Scripture: Hebrews 13:1-3
Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them; those who are being tortured, as though you yourselves were being tortured.
Thought for the Day: Most people know the first half of this passage where we hear about demonstrating hospitality to the stranger, yet the second half is often ignored or glossed over. Remembering those in prison was essential for the early church since many of their own were in prison and experiencing some form of ill-treatment. Yet I do not believe the instruction to be mindful of those in prison was limited to those who were jailed for their faith. In fact, the Christian faith never provides priority or gives special concern to the faithful. In the parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin, the one searching (metaphor for God and God’s people) will do anything – even risk ‘the found’ – for the sake of the lost.
Next Saturday, Cypress Creek Christian Church will offer a training for those who are interested (or considering) in serving those who are incarcerated. The state of Texas requires this training, and for the first time, we will host it. It is free, and there is no obligation. Yet ministry with and for the sake of the prisoners is one of the important ministries set forth by Jesus. Cypress Creek Christian Church offers a wonderful program for women who are incarcerated, a program that has changed and strengthen the lives of many.
I want to invite you to consider participating in the training. It is scheduled for this Saturday, January 24. Registration will begin at 8am, with the program running from 9am – 1pm. Chaplain Thomas (a member of our church) will have all the needed paperwork, and she will be able expedite the approval process. Please call the church office (281-376-7113) so that we can have a sense of how many will be in attendance.
Prayer: O Lord, so many of your children find themselves behind bars. Some of them are there unjustly, yet many more are experiencing the consequences of their choices. Let us make sure that each of them, despite circumstance or past choices, is able to hear and experience firsthand your Good News of unconditional love. Amen.
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