From a letter written November 25, 2012:
I have questions concerning the posting of devotionals. Do the people visiting the website, those who are reading the devotionals, understand that these are the writing of inmates? That these writers are men who have experienced a life-changing touch of grace and are therefore in a position to offer a words of encouragement? You might even give a brief biological sketch of each writer. At any rate, the guest authors should be shown to be people who’ve been to the bottom of the pit and have had a rope thrown to them. Thus, they can add experience to the message of hope.
Perhaps, knowing this, the readers would be willing to donate – I suggest asking everyone that visits the website to send a $1 donation.
I see the greatest needs for prisoners to be: first to know the love of God by experience and example; second, discipleship training; and thirdly an opportunity to participate in the Body of Christ. An “effective” ministry would be one that meets these needs. However, the mind of most ministries is that the prisoners need evangelizing and a Bible. A missing aspect is the counseling that can only come from personal involvement with mature Christians. Perhaps an appeal could be made to local churches for volunteers (Sunday school teachers, deacons, pastors) to be added to the visitation lists of inmates with no one to come visit them. The inmate would fill out an application, with a section for comments to be completed by his chaplain. This application would then be submitted to the local church for possible visitors.
Give these thoughts consideration and prayer. The Lord is the One that opens and closes doors. May He so bless us in His Goodness that we are constantly stirred to praise Him.
Grace and peace to you, Prayer Warrior #5
