References:
• June 23 article on Wis. Youth facility
• June 24 article on Wis. Youth facility
I read the first article concerning the Wisconsin youth facility, writing on June 23, 2017, a few days ago. Having worked in corrections for almost 10 years now, I was both concerned about how the Inmates were being treated and alarmed about how others who have no clue what our job is like (like the lawyers of the ACLU) want to make our job more dangerous. While looking the first article up, I found the second one, which was written on the next day (written on June 24, 2017). That make me a bit more upset.
I started working for the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services (NDCS) in January of 2006. I briefly left in 2011 in order to pursue a ministry career. When that fell through, God reopened the same position (custody staff) with the NDCS. I have been with them ever since.
To be honest, it is a very difficult job, fraught with great risks. There can be great rewards as one sees lives changed. But, many choose to not change, in spite of all of the opportunities and programs that they are given. While I have only worked at a men’s facility, I have talked with several co-workers who work in the youth facility here in Nebraska. From the conversations that I have had with them over the years, they face many of the same challenges that we do. That is, they deal with Inmates that are often just as manipulative and physically dangerous as those that I deal with. And, being teenagers, they have a higher tendency to lash out than adults because of the fact that they do not have the same impulse control as some adult Inmates do. Though some of the youth may not be as physically strong as an adult, they are often in better shape due to their age. This is especially so with those of us who are over 40 years old and work in corrections.
Some people go to prison because they made one mistake and they were caught. Other have made living out of committing crimes. For those who have made it a lifestyle out of committing crime, who have anger issues, have had drug and/or alcohol abuse issues, etc., those of us who represent law and order become their targets. As anyone who has spent time working in a jail or prison, we have to be constantly aware of our surroundings, because of the dangerous people that we deal with.
Most of us who work in corrections genuinely care about others and want to help them make good changes in their lives. That is our goal. Those who want to work in Corrections (or any other Law Enforcement position) because of having power over others usually do not last very long. Such people either get fired from their job, get shunned by those of us who do care enough that they choose to leave (I personally have no tolerance for such people), or they become the focus of the Inmates’ ire and are assaulted. In the case of the latter, when such staff member realizes that they no longer have the power over others that they crave, they leave for ‘greener pastures.’
Don’t get me wrong, there are staff who are cruel and vindictive people who stay within Corrections. However, they are a very small minority. Just like in the military, Law Enforcement, working in the health care system, such people rarely last very long before they are forced out, choose to leave, or are seriously injured or killed.
One of the things that I am proud about with my training with NDCS is how it has adapted over the years concerning Inmate control that is safe and humane. Our primary always has been and always will be our interpersonal skills. The better training Corrections Professionals (including Custody Staff, Unit Staff, administration and support staff, etc.) have in de-escalation, the safer everyone is. However, de-escalation does not always work. For Inmates who have either lost control of their ability to reason (due to anger issues, currently being under the influence of a drug or alcohol, a vindictive/anti-social attitude, etc.), other means of maintaining control have to be used. That is how life is for us.
The wonderful thing about using pepper spray (or similar item) is that it does not cause long-term medical problems, are temporary, and usually cause the Inmate to surrender so that little to no physical force has to be used. When little to no physical force has to be used, it is a win-win situation. Why is that? Because neither staff nor the Inmate receive physical injuries.
In the training that I have received with the Nebraska National Guard as a MP, as well as with NDCS, I had to be exposed to the same chemical agents that we use. That way, not only do we know that we can work, in spite of the agents, but we also know how it affects the Inmate. Any time we have to use chemicals in order to gain control of an aggressive Inmate, we get exposed too. It sucks for them, and it sucks for us.
As I have contemplated the articles that I read, I have to wonder… Is the issue with the staff with how they use force, or is it with the Inmates trying to use the legal system to remove effective tools from the staff? Think of it this way… If two Inmates are fighting are determined to cause serious bodily injury to the other, do you think that they will stop fighting with three, four, or more staff show up? Youth or adult it doesn’t matter. Such Inmates who genuinely want to cause serious bodily injury to the other won’t just stop fighting when staff show up. Physical force will have to be used. Now, do you want to try and restrain a person who is very angry and wants to injure others with just physical strength? I don’t if I absolutely do not have to. If I can use chemical agents so that they decide to stop fighting, then it becomes much safer to intervene.
