Happy Easter! I wanted to share a poem with you that was written by one of the “preacher men” in the N.O.B.T.S. prison ministry degree program. His name is Thomas. He wrote this at Christmas, and it was so beautiful I asked him for a copy. He gave me permission to share it with you. I thought it was appropriate for Easter, as well. I hope you enjoy.
Born to Be Slain
So often we come to prayer
with hearts closed and hands open
looking for the handouts
from the first word that’s spoken.
How quick we forget
what He’s already done
not in the giving of gifts
but in giving us His Son.
He gave us His Son
who in turn gave His life
and because of His death
we don’t have to die twice.
In essence He was born
to be a bearer of our burdens
for that mother that lost her son
to that abused child that’s hurting.
He was born to take the stumbling
out that drunk man’s walk
to take the slur out of his tongue
and to teach him how to talk.
He was born to stop that prostitute
from bowing for fees
and to teach her to touch heaven
from those very same knees.
He was born to take the pistol
out that young gangster’s hand
put the word in his heart
and make him a preacher man.
He was born to take the crack pipe
out that dope addict’s mouth
then give him a testimony
that the Lord brought me out!
He was born to take racism
out the heart of that Klansman
and give him a new spirit
so he can love that black man.
He was born to take hatred
out that Black Panther’s eyes
so he can tell his white brother
we need each other to survive.
The reason for the season
is because Christ was born
and sent to save a world
so shattered, broken, and torn.
The world has X’ed His name
for holiday profits and gains
but forever I will claim
He was born to be slain.
-Thomas
Please join me in praying for this young man who has turned his life around because of the One who was born to be slain. I will be sure any prayers and/or comments you leave for Thomas will get back to him. I think it’s important he understand he can minister even from behind prison walls. Nothing is too much of an obstacle for God. Thank you!
Anticipating Him,
WOW…what a wonderful poem!
So glad he shared with us!
Have a Happy Easter!
Tell Thomas I’ll give him a hug when I meet him in heaven…that was beautiful!!!!!
Thanks for sharing this Carol. On my blog I have a Mr. Linky going on for Easter posts.
Have a blessed day of celebrating!
That is such a beautiful poem!! I actually go to MTSU and cannot wait until I can teach!! 🙂 I went to Belmont for undergrad but my brother went to UT 🙂
Carol, how awesome! Please thank Thomas for this wonderful poem that God inspired him to write!!It is amazing!
Easter Blessings,
Susan
What a wonderful poem..thanks for sharing…there may be no end to the gifts God has placed in this person for His glory. Happy Easter.
Looks like he’s got some God given talent!
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you from taking this man from shame to glory and putting words in his heart to share with the world. God we know that with you all things are possible. I lift Thomas up tonight in prayer that you will continue to do your work in him and give him opportunities to share his testimony with others. I know well how you can set a sinner free. And what the Lord sets free is free indeed! I pray you will continue to mold Thomas into what you need him to be for your certain purpose. You know the plans you have for him Lord and you will always complete what you start. Show him the way Lord and help him to always follow. I love how you bring beauty from ashes. In Jesus’ name I pray and all according to your will, Amen.
Carol, Hope you can share this with Thomas – “ Thank for sharing such a lovely poem. It is very meaningful. You are in my prayers as you minister where you are. Thanks.” Susan
INCREDIBLE!!! LOVE IT….
In fact, I would love to have his permission to share this with a group of ladies I’ll be spending a weekend with in June. They are in a Christian rehab place and getting their life back together. I think these powerful words will touch them. 🙂
Thanks Carol for sharing this with us!
Hugs,
steph.