Freedom Behind Bars

I had the privilege of being introduced to a very unique ministry yesterday. The Saints Prison Ministry takes the message of Jesus Christ to inmates across the US and Canada. Because sports are non-threatening and attractive, this is the method that they use. They have softball, volleyball, soccer and basketball teams that travel to prisons and play against prisoners. During the course of games, volunteers have an opportunity to share testimonies with those who are incarcerated.

Their belief is that we are all just one bad decision away from being locked up ourselves. They realize that, but for God's grace, we could all be in the same position. Many of us have committed the same crimes and not been caught. At the very least, we have thought of wrongdoing and simply not followed through.

I was humbled as I watched a video of the ministry in action. Many of the inmates look forward to the games are are thrilled to finally have someone that comes to see them. The Saints Prison Ministry gives them an opportunity to be free in spite of the bars surrounding them. If you would like to learn more about this awesome ministry or get involved, visit their website and see if this is a place where God could use you.

Momma Had Homework

I apologize for neglecting each of you. I promise you, you've been in my heart. I'm on a journey right now. Filled with misadventures and crazy memories. The journey I'm on is philosophical in nature. I'm a student again, and boy is it interesting. I'll let you on to a little secret: I was scared to death to go back to school. Even though I've had a career, my brain has spent much of the last ten years in mommy mode. When you see a professor who has been teaching for a long time and is used to students that use big words all the time, it can be a bit intimidating.

My first week was spent cramming 6 chapters and a paper into 48 hours. Much of that time was spent stressing and pulling out my hair. Sadly, much of it was also spent making my family wish the crazy lady was still at work! I was unable to get into my class for a couple of days, and by the time I did, I was already behind. After a small nervous breakdown, I sent up a hurried prayer and invoked the powers of my phone's Kindle app. Within seconds I had the first book Whispersynced and in my hands. So glad I'm not a technophobe right now.

Although my routine has changed drastically over the last month, I am so happy and thankful for the changes. I feel alive and relevant. I know that I am in God's perfect will. Even though the immediate future is uncertain, I'm enjoying this ride. Living each day, in the words of Jill Scott, "like it's golden".

Image by Brenda Starr