Not Guilty In God’s Eyes

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. — Romans 8:1 (NIV)

I interviewed this man as part of my work in writing a newsletter for the Allen County (IN) Jail Chaplaincy. I’ve been blessed to be a part of this ministry for 10 years. The chaplains are so dedicated to their work, it’s a pleasure working with them.

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Growing up was a test in survival for Lonnie. Nine children in a single-parent home meant he was often hungry, so Lonnie stole food. A succession of crimes throughout his teenage and adult years culminated with Lonnie being incarcerated. At the County Farm an inmate introduced Lonnie to the Muslim religion. Lonnie studied it diligently, concluding it was the answer to his questions about life.

Then a chaplain gave Lonnie a Bible. Although it wasn’t part of the Muslim religion, Lonnie read it. For the first time in his life, he understood who Jesus Christ was. A few days later Lonnie accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and gave his life to Him.

Lonnie knew a lot of things in his past had been wrong in God’s eyes. He didn’t let guilt keep him from seeking and serving God. “I have asked for forgiveness,” he said, while living inside prison walls. “With God’s help, I’ll keep going.”

Satan would love nothing more than for us to stop serving God because of mistakes from our past. God has set us free from our past! We can celebrate our future with Him!

God, when our past threatens to overcome us, give us the wisdom and faith to know You still want us for your service.

The End