We were invited to participate in the annual Cultural Week program at a state penitentiary where there are about 2,000 male and 200 female inmates. Members of three Family International communities in Cuernavaca performed songs and a drama portraying a message of God’s love. The inmates so enjoyed our performance that they didn’t want us to leave.
One of our goals on our second visit—this time to the women’s section—was to give each inmate some reading material that she could take back to her cell as a source of comfort and encouragement. We presented this idea to some of our friends, and they generously sponsored copies of the motivational booklet Obstacles Are for Overcoming and Freedom Within, a booklet of messages from Jesus specifically for those behind bars. We also gave each inmate some clothing and a “Footprints in the Sand” wall calendar. The best gift they received that day, however, was the assurance of God’s love, forgiveness, and salvation. All the inmates, as well as the director and some of the security guards, eagerly prayed with us to invite Jesus into their hearts and lives.
Originally Published in 2007