Mighty to Save

Hillsong tells us what many of us already know (maybe we needed to be reminded) - Our God is Mighty to Save.  Before the song there is an amazing speech by the lead singer.

Voting for Returning Citizens

Every state differs when it comes to voting rights of felons.  Some states (Maine & Vermont) actually allow prisoners to vote by absentee ballot while they are locked up!  Iowa, however, has played a political game with the democratic governor going in one direction and the republican governor going back the other way.  Who will rise above it all and actually do the right thing?

Iowa - On Jan. 14, 2011, the Republican Governor of Iowa, Terry Branstad, issued executive order 70, rescinding a law allowing people convicted of a felony to automatically have their ability to vote restored after completing their sentences. The automatic voting restoration law had been instituted by former Democratic Governor Tom Vilsack's signing of executive order 42 in 2005. Felons in Iowa must now pay all outstanding monetary obligations to the court in addition to completing their sentence and period of parole or probation. People convicted of a felony may then apply for restoration of the ability to vote.

Executive Order 70 - Signed Jan. 14, 2011, Terry Branstad, Governor (R) 

Executive Order 42 - Signed July 4, 2005, Thomas J. Vilsack, JD, Governor (D) 

Today is Gift

This is a sign I spotted in the hospital restroom today.  Just felt I needed to share this with you.

Incredible Concert!

Piercing the Darkness rocked the prison on May 3.  In my opinion it was their best concert yet.  It was both electrifying and inspiring.  The sound quality was outstanding.  The vocals were dynamic and the instruments were awesome too.  I grew up in the 80's so I have a big appreciation of rock music.  And PTD puts on an incredible show.  The band had the music going but a stage presence too.  They charged up and down the middle aisle and entertained.  But this music was more than just mere entertainment - it was God glorifying.  The music gave glory to the Father, glory to the Son, and glory to the Spirit.  The music gave witness to the good news of Jesus Christ.  In addition, the lead guitar player's wife gave personal testimony in between two lengthy sets.  Her testimony captured the attention of the 150 men in attendance at the prison gym.  She gave a persuasive talk encouraging men to come to repentance and faith, living a life marked by forgiveness.  I hope Piercing the Darkness returns - their service to God and man is greatly appreciated.  A big thanks to Steve and the rest of the band!!!

Here's a sample of their music - PTD's hit song - "More than Human."  Enjoy!

National Day of Prayer

Thursday I went to the National Day of Prayer breakfast in Newton.  I was asked to pray for the prison.  Would you pray too?  Here is a prayer card to help you pray for the prison, the prison officials, and the prisoner.  Don't forget that Hebrews 13:3 calls us to "remember those in prison as if we ourselves were prisoners."  May our gracious God mold each of us into people of prayer!