Restraints, restrictive housing, and chemicals are all tools that we in Corrections use to maintain control and keep ourselves and other Inmates safe. Having good training with the proper use of such things, good training with verbal de-escalation skills, clear guidance with how they should be applied, good programs available to give Inmates tools to more effectively deal with life, stress, anger, etc., those are things that keep all of us safe. Taking such tools away from us so that we are more likely to have to use physical force to stop dangerous behavior (to us, to other Inmates, to the public, and to the Inmate him/herself), that puts all of us in a more dangerous situation.
There is something else that I have often wondered… Those who are trying to champion Inmates by taking away effective tools from staff, do they have any clue as to how dangerous of a job that we have? I very seriously doubt it. All that they know is what the Inmate tells them. And, whenever a lawyer from the ACLU talks with an Inmate, it is always from the perspective as a lawyer for brief periods of time. Just like with the clergy that visit Inmates, their friends and family when they visit, lawyers and the media, they only see the mask that most of them put on for them. They do not see the day-to-day decisions, attitudes, etc., that we see on a daily basis.
I am all for programming to help those who are incarcerated to gain tools to change their lives. However, they will want to have to change. Just because they are given tools does not mean that it will make them make better choices. It may take time for the change to come, or it may never come. But, when good programming is available, then access to the tools for positive changes are there. But, there will always be those who will not change. For those who take a long time to change, if at all, staff have to have the tools necessary to keep everyone safer. Not all tools will work. There is always a high risk for injury or death at a prison, for staff and other Inmates. It will always be that way. But, the betters that staff have, and better programming for Inmates, the less the change for danger and the better the chances for everyone staying healthy and alive.
One last thought… For those who like to champion the “poor and abused” Inmates, here’s a radical thought. Why don’t you actually spend a few years working in Corrections. Not on the premise of, “oh, I am a lawyer but I want to see how things are for a little while.” If you take such an approach, you will see the façade that they give to the public and not see the darkness in their hearts. Have the mindset that you will ‘set the lawyer’ aside and ONLY work as a Corrections Professional. Go through our training, deal with the angry outburst (over legitimate things, and ridiculous ones), be on our uses of force, see them without their masks as they interact with other Inmates and with staff. If you want me to take your advice seriously, then you need to understand just how dangerous my job is.
In the almost ten years, I have seen many Inmates seek to make positive changes in their lives. For some, it took many years for the seeds of change to take root and to grow. For some others, the change came more quickly. For many others, it has not come at all. When you have all three mixed together, you have the high potential for great danger. To them and to staff. That is the nature of our job as Corrections Professionals. Enable us to do our job better, not make it harder. There are some staff that I enjoy working with more than others. No matter what, I want all of us to be able to go home to our friends and family safely each night (or morning if you work the night shift). We all have loved ones that want us to come home safely each night. Helps us to do our jobs better and more safely, not make it more dangerous.
Showing posts with label prison. Show all posts
Showing posts with label prison. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 5, 2017
Monday, August 29, 2016
A Justifiable Death
References:
• The Larger Catechism, Specifically Questions and Answers 134-136 (It will be towards the middle of the Web Page.)
• Exodus 20:1-17 NAS
• Exodus 23:1-9 NAS
• Deuteronomy 5:4 NAS
• Micah 6:6-16 NAS
• abortion definition
**Notice**
The topics of abortion and the death penalty are very touchy items for many, many people. The way that I have tried to approach this is from a biblical world view that focus on what God considers to be justice. I know that many people, because of the pain that they have experienced in their own lives, have very strong opinions on these issues. I also know that some people will look down upon anyone who does not share their particular view point. It is not my intention to ‘look down upon’ others. Whether you agree with the death penalty, are pro-choice or pro-life, read at your own discretion. My goal is simply to share what I have learned from studying Scripture over the years. To be honest, there are times where God convicts my heart of things while I learn and grow as a Christian. It is very, very challenging to walk with God.
Remember, God's Grace is amazing. He can always reach you where you are, forgive you for all of your past mistakes. God wants to have a personal relationship with you, and His Grace is greater than anything you have done or could do though. Seek His Grace for what you have done and seek His wisdom with what you need to do.
Over the years I have been asked concerning my stance on the death penalty and abortion. When I state that I am pro-life and pro-death (penalty), many people have told me “you can’t be pro-life and pro-death!” or “You are either for abortion and the death penalty, or you are only for life!” To do try to explain why I can be against abortion and for the death penalty, but many people refuse to believe it. Being a strong introvert, it is more difficult for me to verbally explain what I believe and why. This is especially with those who are extremely extroverted and/or love to argue things. Because I am much better and explaining myself via writing, I will highlight what I believe. And, as I have mentioned many times before, this is not a thorough explanation of what I believe, just an overview.
