| The Sorcerer and the Strongman
Brad H. - Cleveland, OH 2010
On a Monday, I had resigned from a Christian power lifting team. On Wednesday, I talked with my cousin who I take turns preaching with at The City Mission in Cleveland. He suggested I get involved with Bill Glass Ministries. I have to say I was apprehensive, but from the first moment walking into Grace Church I was at ease. The training was great. Everyone I met was supportive. When we arrived at the facility things went smoothly. It was amazing. I was recognized by one inmate, but we didn't know from where. Then to my surprise someone had heard of me from preaching at the Mission. Talking was easy. Thirty five years of working alongside ex-cons paid off greatly. I was realizing why God had brought me through so much and finally to this great ministry. Jack Murphy did a great job encouraging the men. I sat down at a picnic table with the inmate that recognized me. It turned out the table was all Muslim. So my worst fear came true, but God had a plan. By the time it was over, three men had answers from Scripture and tracts and Bible study guides in their pockets. I was stunned at what had taken place. I thanked the Lord for what his Holy Spirit had done. From there it just got easier to share, speak and pray with these men.
It's hard to pick a favorite or most impactful moment. I do have to say the time spent with a young inmate that attended to basically "debunk" Christianity as an evolved religion from ancient pagans was best. It turned out he was into sorcery and witchcraft as were his parents. About six of us were at the table. As he sat down across from me, I knew this was going to be "good". God was so gracious, He provided encouragement from all the men. It was incredible as we watched "the heart of stone" softened and replaced with "a heart of flesh" (Ezekiel 36:26). We gathered around him, put our hands on him and prayed. In the end he read the Sinner's Prayer through tears. We hugged and cried, but what was greatest, was what he said after Duche Bradley had spoken, he said, "Someday I want to be that guy, talkin' to cons." He was changed and so was I. My own relationship with Jesus Christ took a giant leap forward. I actually wanted to do more when the weekend was over. I will continue to "go to prison" any chance I have. Thanks to the Lord Almighty and to all those I met and Bill Glass for offering hope in what seems to be hopeless places.
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