Hope for the IncarceratedSample

Regardless of where you are right now, you have a purpose. You have a role to play in the body of Christ.

Jesus has given you a mission, and that’s to be a steward of his love wherever you are, including while incarcerated.

Think of what you know about Jesus. His mission, his ministry, his way of encountering the world and the people in it. Now think about how he would act in your situation. What are some ways Jesus would show up in the facility you currently inhabit? How would he treat the other inmates? How would he treat the corrections officers? How would he interact with those who have challenging personalities?

We read in today’s scriptures that Jesus came to earth to set captives free. To liberate those who are oppressed. To rescue the weak and the poor. What does that mean for the system under which you currently live?

Spend some time today imagining Jesus walking through your facility. To whom would he extend compassion? Whom might he call to a higher standard? Which of your fellow human beings would be on the receiving end of his grace?

You have a purpose, and that purpose is to embody Jesus wherever you are. Reflect on what that might look like… and then get to work doing it.