Date: Wednesday, March 25th 
Scripture: Psalm 79:11
“Let the groans of the prisoners come before you; according to your great power, preserve those doomed to die!”
By: Dai Morgan, United Methodist Advocacy Pennsylvania
Today’s verse is presented as three clauses. Each clause represents a separate idea. However, when formed together into one sentence they reinforce one another and become compounded. “Let the groans…,” recognizes that God is omniscient. “According to your great power,” God is omnipotent. “Preserve those doomed to die,” God is imminent. There are many circumstances by which people become prisoners. Some prisoners are culpable and appropriately incarcerated. Some are not. Prisoners include convicted mass murderers as well as innocent children in bondage to human trafficking. In this fallen world, justice can be whimsical. There is no guarantee of fairness or humane treatment.
So, the psalmist does not abandon or heap abuse on the prisoner, but seeks the mercy and grace of God. This is especially so for “those doomed to die!” The psalmist does not differentiate guilt or innocence, but asks that the most extreme punishment be averted. There is an expression, “There for the grace of God go I!” The psalmist gets it. Furthermore, the psalmist understands that prisoners matter to God! Why else write this? We who follow this tradition should remember two things. First, all people, even prisoners, are part of our broken world. And, second, God will set all things right.
Prayer: Lord, We look forward to the day when your kingdom will come on earth. Today, we struggle in a sinful world. On that day, your righteousness will prevail. Until then, we commend to you those who are in prison. We ask that you inspire us with wisdom and compassion, as we encounter the criminal justice system. Let us be humble, for justice is yours. Amen.
Criminal Justice Fact: There are two types of solitary confinement: Administrative and Disciplinary. Disciplinary Solitary Confinement comes with a set number of days per infraction, while Administrative does not.
Action: Consider hosting a solitary confinement cell replica in your congregation or workplace. Contact Emily Schmid at e.schmid@pachurches.org for more information. See news coverage of the cell at the Capitol Building here: https://www.erienewsnow.com/story/41647151/pa-lawmakers-advocate-for-solitary-confinement-reform
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