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... 

Knock, knock

A day of visiting people pastorally gave me a couple of opportunities for generosity... Of time and of space particularly. Waiting for the visited to fill the space instead of me leaping in and sharing opinion. While becoming more aware of others I became aware of myself. How often I open my mouth without really there being a need for me to.

I think of the story of Jesus and the woman caught in adultery when he stopped and drew in the sand, or the occasion when he asked the blind beggar 'what do you want me to do for you?' Jesus allowed others to fill the space and then in his own way, because he was there initially used the space in order to bring about healing and wholeness.

When I knock on someone else's door there is an opportunity for generosity on so many levels. When I pick up the phone it's the same. It's about making a personal connection.

Generosity and extravagance have got much more to do with quality of every day living than they have with possessions or gifts - much as it is very nice to be able to bestow these on others - they are about reinforcing the positives in ones life and creating enough space for Christ to fill.

There is an act of extravagance to come - but it's not to shout about!