For those who did not grow up in a Christian denomination that studies various early church writings like the Short and Larger Catechisms and various confessions, like the Westminster Confession of Faith, I will offer a brief explanation of what they are and their importance. During the Early Church, various church leaders gathered together to write various works to explain the Christian faith and correct unorthodox beliefs. Things like the Apostles Creed, Shorter and Larger Catechisms, etc., were the results. Such writings do not take precedence over Scripture. They are used to help understand Scripture. If you have not explored these important writings of the Early Church, I highly, highly encourage you to do so.
With the Larger Catechism, I was to specifically look at Question/Answer 136. It is explained exactly what we are to do, and not to do, in order to honor the 6th Commandment. In a nutshell, we are not to take an ‘innocent life.’ What is an ‘innocent life?’ An innocent life is one that has not committed a crime that should be punished by death. For example, doing such things as lying, stealing food or books, verbally insulting someone, etc., are crimes hardly worthy of being put to death. Instead, it would be more justifiable if the person who committed such acts paid restitution, spent time in prison, or something else reasonable.
However, in situations where a person commits forced rape, killing numerous people through gross negligence (for example, driving while intoxicated and causing an accident that kills several people), or intentionally killing a person out of anger, envy, or to try and hide a crime. All of these examples are one where a person chooses to cause great injury, pain, and even the death of someone else. Though the death penalty may not be the right sentence for everyone it should be an option. Especially for those who choose to do something out of the anger/malice of their hearts, have a history of hurting or abusing other people, or kill the person in such a way as to show that they were hiding another crime, trying to cause excessive suffering, etc.
Of course, care must be taken to make sure that the correct person is being sentenced for a crime that had been committed. This goes for any crime, serious or not. The punishment needs to be appropriate for the crime that had been committed. But, when the evidence has been closely examined and weighed, and a verdict of guilty has been rendered, one other very important thing has to be considered. Just how much of a threat is this person to society? What kind of justice would be most appropriate so that the friends and family of the victim(s) could get closure? It isn’t just the threat to society that one has to worry about. It is also the threat he/she holds to those who work in the prison system.
For example, is the person going to be a significant threat to other inmates and staff within the prison system? Are they extremely callous, or do they show signs of repentance? Do they have a history of violence? If they are in a gang, especially one who is already high up in the ranks or wanting to move up, no matter at what cost, how likely are they to engage in violent behavior while incarcerated? All of these are very serious questions that need to be carefully examined. It’s not just about ‘justice’ for what he/she did to a person or a group of people, but also justice for those directly affected by the death and the people that will have to deal with him/her while in prison.
In summary, the Death Penalty is a method for a State or country to enforce laws and to protect the members of society. Those who work as corrections professionals (custody staff, unity staff, maintenance staff, amongst many others who work in corrections and with Inmates on a daily basis) have families, too. This is probably something many people either don’t understand or choose to ignore. If you choose to not sentence a violent person in their 20’s or 30’s to death, but just give them life, the staff have to deal with that person for decades to come. Yes, some people do change. However, not everyone does. And, as I have explained to many people, the few hours that an Inmate has with friends and family during visitation, while in court, or attending a religious activity, is just one face of an Inmate. From personal experience, I have seen numerous Inmates put on a very convincing front about being apologetic and remorseful about their crimes and very pious. Even very loving and caring towards others. However, I have seen many Inmates show a very angry and vengeful attitude towards staff.
Though some Inmates change, many do not. And, it is not an easy decision. One that needs to be made very, very carefully. But, all of these things need to be taken in consideration. Not just the heinousness of the crime and its impact on community, but the person’s history and the threat that he or she will be towards those who have to deal with him on a daily basis in prison. To ignore any of these, especially those who work in a prison, is to make light of or totally disregard them.
Now, concerning abortion… What is abortion, but the ending the life of a fetus (unborn baby) while it is still growing within the mother. If we take into consideration what justifiable homicide is verses murder, there is a significant difference. One involves the taking of a life in defense of oneself or someone else, and one involves the killing of someone who has not done anything wrong. In Deuteronomy 5:17 and Exodus 20:13, the same Hebrew word is used, רצח (raw-tsakh') (Lexicon number 7532 or http://www.biblestudytools.com/lexicons/hebrew/nas/ratsach.html) primarily means to murder or slay a person.
