A group of men in a Michigan jail pod reached out and took hold of each other’s hands in a powerful moment of prayer.
Many people battle with these thoughts that blind them to the goodness of God. We feel like we are way too far gone for a second chance.
We look at our biggest mistakes and tell ourselves that God probably turned His back a long time ago. We assume some sins are just too big for a pardon. But these inmates show us that no one is ever out of His reach.
The Circle of Grace
Inside the Genesee County Jail, the cameras recorded something Sheriff Chris Swanson had never witnessed in his thirty-three years of work. The floor was crowded with about 240 men.
Many of them are facing heavy charges like murder or armed robbery. They live in a world where you usually have to be tough just to get through the day.
Around 100 inmates started moving toward each other without any guards telling them what to do. They formed a massive circle and gripped hands.
In the middle of the largest pod in the building, they started reciting ‘The Lord’s Prayer’ together. This prayer was taught by Jesus long ago to show us how to ask for daily help and for forgiveness. They weren’t asking for a way out of their cells but for a way into a better life.
Sheriff Swanson was so moved that he shared the footage on Facebook. He talked about how these men were choosing something better for themselves. He noticed they were asking for forgiveness for their sins in one loud, unified voice.
“I saw unity and hope,” Sheriff Swanson said.
The deputies didn’t even try to stop it. They just stood there and watched the peace take over the room.
No One Is Beyond His Reach
We can sometimes think that some people are too far gone for God to find them. This story shows us that His light doesn’t stop at a set of iron bars or a heavy door.
Who can you pray for today that seems like they are in a dark spot? Let’s join in and pray that these men keep finding the strength to walk a new path every single day.
If you are struggling with the weight of your sins, remember that Satan often tries to make us stray from God and salvation. Our God is a merciful God. He died for our sins, and His love for us stays the same forever.
No matter where you are, reach out to God today and let Him take control of your life.
WATCH: Michigan Jail Inmates Hold Hands and Pray Together
