Many of you already know, I’m a mentor to incarcerated teen girls. I volunteer with Youth for Christ, a great ministry. Recently, the gal I’d been seeing for a few months was released. I was excited for her, yet deep down, I had my doubts.
Good news: She called me when she got out. A really good sign as most teens make promises they don’t keep.
Bad news: She called me again a week later. She’s back in jail. She couldn’t control her anger at her new foster home.
I’m no different than this mixed up, hurting girl. I’m a repeat offender too. The only difference is my sin is legal. No one will arrest me for being prideful or judgmental. I get away with it. Except, I really don’t get away with it. God convicts me. I’m like the apostle Paul, the things I don’t want to do, I do.
Can you relate?
As a mentor, I continue to love and pray for repeat offenders. And as I reach out, I pray I too will change. I want to learn to love extravagantly instead of judging or condemning. I want to give of myself, expecting nothing in return. And I want the unwavering faith that waits expectantly for God to show up.
I have hope for this lost girl. She may not see it, but it’s there. God never gives up on those He created. I know, He never gave up on me. And believe me, I’ve been there, done that.
Please pray for repeat offenders, Me and K,* (name protected) as we continue our journey together however short or long.
Tiffany, that was beautiful. Funny, I woke up this morning praying for your ministry. What a gift and also, a two-way street in that you are both learning and growing as you share your love of Jesus with your young friend.
Although I know there are sometimes setbacks and disappointments, I found in the Word this moring that Jesus sees all and knows all and He covers this with his love. Your encouragment does not go unoticed in the Kingdome.
Love, Paulette
Tiffany,
What a wonderfully insightful message. You are scattering seed for the Lord and it looks like He has you right where He wants you.
Serving at your side…
Mike
Tiffany,
Your precious heart that pours out the Lord will be counted to you in His heavenly rewards. In the meantime you are blessing those of us who know you and those who can “read your heart” on your blog site! Praises for Tiffany and prayers for both you and “K”!
SO true, Tiffany. I feel exactly the same way. I am a repeat offender and I need the love and grace of God as well as other humans in order to improve.
Thank you for sharing your love so unselfishly with the world! The girls you mentor are incredibly blessed.
Good words, Tiffany. I’m praising the God who never gives up on us.
I would love to get together for lunch sometime soon. Let me know what works for you!
Hi. Just came across your blog on CWO, and it caught my eye because I’m a Tiffany too.
Anyway, I said a prayer for you and K. Thanks for the reminder that just because we’re not in jail doesn’t mean we’re ok. 🙂
Blessings.
Just dropping by to say “HELLO” – thinking of you! Hope all is well with you! Miss ya!