by Reca Davis, The Village Church at Holly Springs, NC 

Vacation what a wonderful thought!  Just like you I block my calendar to make sure nothing gets in the way of something this important.  I mark 3 days in September each year to spend a special time with old and new friends.  These friends are inmates from three North Carolina prisons. 

The inmates and staff from their facilities come together with Christian ladies for a three day retreat.  The theme for the retreat is Chain Reaction.  The days are filled with bible study, worship, fun activities including swimming and crafts.  It is a time for the inmates (who we call guests) to get away from the confined life they live each day and spend time with friends in Christ.

Often I am asked why do you do this.  My reply is that God has placed these women on my heart to show them the unconditional love of Jesus.  God loves each of them just as much as He loves me.

 I’ll admit that it does take me out of my comfort zone.  The first time I volunteered I did not know what to expect.  I knew no one.  All I knew is that I was where I was supposed to be there and be willing to serve.  I trusted that God would use me and indeed he did.

I have had the opportunity to build relationships and stay in contact with some of the inmates.  God has allowed me to be blessed by mentoring a lady who has since been released.  He has given me a passion for prison ministry.

By the grace of God, I am volunteering at the retreat and not a guest.  Yes, they have made mistakes but so have I.  When we ask and accept the free gift of salvation our mistakes are forgiven.  The ground is truly level at the foot of the cross and that is something to celebrate!

Go ahead and step out and take on that God-sized assignment.  He will be faithful to give you the strength to complete it.  Not only will you bless others in the process but you will receive a blessing greater that you can ever imagine.

To God be the glory!