In the Micah 6 passage, we see two important things. One is the evil that is being done to other people. The other, in Micah 6:8, we see how God calls us to live. We are “…to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God…” That is, we are to protect others, show love and kindness to others, and to walk in total dependence with God. As I argued earlier, there is a time and place where a person who has committed a grievous crime against someone else (especially murder), where the death penalty would be a justifiable sentence. However, if we are to ‘love justice,’ would the killing of a fetus be ‘justifiable?’
Let’s seriously think about this for a moment. Did the fetus commit a heinous crime against the mother, or against someone else, or was the woman (or girl’s) pregnancy the result of someone else’s sin? Did the woman become pregnant because she stole food, verbally slandered someone, or because she got into a fight and accidently injured or killed someone? Or, did a woman or girl become pregnant because either they choose to have sex with someone or someone forced them to have sex? What will be the end result of ending the life of the fetus (who is the innocent bystander here)? Will it be justice, or will it be revenge?
I know that many of those who push ‘pro-choice’ emphasize the very volatile and emotion driven topic of women and children being raped and becoming pregnant. Therefore, if the child is from an unwanted relationship, it should be up to the woman or girl as to if the fetus should be allowed to live or to die. To me, whether or not the fetus (again, unborn baby) we created from consensual or nonconsensual sex, is beside the point. If we are to act justly with something, we have to punish those who have committed a crime. Since a fetus is the result of a bad choice (consensual sex) or the result of being sexually assaulted, it did not commit a crime.
In life, there are times when we have to make very, very difficult choices. Things that can have a huge impact on our lives and the lives of those around us. And these choices can be laden with all sorts of very, very strong emotion. During these times, it can be very difficult to make wise decisions. However, if we are to live by God’s standards, we have to be very, very careful how we choose to do things. It is wrong in God’s eyes for us to not protect the innocent. Throughout Scripture, God condemns the oppression of ‘the widow, the orphan, the alien.’ God calls us to uphold justice. With that, we are to punish those who commit evil in a manner that evil or revengeful. The other side of the coin is that, if we are ‘to live justly,’ we are to protect those who have not committed a crime.
A final thought… I do not get excited about people being put to death. I would rather see people repent of the evil that they have done. However, from what I have learned from studying human nature and my experiences as a MP and in Corrections, I know that many people choose not to change. No prison will perfectly protect the community at large. Inmates have known to escape from time-to-time. Not just that, but violent prisoners are still a daily danger to other inmates and the staff that enforce the rules and provide programing to help those who want to change.
• The Larger Catechism, Specifically Questions and Answers 134-136 (It will be towards the middle of the Web Page.)
• Exodus 20:1-17 NAS
• Exodus 23:1-9 NAS
• Deuteronomy 5:4 NAS
• Micah 6:6-16 NAS
• abortion definition
**Notice**
The topics of abortion and the death penalty are very touchy items for many, many people. The way that I have tried to approach this is from a biblical world view that focus on what God considers to be justice. I know that many people, because of the pain that they have experienced in their own lives, have very strong opinions on these issues. I also know that some people will look down upon anyone who does not share their particular view point. It is not my intention to ‘look down upon’ others. Whether you agree with the death penalty, are pro-choice or pro-life, read at your own discretion. My goal is simply to share what I have learned from studying Scripture over the years. To be honest, there are times where God convicts my heart of things while I learn and grow as a Christian. It is very, very challenging to walk with God.
Remember, God's Grace is amazing. He can always reach you where you are, forgive you for all of your past mistakes. God wants to have a personal relationship with you, and His Grace is greater than anything you have done or could do though. Seek His Grace for what you have done and seek His wisdom with what you need to do.
Over the years I have been asked concerning my stance on the death penalty and abortion. When I state that I am pro-life and pro-death (penalty), many people have told me “you can’t be pro-life and pro-death!” or “You are either for abortion and the death penalty, or you are only for life!” To do try to explain why I can be against abortion and for the death penalty, but many people refuse to believe it. Being a strong introvert, it is more difficult for me to verbally explain what I believe and why. This is especially with those who are extremely extroverted and/or love to argue things. Because I am much better and explaining myself via writing, I will highlight what I believe. And, as I have mentioned many times before, this is not a thorough explanation of what I believe, just an overview.
