  |
|
|
|
"BEHIND THE BARS" SERIES: AN INTERVIEW WITH DR. PATRICIA HERMAN (PART II)
Suite 101: Most people might think that you're nuts risking your life - like you are going to meet convicted drug pushers, murderers, theives, etc. They honestly don't trust them - and, by fiat, anyone associated with them. What is the response you would give to them about the risks and dangers involved in working with convicted felons? Herman: I wouldn't trust them either. What makes the difference is their relationship with and walk with our Lord. Once in prison, a man or woman may realize their life was out of control and, given the opportunity, may choose to turn their life over to our Lord by asking Him to forgive them and to come into their heart - that is, salvation. Prisoners who do so and then choose to attend on a regular basis Bible studies and other opportunities to grow in their walk can be trusted. They are our brother or our sister. Christians aren't perfect; all of us goof even when we're walking with our Lord - but there's mercy and forgiveness. Christians called to work with prisoners and ex-prisoners depend on the power and insights provided by our Lord through prayer and Bible study. Matthew 10 illustrates this. If He sends us, He will guide us. Even with prayer and BIble study, there is a risk that you will be taken. Many prisoners and ex-prisoners have developed a life of crime over a number of years and for some it takes time to clean that junk out of their lives. What if you discern you're being conned? Pray about it and if you feel led, go ahead. It's OK to be taken and quite a testimony of brotherly love when they know you knew and continued to walk with them anyway. If you feel led not to, don't!! Suite 101: What is your motivation in regards to working with this particular group of people? What rewards, joy, satisfaction, pain, heartache, aggrevation (& anything else you can think of) do you get and receive out of doing what you do? Herman: Rewards and joys: Seeing my Lord using me to give one of His created beings (i.e., prisoners and their families, victims, etc) joy, hope, encouragement, insight. Pains: When one returns to prison. This does not mean the man or woman was not a Christian; but, again, we all goof. The prisoner may not have turned over his whole life to our Lord and it's that part that got him or her back - who knows why but our Lord. Mercy...God is a God of mercy. "If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways [Note; This verse was not written to prisoners.], then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14) |
|
|
|
