I have the privilege of pastoring a church that often allows me to see God at work in and through people.  I was reminded of this once again last night.

Our church has a fantastic women’s ministry and prison ministry in large part to the faithfulness, passion, and gifting of the woman in charge.  She would be upset at that statement and want the honor to go to God.  She would probably blush and quote 1 Thessalonians 5:24 ( “The One who calls is faithful and he will do it”).  I agree with 1 Thessalonians 5:24 but I stand by the statement.

I play no role in our prison ministry.  None.  Each Sunday afternoon a group of women jump in the church van to lead a Bible study in a faith dorm of a prison about 30 minutes away.  I’m proud of those women and their fearless leader. Last night I was presented with, for a lack of a better term, prison art.

It’s a true work of art that includes numerous little notes of encouragement.  Now for a game:  Guess how this masterpiece was made.  Seriously.  Guess.

Did you guess “deodorant and ink from a magazine”? Winner, winner, chicken dinner.

Did you guess “deodorant and ink from a magazine”?  Winner, winner, chicken dinner.

Don’t ask me how that’s possible – but that’s the gospel truth.  This gem now sits in my office and is a great reminder of God’s love, care, and provision.

Upon further reflection, I’m left in a spirit of thanksgiving:

• I’m thankful for the women of my church that selflessly give of their time and energy to show love to women in prison.

• I’m thankful for a vibrant and effective prison ministry that does not have any of my fingers on it at all.

• I’m thankful for redemption.  It is available to me, you, and the women in white.

• I’m thank for encouragement on the days I need it most.