Isaiah 49:1-7
Psalm 40:1-12
1 Corinthians 1:1-9
John 1:29-4
The words of the prophet Isaiah contain four “servant” songs, and today we read from the second one. Each of these songs assumes the guise of The Servant of God, and praise God for all that has been, is being, and will be done. But who is the servant? Continue reading
“From Magic to Miracle”
by Marcos R
Silent night… Holy night… All is calm… All is bright is crooning out of my old school General Electric Superadio II (1970’s model boom box) while bright flashing images of holiday commercials, Christmas movies and Charlie Brown specials splash across the bed sheets and bland narrow cell walls through my 2008 model RCA digital bubble TV screen. I channel surf while sitting on my top bunk, lost in my thoughts, missing my sons… Continue reading
“Prison Yuletide”
Warden humbugged the doors up tight
Hot chocolate, hugs, and mistletoe stay out!
No cheer or candy canes breathe here.
No winter, festive, or wonderland fit between the bars.
No colors, twinkles, scents sneak beneath the fence,
even gifts exchanged violate basic rules.
Trees, angels, stars, it matters not,
season’s spirits and symbols need not apply,
But one subdued, shackled service can we see.
Yuletide trimmings, holiday tidings
must be checked at the door.
If Stalin and the Grinch procreated,
that’d be the Christmas mascot here.
Claiming “security,” they scrooge us every year. Continue reading
This year I have decided to spend my Christmas with Christ. That is the beginning of what Christmas means to me. See, a little baby was born to die for my sins, so why should I walk around moping because I am not home with my family? God is with me wherever I am, so He is with me right here in prison. He wants me to share the Word with others and that’s what I have been doing. I have given so many presents to others in the Name Of Jesus and just spreading Christmas cheer, I haven’t noticed that Christmas is here already. God has given me so much joy this season, and it’s all because I focused on the Christ in “Christ-mas.” Thank you Lord for all you do and if you don’t do nothing else I’m still grateful. I hope that I have the right attitude, because your attitude directs your actions and your actions show your beliefs and your beliefs reflect your circumstances. I want everything to reflect the one I serve, and that’s Christ Jesus. Merry Christmas and Happy New Years!
Circumstances beyond our control delayed the publication of several more contributions for Christmas. Fortunately, December 25th is only the first day of Christmas! There are twelve days of Christmas, so there’s still time! In the next two days look for a a few more reflections of “Christmas in Prison” and a poem or two.
Acts 10:34-43
Peter preached that “God shows no favoritism”. We certainly serve an inclusive God. “Come all those who are tired and heavy laden” seems to be what we all want to hear in this busy world.
I live in a very sheltered world and at times I feel insignificant. I also live in a world of loneliness and deep regret. Could God actually care or even use me still? His word assures me He does and it’s funny how the least of us can actually be used by God.
by AMN
Donatello, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Leonardo
The Almighty has them faded.
Look around you, none of his work is dated. Continue reading
by Hugh Brown
“The Announcement”
Luke 2:(1-7),8-20
“He’s here!”, announced the angel of the Lord. This great proclamation made to a unique and unsuspecting audience. Shepherds. The true embodiment of the Savior of the world.
David, a shepherd before he was king, wrote in Psalm 23,
“The Lord is my shepherd…” Continue reading
“Jesus’ Birth”
Holy child of virgin birth,
born to bring salvation to this earth.
Down from heaven you did come,
so that your Father’s will is done.
Not to bring peace, but the sword,
to separate your own from the horde.
Capstone of God’s glorious plan,
to bring redemption for every man.
Lying in a manger with your star overhead,
destined to die and be raised from the dead.
To fulfill the promise you’ll be hung on a tree,
becoming a curse to set men free.
“My Most Memorable Christmas in Prison” by CM
The holidays in general, and Christmas in particular, take on special meaning for those of us in prison for a variety of reasons. For the most part, guys are looking forward to receiving a decent mean of turkey and/or ham. Prison staff typically adopts a slightly less confrontational stance and well-meaning volunteers often come in for special events like concerts from church choirs. For some, this season will mark the one time of the year they’ll receive a visit, perhaps some mail; and for others, it’s a time that reminds them just how alone they are because these visits don’t come.
Prison Lectionary 