The Wisdom of an Inmate
written by: Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
In the book Spying on the South, Tony Horwitz tells the story of going down to the infamous Angola Prison in Louisiana. Angola is the largest maximum-security prison in the United States. 90% of the inmates who enter Angola die within the walls. Therefore, hopelessness is epidemic throughout the institution. Yet, Horwitz met an inmate, Ron Hicks, who another inmate challenged to accept the Christian faith. Over time, Hicks not only embraced the faith but went to seminary while in Angola. He became a meaningful influence on the other inmates and would challenge others to accept the faith, just like he did.
Rather than challenge the inmates to accept the faith through fear of damnation for their often horrific deeds, inmate Hicks would encourage the other inmates by stating, "You are better than the worst thing you've done." The state of Louisiana only sent its worst criminals to Angola. The state collected its Rapists, murderers, and other violent offenders and tried to forget them behind the razor wire and double walls and forgotten. Angola was known as the bloodiest prison in the country, and many believed survival was only possible if you lost your humanity. Hicks helped people regain a sense of humanity and worth in such an inhuman environment.
Inmate Ron Hicks has challenged many inmates from their animalistic worldview back to a place of faithful hope. Hicks learned while studying seminary material that faith without hope and human value is dead. By challenging those trapped in a physical, emotional, and spiritual prison with the statement, "You are better than the worst thing you've done," Hicks helps them accept divine love long after they'd given up ever being whole again. If Hicks's inspiring phrase can help transform someone lost in the bowels of Angola prison, how much more can Ron Hicks's statement inspire you and me.
At this moment, say out loud to yourself, "I am better than the worst thing I've done!" We are all imperfect and fall short of the glory of God. We've all done things we regret and struggle to work through. Even when time has healed wounds, the memory sometimes brings renewed shame. Yet, each time you feel any level of shame, say inmate Ron Hicks' words to yourself, "I am better than the worst thing I've ever done." Further, as disciples of Jesus, we are called to help others on their faith journey. Remember to share the gift of Ron Hicks' words so others can also feel accepted and worthy again.
