Freedom from the chains that bind

Roots of Faith


 

 

During my seminary studies, I’d be off campus on Fridays and return in the evening to say, “I just got out of jail!” That was true, because my field work experience was serving as the chaplain intern at DuPage County Jail in Illinois.

My duties consisted of delivering copies of the Bible and Quran to the inmates, leading Bible studies, and talking to the prisoners who requested counseling.

In my conversations I noticed a pattern: the men and women often refused to take responsibility for their actions. One inmate in particular blamed his girlfriend, his family and everyone else for his incarceration.

I replied, “What about you? What did you do that put yourself here?”

A deputy told me that nearly all of the inmates were here due to substance abuse, lack of education, or both. The inmates committed crimes while drunk or high or else stole to pay for their drug habits. They lacked the necessary skills to keep a steady job and a place to live. They didn’t know how to maintain healthy, nonviolent relationships with their loved ones.

But these attitudes and faults are not limited to those behind bars. Grudges, anger, resentment, envy and addictions can hold anyone captive as much as a jail cell.

Even the giants of faith fell short in their walk with God. St. Paul writes, “For I do not do the good I want but I do the evil I do not want.” (Romans 7:19).

A person who is consumed with unholy thoughts is closed to love, compassion and empathy. A person focused inward on personal desires cannot serve God or others.

How do we do the good that we want to do?

First, take personal responsibility. It’s easy to blame others when things go wrong.

“I’d be happier if my spouse didn’t (fill in the blank).”

“I don’t have time for church because my job keeps me busy.”

“I’m stressed because my kids demand so much attention.”

“I’m a grouch because other people make my life miserable.”

If we can change the circumstance, can we do so in a kind, gentle manner? Do we need to set limits on our time and energies? Does our family life need an adjustment? If someone has offended us, can we clear the air with some calm conversation?

And if we can’t reform others, can we adjust our attitude? Pray for patience and understanding? Or is this a situation we need to leave?

Second, tackle any addiction that slows us down. An addiction can be any obsession that robs us of our time, finances, sanity and health. If we cannot overcome an addiction on our own, perhaps professional guidance is needed.

Third, the way to a righteous life is through education. Many simply don’t know how to live as a person of faith. Begin with Bible study, worship, service and relationships with other faith-filled people.

Above all, pray. We often strive to “do it all” through our own efforts. Don’t be afraid to admit your weaknesses and ask for God’s help. Then you’ll truly live a life free from the shortcomings that can hold a person captive.

Sally Carpenter has a Master of Divinity from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary and is a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church in Moorpark. Reach her at sallyc@theacorn.com.


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