I had been to a jail one other time, to visit someone, but I had never seen the inside. Yesterday Jessica and I had the honor of conducting our first service in a jail. It truly was an honor. We met the chaplain and he brought me into three different cell blocks to invite the inmates to church, while Jessica stayed in the office and prayed for us.
I didn't know what to expect inside the jail. I felt comfortable preaching because I have done lots of that but was not looking forward to visiting the inmates in their cells. That quickly changed. God's grace was present. Now I am very glad that I did go into where they live to visit them. It changed everything and made all the difference. It caused me to walk with greater reverance for their need of God. The first thing I knew when I entered their cell is that I would not want to have to be there, nor would I want anyone else to be.
Compassion for them quickly arose within me and I desired to talk with them. We invited them to the service which would take place in an hour and then I returned to be with Jessica in prayer.
Between 30 and 40 men showed up for the service. It was a wonderful time from the first moment. We shared with them our sincere desire that God's Word for them come out clearly; that the time would be fruitful in helping them where they are at.
Jessica shared an encouraging word with them. Everyone was very respectful and many were very hungry to hear from God. It was a wonderful atmosphere to preach in.
God had given me a Christmas message for them. But it was not your typical Christmas lesson. He told me 'God sent us a Lord'. Most people are glad to hear about a Savior. But those wonderful old Scriptures that we hear at Christmas time very clearly point out that this Savior is a Lord and a Governor. Everyone wants salvation, but the problem is not many people want a Lord. But that's what we needed and so that's what God sent. If you want all the benefits of the Savior, you must receive His Lordship. And the Good News of it all is that He is a Good Lord. Thank you Lord.
It was a powerful Word but it was without compromise. It was what each one needed, but it demanded commitment, truth, honor and submission. Wow. They were glad to hear the Truth.
We also talked extensively on what it is to have a Lord and Master and then how to allow Jesus to come in and transform your life from the inside out; regardless of your situation.
Wonderful time. Thank you Lord. The anointing was strong and we definately left with a desire to return and continue to pour into their lives.
Thank you to all our partners that make it possible for us to travel and reach all these different types of people; all in such need of the Word of God. We love you.
-vincent
No comments:
Post a Comment