For the first time on the race I was take with my team to minister at the jails. Pan y Chocolate ministry goes and preaches to them and gives them food. I was a bit hesitant. Hardened Criminals and little ‘ole me.
We walked in and saw four cells. Jonathan and I headed over to the last cell with all the gang members. It was next to the women cell and through out the night it was so encouraging to see Tracy, Andrea, and Carin sharing to them.
The last cell had a volunteer from the church preaching to the cell mates. A lot of the volunteers yell so they can be heard over the others. It’s an overwhelming sensory experience. The smell that hits you as you walk in, the yells and all the people.
All the men were in their boxers, it’s really hot inside. They had tattoos all over them and their cell was tagged. Some were very young around 18/19 and some were old around 45. All awaiting the chance to be released or transferred to a more permanent establishment. Jonathan shared about his life and how it was not fulfilling before. I shared about my dad and how God saved him. They didn’t say much other than asking a few questions.
The next time we went, we were able to talk to them more. Ask them questions and they asked us a lot more. They were interested and excited to see us. It warmed my heart. They gave Jonathan and I some bracelets to take home made of plastic bags. One guy gave Jon a drawing he had done on cardboard. I felt very accepted by them and free to question them about their walk with Jesus.
They know. They understand. They are searching for the Almighty. When we asked, politely, why they hadn’t decided to have Jesus one answered that some had made pacts with God and were waiting on him. I cant judge sincerity, but the fact that they calling out to God is a step in the right direction and was encouraging for me.
We left our last night with much laughter and teasing. Jon and I gave them our emails and sincerely hope they have the chance to correspond, even if that takes a long time. Jesus loves them all and I want to too.