For those who did not grow up in a Christian denomination that studies various early church writings like the Short and Larger Catechisms and various confessions, like the Westminster Confession of Faith, I will offer a brief explanation of what they are and their importance. During the Early Church, various church leaders gathered together to write various works to explain the Christian faith and correct unorthodox beliefs. Things like the Apostles Creed, Shorter and Larger Catechisms, etc., were the results. Such writings do not take precedence over Scripture. They are used to help understand Scripture. If you have not explored these important writings of the Early Church, I highly, highly encourage you to do so.
With the Larger Catechism, I was to specifically look at Question/Answer 136. It is explained exactly what we are to do, and not to do, in order to honor the 6th Commandment. In a nutshell, we are not to take an ‘innocent life.’ What is an ‘innocent life?’ An innocent life is one that has not committed a crime that should be punished by death. For example, doing such things as lying, stealing food or books, verbally insulting someone, etc., are crimes hardly worthy of being put to death. Instead, it would be more justifiable if the person who committed such acts paid restitution, spent time in prison, or something else reasonable.
However, in situations where a person commits forced rape, killing numerous people through gross negligence (for example, driving while intoxicated and causing an accident that kills several people), or intentionally killing a person out of anger, envy, or to try and hide a crime. All of these examples are one where a person chooses to cause great injury, pain, and even the death of someone else. Though the death penalty may not be the right sentence for everyone it should be an option. Especially for those who choose to do something out of the anger/malice of their hearts, have a history of hurting or abusing other people, or kill the person in such a way as to show that they were hiding another crime, trying to cause excessive suffering, etc.
Of course, care must be taken to make sure that the correct person is being sentenced for a crime that had been committed. This goes for any crime, serious or not. The punishment needs to be appropriate for the crime that had been committed. But, when the evidence has been closely examined and weighed, and a verdict of guilty has been rendered, one other very important thing has to be considered. Just how much of a threat is this person to society? What kind of justice would be most appropriate so that the friends and family of the victim(s) could get closure? It isn’t just the threat to society that one has to worry about. It is also the threat he/she holds to those who work in the prison system.
For example, is the person going to be a significant threat to other inmates and staff within the prison system? Are they extremely callous, or do they show signs of repentance? Do they have a history of violence? If they are in a gang, especially one who is already high up in the ranks or wanting to move up, no matter at what cost, how likely are they to engage in violent behavior while incarcerated? All of these are very serious questions that need to be carefully examined. It’s not just about ‘justice’ for what he/she did to a person or a group of people, but also justice for those directly affected by the death and the people that will have to deal with him/her while in prison.
In summary, the Death Penalty is a method for a State or country to enforce laws and to protect the members of society. Those who work as corrections professionals (custody staff, unity staff, maintenance staff, amongst many others who work in corrections and with Inmates on a daily basis) have families, too. This is probably something many people either don’t understand or choose to ignore. If you choose to not sentence a violent person in their 20’s or 30’s to death, but just give them life, the staff have to deal with that person for decades to come. Yes, some people do change. However, not everyone does. And, as I have explained to many people, the few hours that an Inmate has with friends and family during visitation, while in court, or attending a religious activity, is just one face of an Inmate. From personal experience, I have seen numerous Inmates put on a very convincing front about being apologetic and remorseful about their crimes and very pious. Even very loving and caring towards others. However, I have seen many Inmates show a very angry and vengeful attitude towards staff.
Though some Inmates change, many do not. And, it is not an easy decision. One that needs to be made very, very carefully. But, all of these things need to be taken in consideration. Not just the heinousness of the crime and its impact on community, but the person’s history and the threat that he or she will be towards those who have to deal with him on a daily basis in prison. To ignore any of these, especially those who work in a prison, is to make light of or totally disregard them.
Now, concerning abortion… What is abortion, but the ending the life of a fetus (unborn baby) while it is still growing within the mother. If we take into consideration what justifiable homicide is verses murder, there is a significant difference. One involves the taking of a life in defense of oneself or someone else, and one involves the killing of someone who has not done anything wrong. In Deuteronomy 5:17 and Exodus 20:13, the same Hebrew word is used, רצח (raw-tsakh') (Lexicon number 7532 or http://www.biblestudytools.com/lexicons/hebrew/nas/ratsach.html) primarily means to murder or slay a person.
In the Micah 6 passage, we see two important things. One is the evil that is being done to other people. The other, in Micah 6:8, we see how God calls us to live. We are “…to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God…” That is, we are to protect others, show love and kindness to others, and to walk in total dependence with God. As I argued earlier, there is a time and place where a person who has committed a grievous crime against someone else (especially murder), where the death penalty would be a justifiable sentence. However, if we are to ‘love justice,’ would the killing of a fetus be ‘justifiable?’
