I thought for this week I would share with you a poem that an inmate gave me after chapel a few years back. We’re not permitted to take anything out of prison that we didn’t walk in with so I had to copy the poem onto a page in the front of my bible. I later had it transferred onto a photo and framed. I took it to church and sold many framed copies in the front lobby. I sent a copy to prison fellowship. Many other similar organizations bought a framed copy for their offices. I contacted the chaplain at the facility that the author was transferred to and told him I opened a bank account and deposited the earnings for her for when she was released. The chaplain was excited to let her know and I was allowed to speak to her on the phone. We both cried when she realised what God had done for her. It made her feel that she mattered to God. She was amazed that God would take the little poem she had written on the bed in her jail cell and put it in the hearts of so many people. God made her feel special, something that she never felt before. This is what came from the heart of one inmate.

Forgiven

It’s a gift, which comes at a great cost.

A treasure that is given, in place of a great loss.

It is just as hard to give, as it is to receive.

But could change your life the moment you believe.

It can come at times of sorrow, when you need it the most.

It will humble your heart at times you want to boast.

It will give you hope when you’re filled with despair.

Even the deeply broken-hearted it can easily repair.

There’s no event too big or bad, that it can’t see past.

No new person deserves it more than the last.

It is not bias, it’s there for everyone just the same.

Anyone who seeks it, will find it in His name.

It’s at your door knocking, all you have to do is let it in.

Stop fighting your battles alone, it will help you to win.

You’ll find peace and joy, where once was struggle and pain.

It will be yours forever, given to you again and again.

Written by Christina T.