Not Home. Come Home.

2025 Lenten Reflections

A PRAYER FOR

PRISONERS

“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free..."

Luke 4:18

Illustration by Eunice Sunmie Derksen

For the formerly incarcerated and those who still live behind bars, "home" can be hard to find. But God's HOME is just as much theirs as it is ours. Think of the Penitent Thief on the cross next to Christ:

"'Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.' Jesus answered him, 'Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.'" (Luke 23:42-43).

As you pray for prisoners, keep in mind that there are many brothers and sisters in Christ who live behind bars. Theirs is the Kingdom of God. We look forward in hope to the day when we all will be fully restored into the Love and rejoicing of the Father.

PRAYER

Prayer for All Those Living in Prison and Their Families


Heavenly Father, we lift up those imprisoned and their loved ones, all yearning for freedom and connection. Break the chains of fear and isolation. Pour out your love upon prisoners, their families, friends, and all who support them. Heal the wounds inflicted by crime, especially for victims. Grant us the grace to forgive, act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Christ, now and always.

God of compassion, we bring before You the families torn apart by incarceration:

  • Parents aching for their children

  • Children longing for their parents

  • Partners missing their "person"

  • Friends needing companionship

In times when visits are scarce, strengthen marriages, relationships, families, and friendships. Bless those who bridge the gaps between prison walls. Open our eyes to the needs within our prisons.
Amen.


 

A Prayer for the Church on the Inside
 

Heavenly Father, we praise you for the faith rising within prison walls. Our brothers and sisters on the inside are building your church with courage and devotion. Teach us through their witness—of redemption, hope, and the unstoppable power of your love. Unite us as one body, bound not by walls but by your Spirit. May their faith deepen our own and reveal your kingdom in unexpected places. We long for the day when all things are reconciled in you, our true home.
Amen.

TAKE ACTION

Call to Connect: Do You Work with Incarcerated Individuals?

A big part of what M25i does is learn from you, pray for you, and connect with you and others doing similar work. Do you serve vulnerable children or youth through educating, mentoring, tutoring, or fostering, whether you are a volunteer or paid? M25i offers virtual events to equip and connect with others who "get it." These free events are opportunities for cross-pollination when it comes to developing ministry practices and ideas. We hope you will join us!