and wanted to argue! The other men were ready to pounce on him to protect me. I felt safe and grateful. Sure enough, the deputies were watching. Within seconds the door opened and two deputies physically removed the troublemaker. The rest of our time was sweet and precious.
That was the first of many opportunities to minister to men who simply wanted to know God’s love and forgiveness. Once they were willing to turn from their sin and surrender their lives to Jesus, they would experience peace and joy. As I continued to meet with them for weeks—and some for months, I could see the transformation was lasting. What a privilege!
- The Lord stands at your right hand to protect you. Psalm 110:5a NLT
- This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:3-4
Addendum: Our local jail rules have since changed: Men may only mentor men. Women may only mentor women. This is good!
- SONG: ONE BUSINESS IN LIFE – by Kathleen
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[This life is temporary. This life is short. When this life is over, our bodies will die and become empty shells, but our souls will continue to live forever. Where will the “real you” live? Will you live for all eternity separated from God? Or will you spend eternity in the presence of God in heaven? Learn more so you can make your most important decision: http://www.godlife.com/gospel/ and http://www.godlife.com/en/about-christianity
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Wow! You are so brave! I am sure that these men saw Jesus through your boldness and compassion!
Thank you Linda, but I didn’t think of myself as brave. It was more about trusting God each step of the way. Do I think those men saw Jesus in me? That is always my prayer.
When we are where God wants us to be, we can always rely on His protection, as detailed in Psalm 91. The key is obeying when God says NOT to go somewhere.
I agree, Matthew. The safest place to be is in God’s will. Conversely, the most dangerous place to be is out of His will.
This subject is close to my heart…I have an incarcerated loved one and it has opened a door for me to see exactly what you have said…these men need hope and to know that Jesus loves them…something most of them never knew and some need the reminder. It is a whole world of ministry in there and Jesus said when we visit them we visit Him. ♥
You are so right! Our prisons ARE a whole world of ministry. Precious souls waiting for someone to open up God’s truth. God bless you Dixie!