Clang went the big metal door as it shut behind us. We had just entered the inmate visiting section of a local jail, and our eyes locked with the man we had come to see. For years we have been praying, “Whatever it takes Lord,” to win Joe for Christ. I wondered if a prison sentence would be what it takes.
Joe’s eyes were clear, and he actually looked peaceful in his bright orange prison clothes. He said he was reading the Bible and Steps to Christ we sent him. Please, Lord, melt Joe’s heart so he falls in love with You I silently pleaded. During our brief visit, we spoke of God, encouraged him with scripture promises and prayed together. Before we parted, Joe pressed his shackled hands against the glass separating us, and as I put mine on the opposite side, he thanked us for coming to visit. I marveled at the sweet smile on his face as he shuffled away in leg irons.
Afterwards, I realized that when I thought of Joe’s alleged crime, my whole being cried out for judgment and a prison term. However, when I thought of Joe, I overwhelmingly desired that he would find leniency and mercy. How could I reconcile these two feelings?
The Holy Spirit has convicted me deeply over this issue. I, too, suffer the consequences of my actions. I, too, am a criminal and deserve death. However, my heavenly Father looks beyond my sin and sees me. His heart overflows with pure love. He offers me abundant mercy and pardon through the glorious sacrifice of Jesus! How can I not extend the same promises of forgiveness to another? After all, there but for the grace of God, go I.
Please pray that God’s love, through us, will reach the world’s shackled sinners.

• Twitter