Battles Fought...  (2004-09-25)

The exchange was furious, and the cry was loud. My ears ringed from the echo within the small masonry gym. It was the inmates celebrating a point well earned after a long fought volley. Against a much stronger, battle harden opponents, I saw the sweats forming off the faces of our elite volleyball team struggling to maintain serve.

We were a team assembled of bodies, hearts & souls. The souls were provided by Baptize Church’s elite sport ministry team. My most graceful thanks to their heart, talents, and putting their bodies in harm’s way to reach the inmates incarcerated.

Speaking to one of the inmates, she confessed that she really appreciated our efforts, it brought joys to those people who are without family imprisoned in this institute.  What was not said was those who are hurting, missing their loved one and family dearly. I prayed, but only managed to utter to her "God will make a way."  Something I heard, but with uncertain faith due to the obstacle it faces. Later did I learn that she made it to our Sunday worship at Faith Devotional Church (FDC).

Perhaps a seed was planted? Perhaps the sweats shed a glimmer of hope? A hope that these ladies will see that the battle has already been fought, with blood, and sacrifices made.  But victory is already theirs, if only they would believe.

(My most sincere thanks to all our participants for making this outreach a possibility. But also to those who couldn’t because of battle of different kind).

/stephen