BEING OPEN TO HIS WILL

You never know where God will lead you on life’s journey, but if you’re open to His will, it can be quite a ride. I was in the pharmaceutical industry while also serving in the Army reserves for 32 years. When I was retiring from the reserves, a friend invited me to be part of a four-day event at the Kairos prison ministry. I had never been to a prison or an event like that, and I was incredibly moved. So impacted that I got involved teaching a Bible study twice a week at a correctional facility, and a few years later was asked to be on the Board of Shepherd’s Fold. This ministry serves the Lord by providing food, shelter, clothing, guidance and love to men and women seeking to change their criminal behavior following their release from prison. It is a six-month transitional ministry with a separate men’s and women’s facility. We train them to be productive citizens. We help change their thinking and teach them that real freedom comes only by believing and following Jesus Christ. We show them God has a purpose for each of their lives. I got so involved that they asked me to be the executive director. It is incredible to see how God moves here and transforms lives. We have over 100 people in our program. Nationally, the recidivism rate among former inmates is anywhere from 35% to 65%. For our graduates, it is less than 1%. I’m blessed to be part of this each day, and see God work amazing miracles.