THE HEBREWS 13:3 TOUR REPORT

Remember prisoners as if you were in prison with them,

and people who are mistreated as if you were in their place.

Hebrews 13:3

To be who God meant you to be, in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else, is the greatest accomplishment. It can be the starting point for the next leap forward.

The long-anticipated Hebrews 13:3 Tour took place last week and what an experience it was! Our goal was to set up multiple prison presentations, meeting with men, and exploring how God defines manhood. There is a discipleship crisis across America, and what better way to address the need than meeting with those who may have destroyed their own lives – as well as many others. It was an open invitation for spiritual growth within grace and biblical truth.

“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.

Let all you do be done in love.”

1 Corinthians 16:13-14

The Lord graciously led us to 10 days, 1400 miles, five prisons and interactions with over 450 men. There were dozens who requested prayer for their own spiritual health, their friends inside prison, and especially loved ones on the outside.

Our good friend Daniel Clubb came from Tennessee (with wife Valerie) spoke from his book, Every Man Jack using a specific chapter to emphasize the various stages of manhood and how to compare the world’s definition and God’s original instructions. An insightful view looked like this;

THE WORLDLY VIEW OF MANHOOD

   M – Macho

A – Angry

   N – Not available

BIBLICAL VIEW OF MANHOOD

M – Moral

                    A – Aggressive for God

    N – Nurturing

Another important element of the tour included our wonderful friends Mark and Angie Brown, Brown Family Ministries (N. Carolina) who provided music. The worship experience included familiar tunes, old hymns, and new music to share with the men.  The enthusiasm was amazing with everyone on their feet clapping and enjoying the experience. Towards the closing, Mark changed gears and got a little wild with a bit of Johnny Cash(ish) and soft rock. The crowd was especially animated.

Daniel ended most sessions with an example of how to pray blessings on your family members. The simple concept is worth remembering.

B – Bodily health & physical protection

L –  Labor and employment that meets needs and give opportunities to be generous to others.

E – Emotional health – mental health

S – Social relationships in correct perspective because the kingdom of God is a kingdom of right relationships.

S- Salvation to found in Jesus Christ – nothing less, nothing more.

I – Infilling & insight that the Holy Spirit gives.

N – Nurturing heart – one that gives nurture and one that receives nurturing (care for others).

G – Glory of God to be manifested in daily life.

The circular tour started in Ontario, OR and ended there as well. Tom Armstrong (former chaplain at SRCI) is pastoring a small country church and extended an invitation for the team to share Visions of Hope at the Owyhee Community Church. Art was on display during the Saturday evening music and ice cream event, as well as the Sunday service. Mark continued with worship music, and Sandy and I shared all the basics of VOH.

When God’s plans include service to others, it also accelerates the accomplishment of those goals. People want to be part of something that contributes and makes a difference. That very small congregation purchased over $700 of art!

In addition, Mark & Angie Brown, assembled 48 Fresh Start Backpacks to be delivered to Deer Ridge Correctional later this month. The team was able to pray over these and dedicate them to the parolees, asking the Lord to intercede in the first steps of new life outside of prison!

Thank you Lord for opportunities, opening new doors, providing funds and blessing us!

God, you are my God.
    I celebrate you. I praise you.
You’ve done your share of miracle-wonders,
    well-thought-out plans, solid and sure.

Isaiah 25:1