More Than A Bible Study

by Babbie Mason

This week I was privileged to pay another visit to the women's division at the county jail in our area. My friend, Ruth and I always go together on these visits, where, for an hour or so, we lead the women in worship and share some insights from God's Word. We visit this jail on a regular basis so we know the inmates wear orange jumpsuits. To deliver the message that we are on common  ground and that the ground is level at the foot of the cross, Ruth and I wear orange too.

I shared from the theme of my book and Bible study. In Embraced By God, we celebrate the truth that God loves us as if we were the only one to love. In John 17:23, Jesus prays these words “I am in them and you are in me.  May they be made completely one so that the world may know that you sent me and that you love them just as much as you love me.”

As I talked about the meaning of this passage and the depth of God’s love for us through His Son, Jesus, you could see the light of truth usher rays of hope right into the small, windowless meeting room. You could hear spiritual shackles fall as women from all walks of life grasped the power of God’s love like a lifeline, some for the very first time. At the close of our meeting, I took a quick poll. Going around the room, I asked each woman to mention a word or phrase that she could remember as she went back to her cell. “I’m free.”  “Peace.” “I don’t have to worry about my children.” “God has my back.” “Jesus not only loves the world – He loves me.” “My time in here is not wasted.” “I’m forgiven.”

I don’t know who is blessed more by these visits – them or me. One thing is certain. There are always plenty of blessings to go around.