Today was a special day. I had the opportunity to preach in a prison. A prison specifically for refugees; a person who fleas for refuge, safety or freedom. Almost all the people staying in this prison (women and children included) had been attempting to escape from their home countries due to persecution, seeking asylum or just a better way of life. Unfortunately, they were unable to reach their goal of freedom and were now being held in this prison waiting for their claim to process, which could take years. Most of them feel completely
hopeless; as we learned today not many claims actually get passed through and most of them are forced to return to their homeland. Hopeless. Do we even know what that means? Maybe today you do. You know what it feels like to have no light shining at the end of your tunnel. If so, I pray this story encourages you and brings hope back into your heart.
As I entered the room, people from many different nations began to come in and greet me. There were so many different cultures represented in fact, that when we spoke there were people translating into Bulgarian, French and Farsi! What an incredible experience to witness! There was a Muslim family there from Pakistan, they said they wanted to come and hear what this gospel was all about. How exciting!
The ministry we were working with comes every single week to ministry to these people. They began just six weeks ago with one person. Today there were over 40 people coming to hear the good news. People desperate for a glimpse of hope. People longing to be free. People searching for meaning and fulfillment to their lives.
They asked Kevin and myself to speak. What do you say to this kind of crowd? Well, we all know that Jesus is the best news anyone could hear, under even the most difficult of circumstances. I turned to Colossians 3 and began to read about the realities of heaven. Often in my life when I am down or discouraged, I try to stop and focus on heaven. Just picturing myself with Him brings a smile to my face and though my circumstances don't instantly change, my spirit is lifted.
As I began to share about this glorious after life we have in store for us, I could feel the hope in my own heart growing larger and larger. I can only pray that the crowd felt the same. My favorite portion was
"And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in His glory."
What a beautiful picture, we will get to share in His unfathomable splendor.
After Kevin and I preached, we had the honor of worshiping with them. Several of the African men led the songs. I love to hear Africans praise God, they worship with such great passion and their whole hearts. I stood there with my hands raised nearly in tears at the moment I was in. What an honor to be able to be His light to these people and to be part of this incredible ministry to these broken people.
Tonight when you lay your head on your pillow, thank God for your freedom. Thank God you aren't sleeping in a prison cell and the only crime committed was desiring a greater life for you and your family. Before you close your eyes, thank Him for the hope He died to give you. Reflect on His goodness and majesty. Most importantly, envision yourself hand-in-hand with Him in glory. If you do this, I can promise you will feel His HOPE tonight.
