Recently I visited ministries in Denver, Colorado, that care for the homeless. That city is struggling with the surging population of chronically homeless. It’s gotten so bad that the local government has had to outlaw camping within the city limits.
Why was the CEO of Prison Fellowship Ministries visiting homeless shelters in Denver?
I was asking questions. Those who serve Denver’s indigent population estimate that over 50 percent of those who come through their doors are ex-offenders. I was asking them how we can better prepare those leaving prison and jail to be independent, contributing members of the community, as God intends them to be.
The way we as a society have been attempting to create safe neighborhoods is not working.
We have been asking: How do we keep “bad” people out of our own backyards?
I believe that is the wrong question. We must begin to ask – and ask relentlessly – How do we bring good people home? How do we, through the power of Jesus, see people coming back to their families, communities, and our neighborhoods prepared to be the salt and light of the world? That kind of total transformation of hearts and minds can only come through the power of the Gospel applied to every square inch of life!
It’s time to start asking the right questions. It’s time bring home better neighbors – not build higher fences. I invite you to join Prison Fellowship in this important fight for the future our communities. Learn more about how you can get involved with Prison Fellowship, Angel Tree, or Justice Fellowship.