I was in prison...

One of the things that I disliked about being a minister in a local church was occasionally visiting prison. Maybe someon had requested a visit from a Salvation Army Officer, or the chaplain felt I was the right person. I never enjoyed it - or felt fulfilled by the experience. Many pastors love this aspect of ministry - I am very blessed by them for I cannot bear it.

The one moment of light relief was when I went as part of a music group to visit Swansea Prison for a Carol Service shortly after moving from Cardiff. As the inmates were led into the meeting room where we were already sitting a ripple ran through a particular area of the gathered group. One of them stood up and waved shouting 'hiya Russ' then three or four others did the same! To Prison Officers were bemused as I waved back and sheepishly said something like 'good to see you again'. These were all partners or relatives of people we had ministered with in Cardiff as we ran a Prisoners Families Support group at our Salvation Army church. 

These people were human just like me they hurt like me and the have joys just like me - it's just that they have done something that is against the law and they are paying the price. their families pay a price as well.

Today's task requires that I at least pray for prisoners or victims of domestic Violence - 0ften prisoners in their own homes. Or that it write to someone in this position, or that I keep writing.

I'll try - I don't think it will be easy... 

Hey, Mr Postman!

I keep telling myself I will write letters - beautifully scripted messages of ink on quality paper to people who have meant much to me over the years, people who we send Christmas cards to but with whom that is our only contact. People that the most I see of is a thumbnail image and a status update. Today I have been prompted from my intention into action.

To write letters.

Not only to those who I have known and loved but also to those I do not know, the faceless people of my life, those that live three and four doors away, three or four streets away, or three or four cities away. People with whom I will have no other contact but may need to know that they are loved that they are more than an online inbox.

I imagine that after an initial flurry of activity this may be one of those things that gradually peters off - but if just a handful of people are encouraged it will be worth it.

I think this may be possibly the most challenging task yet - and I will never know the outcome.

Thanks #40acts for keeping the pressure on.