From The Christian Post:
As we put away our Easter decorations and wrap up this season on the liturgical Church calendar, these are the perfect days to reflect on the second chances offered to each one of us through the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have all received the ultimate second chance because of Christ’s sacrifice and, as Luke 6:36 says, we are called to be merciful just as our Father is merciful.
Second Chance Month is a time to raise awareness of the many barriers faced by millions of Americans with criminal records and unlock opportunities for them to contribute positively to society. It’s an ideal time for the Church to ask how we can extend God’s mercy by unlocking second chances.
It starts by embracing people as they are. My dad, a Vietnam veteran, struggled with substance use disorder after he was honorably discharged from service. After committing theft and robbery to buy drugs, he lost his freedom. He developed advanced dementia while in prison and, after years of our effort and treatment, was released on medical parole during his 26th year of imprisonment. The day we first visited National Community Church in Washington, D.C., together as a family, I shared my dad’s story with one of the pastors. There was no judgment levied on my father or my family — just open arms and Christ-like love. Continue reading >>>
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