Doing All Day

A question that inmates often ask each other is, "How much time do you have?" People with a life sentence respond with the phrase, "All day." It is a reality which some of us have to cope with continually. We may remain in custody until our lights fade from this planet. Death may find us in prison.

No one can ever fully adjust to such a stark outlook. However, a few find solace in the knowledge that they have changed and now serve a higher purpose. When the end comes, they will look back and see that the choices they made before incarceration are now foreign to them. Their lives speak of the transformation available to all. These repentant men and women can look forward to an eternity free of pain and suffering. Each of them serves their Lord in the dark places called prison.

The earthly prizes for Christian inmates are limited, yet the rewards waiting in heaven will bless them forever. They make hard decisions daily. Sinful distractions from boredom and pain are readily available. Still, the brothers and sisters in Christ set them apart. The promises written in the Holy Scriptures encourages their walks. Each believer must focus their gaze on the One from above to trudge through the filth around them.

Has God transformed your life? What are your eyes and thoughts focused on? Will you face your final days with hope and joy towards what is to come?
Will you be bitter at the lost glories of this earth? I pray you will look to Jesus for your deliverance. He redeems the lives of those who trust in Him. His sacrifice paid for all the sins of those who repent and turn to Him.

In conclusion, may I suggest that you pick up a Bible and read the Gospel of John and the book of Romans? If you are lost and searching for meaning in life or just want peace, God provided for both over 2,000 years ago. The details are in His Word. May the Scriptures speak to your heart and bring you into God's family or remind you of whom you are in Christ. For everybody is doing "all day" on earth. True freedom comes from God and from the knowledge that one is a citizen of heaven. Let go of what draws you away from God and turn to Jesus for the grace and mercy that transforms lives. Eternity is here; how will you face it?

Patrick Rathsack T-45624
PO Box 92
Chowchilla, CA 93610-0092