1 Peter 4:7 (NIV)
The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of
sober mind so that you may pray.
Charles Colson visited the Humanita Prison in Sao Jose
dos Campos Brazil during the 1980’s and was astonished how Christ changed
inmates lives.
He wrote: “When I visited Humanita I found the inmates
smiling—particularly the murderer who held the keys, opened the gates, and let
me in. Wherever I walked I saw men at peace. I saw clean living areas, people
working industriously. The walls were decorated with biblical sayings from
Psalms and Proverbs. Humanita has an astonishing record. Its recidivism rate is
4 percent compared to 75 percent in the rest of Brazil and the United States.
How is all this possible?”
He saw the answer when his guide escorted him to the
notorious punishment cell once used for torture. “Today,” the guide explained,
“the block houses only a single inmate.” They walked to the end of a long
concrete corridor. The guide put the key in the lock. But before he opened the
lock, he turned to Colson. “Are you sure you want to go in?”
“Of course,” Colson answered, “I’ve been in isolation
cells all over the world.” The guide opened the lock. Slowly he swung open the
massive door, and there they could see the prisoner in the punishment cell: It
was a crucifix, beautifully carved by the Humanita inmates.
When we are reminded of Christ’s finished work on the
Cross, we can be self-controlled in all things.
Dear Lord, thank You that You paid for our sins. Help us live a self-controlled life that is
pleasing to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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