Just recently Prison Fellowship received a sizable gift from a young man, not yet 30, who is enrolled in one of our intensive, faith-based reentry programs behind prison walls.
I am always encouraged when a man or woman behind bars gives back in this way. When I looked deeper into his story, I learned that, tragically, his mother had passed away before he could get out and rejoin her. When he received his inheritance, he decided to use some of that money – which he could surely have justified saving for himself – to give back to Prison Fellowship.® He was so grateful to God for the total transformation of his life that he wanted others to experience the same joy.
This young man’s faithful stewardship of his inheritance reminds me of the countless riches of grace, mercy, love, and hope all God’s children stand to receive from Him.
You and I have become the recipients of an inheritance surpassing any treasure on earth: a saving, restoring relationship with the Creator of the universe. How are we using that inheritance? Are we pouring out gifts that God has poured into us? Or are we only recipients?
There’s nothing wrong with soaking in the Father’s blessings – we need steady infusions of His love in order to thrive. But we aren’t intended to receive without also giving. We are stewards of our inheritance, meant to use it to glorify God and advance His Kingdom.
If, like this young man behind bars, you feel compelled to give back to others what God has poured into you, we’d love to partner with you. Learn how at www.prisonfellowship.org.