A LETTER FROM JOHN REYES IN LYNCHBURG CITY JAIL

September 14, 1999
by John Reyes

"I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts." Psalm 119:45

For the past few days here in the Lynchburg City Jail, I have heard many of the inmates discussing how they can't wait to be set free from this place. I don't blame them. These men long for freedom. It is always on their minds and being expressed in their words. The Lord has shown me in these days that my freedom rests in Him. As I look out the barred windows and see the razor wire surrounding the jail grounds, I can rejoice because I am free!

Some of the inmates here with me understand what I am talking about. These men are free too! Yes, they are bound physically yet they understand their freedom is in Christ. I remind them that neither the present nor the future, nor height nor depth, nor anything else can separate us from the love of Christ (Rom 8: 35-39). This is true freedom!

Those who don't know Christ here in jail will never be free until they meet the liberator - Jesus Christ. These men are slaves to their own passions and sin, just like you and I once were. Even if they were not behind bars they would still be prisoners awaiting a judgment and punishment far worse than the one they are currently experiencing.

I pray that these men will one day experience true freedom. I pray that they will come to understand what it means to be "free at last!" Many are very receptive to the message of being set free by Christ. We gather each day for Bible study. The men long for physical freedom while their hearts long to be set free from the bondage of sin that has held them captive most of their lives.

The God of freedom is here in the Lynchburg City Jail. He holds the keys - ready to unlock bound hearts. He is moving here and doing great work! Already three young men have given their hearts to Christ. The Son is setting men free from death and I rejoice in God my Savior because He is doing wonderful things! Let Freedom Ring in Lynchburg City Jail.