Cookies For Christ 2/2

On the last day of this prison ministry weekend, I attended the closing at Central Prison. I listened as an older inmate said he had always thought it was ok to “just let the devil ride. The problem was every time he let him ride, the devil ended up driving.” Another told how he came for the good “outside food." (Everything is brought in homemade.) He said, “I came here to be physically fed but I was spiritually fed.” Not once did I hear bitterness for being in prison. Hebrews 13: 3, Don’t forget about those in prison as though you were in prison with them.” These men do not have to be brought to our churches, they have to be brought to Jesus!

Cookies are distributed to every resident and staff member during the three day weekend. The homemade cookies are a tangible and vital expression of Christ’s love and witness from the outside Christian community. These cookies tell the residents that someone who does not know them still cares enough to give of their time to bake the cookies - without wanting something in return. Such selflessness is often a unique experience for them. They are given two bags - one to keep and one to give to someone who has wronged them. This is a big deal! Homemade cookies are at a maximum price and peace is priceless! This brief experience of sharing something of value freely has a powerful effect.

While trying to get volunteers to make cookies, I heard some say no because they are in prison for doing something bad. Maybe. But to God sin is sin. It is us humans who quantify sin. We are all sinners. Thankfully, Jesus’ blood covers it all. Luke 15: 7, “Heaven will be happier over one lost sinner who returns to God than over ninety-nine others who haven’t strayed away!" I would rather know a heart has been changed so they want to live a better life. That helps the community! I am a witness to Jesus is alive and well in prisons - there is no where He want go to save His people! And chocolate chip cookies have never meant the same!