The Creator Rebuilds Lives

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For generations we have heard that people become criminals and go to prison because of their parents, friends, poverty or society itself. Yet there has always been a majority of people who come from bad homes or poor neighborhoods who have lived responsible lives.

Now some police officials and psychologists are suggesting that criminal behavior is the fault of the criminal himself. The lifelong criminal chooses a pattern of dealing with life that is different from most people – and it’s often evident by the time he is four years old. They characterize what they call the criminal mind as a person who chooses to lie instead of taking responsibility. They say that traditional explanations that blame society for crime simply help the criminal mind avoid responsibility. The career criminal likes to break the law. As one rapist said, “If rape were legalized, I’d do something else.”

No, the origins issue is not simply a philosophical debate! At Creation Moments, we have heard from many serving prison terms for serious crimes. Those who contact us all say the same thing. They tell us that they have realized they must become responsible for their lives. They realize that in order to learn a new way of thinking they must begin by learning how to approach the Creator Who made them. And we are pleased to help them learn more about Him and His inviting and all forgiving love to them in Jesus Christ.

Hosea 6:6
“For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.”

Prayer: Dear Father, because I, too, sin, I know that the temptation to avoid responsibility for my actions in strong. Through Your Word of promise in the gospel, remind me that You are always more pleased to forgive me for Jesus’ sake than have me try to avoid You. Let my peace be in Christ. Amen.

Notes: “Exposing the criminal mind.” Science 84, Sept. 1984. p. 84. Image: US Disciplinary barracks, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.