Date: Wednesday, March 4
Scripture: Proverbs 31:8-9
Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
by Douglas Hollis, Sound Community Solutions
Too often our voices are silent and we are remiss of the voiceless, Our hearts lack empathy and compassion for those who are less fortunate. However, God calls us to stand up and speak for those who cannot. It is our responsibility to give voice to their stories, that others may hear and know the level of their suffrage. We cannot ignore the call of God.
In 1999, while I was incarcerated at SCI Coal Township, a Deputy Superintendent named Johnson sought to change a policy that gave inmates the opportunity to go to yard or the day room. He sent out the memo for the change. I sent a correspondence to the Superintendent asking why this change was necessary, when there had been no problems with the practice. The Superintendent rescinded the Deputy’s memo and restored the policy. I was, of course, transferred to another prison as a result of giving voice to the voiceless, but that was what God had called me to do.
In the book of Jonah, God called Jonah to speak to the people of Nineveh. He refused and ran to flee, but God caused a storm to arise and the crew became fearful; ultimately they cast him to the sea where he was swallowed by the large fish. He prayed to the Lord who restored him and sent him where He had called him to go. Our call, like Jonah’s, cannot be ignored. We must have compassion for the poor and care for the needy. And, yes, speak up, out, and for the voiceless. This is our calling.
Prayer: Precious Father in heaven, we humbly come before your throne of grace asking that you strip us of all fear and allow us to stand in the face of adversity for those who cannot. Amen.
Criminal Justice Fact: Over 400 people per year were released directly from solitary confinement to their communities in PA between 2008 and 2014.
Action: Look up who your legislators are and familiarize yourself with their policy positions. You can use this legislator lookup tool to find your US Senators, Rep, and local officials: https://org2.salsalabs.com/o/5415/getLocal.jsp
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