Let’s seriously think about this for a moment. Did the fetus commit a heinous crime against the mother, or against someone else, or was the woman (or girl’s) pregnancy the result of someone else’s sin? Did the woman become pregnant because she stole food, verbally slandered someone, or because she got into a fight and accidently injured or killed someone? Or, did a woman or girl become pregnant because either they choose to have sex with someone or someone forced them to have sex? What will be the end result of ending the life of the fetus (who is the innocent bystander here)? Will it be justice, or will it be revenge?
I know that many of those who push ‘pro-choice’ emphasize the very volatile and emotion driven topic of women and children being raped and becoming pregnant. Therefore, if the child is from an unwanted relationship, it should be up to the woman or girl as to if the fetus should be allowed to live or to die. To me, whether or not the fetus (again, unborn baby) we created from consensual or nonconsensual sex, is beside the point. If we are to act justly with something, we have to punish those who have committed a crime. Since a fetus is the result of a bad choice (consensual sex) or the result of being sexually assaulted, it did not commit a crime.
In life, there are times when we have to make very, very difficult choices. Things that can have a huge impact on our lives and the lives of those around us. And these choices can be laden with all sorts of very, very strong emotion. During these times, it can be very difficult to make wise decisions. However, if we are to live by God’s standards, we have to be very, very careful how we choose to do things. It is wrong in God’s eyes for us to not protect the innocent. Throughout Scripture, God condemns the oppression of ‘the widow, the orphan, the alien.’ God calls us to uphold justice. With that, we are to punish those who commit evil in a manner that evil or revengeful. The other side of the coin is that, if we are ‘to live justly,’ we are to protect those who have not committed a crime.
A final thought… I do not get excited about people being put to death. I would rather see people repent of the evil that they have done. However, from what I have learned from studying human nature and my experiences as a MP and in Corrections, I know that many people choose not to change. No prison will perfectly protect the community at large. Inmates have known to escape from time-to-time. Not just that, but violent prisoners are still a daily danger to other inmates and the staff that enforce the rules and provide programing to help those who want to change.
Tuesday, June 2, 2015
Why "Law and Grace"?
There are probably a number of you out there who are wondering, "Where on earth did you get the idea of 'law and grace' for theme of your blog?" That is a good question. It is actually a reflection of who I am as a person and the kind of training that I have gone through over the years. Yes, it is quite a paradox. But, then again, when you read Scripture, God seems to be quite a paradox, too. That is, He is Holy and Righteous and cannot look upon sin. However, God is also loving and forgiving and became a Man, Jesus, the Christ, and took our place on the cross.
Some people train for one kind of job and continue doing that as their career. I am not talking about summer jobs as a kid or one's first job as a teenager. I am talking more towards that of adults. While in college, people will train with a particular field in mind, like accounting, business management, languages, etc. After graduation, they will typically pursue that as their career. Though their work may vary over the years, their particular career field does not vary much. However, that is becoming less and less the case it seems. A lot of people may train to become an elementary school teacher but then they find work on an assembly line and that becomes their career. Or, they may major in business management but then, because of the job market, find work as a cook and that becomes their career. Others might join the military right out of high school and have one profession there. But, after retiring from the military, they get a college or masters degree in something very different and work that for the rest of their lives.
While in college, I gave my life to Christ and, about 6 months later, I felt God calling me to go to seminary and pursue a career in ministry. Although I initially resisted that idea, God won the argument and I began the process of searching for a seminary to attend. I graduated from Centre College in 1996 with a BA in German Studies and started my ministry training at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary (LPTS) that following summer.
During my time there, one of the things that was emphasized to me was the importance of ministering to a person's felt needs. At least, that is where you start ministering. For example, lets say I am ministering to a family whose pregnancy had ended in a stillborn. Due to their understanding of church and faith, they wanted their child baptized prior to being buried. As a Presbyterian, we do not believe in baptizing the dead. However, do I just outright refuse, saying that my faith forbids it, do I go against my conscience, or do I seek another way to minister to their needs? The answer would be the latter… I could either seek out a pastor who does believe in baptizing the dead, or I could sit down with them, explain my theological perspective, and talk with them about ministry and funeral options that would help them gain closure and not violate my theological convictions. This was something that was highly emphasized, the meeting the people where they were at, and then to help them in the direction that they need to go.
Well, after graduating from seminary, my first wife and I ended up moving to Colorado. We lived with her family due do many different factors. While there, I worked for a Christian radio ministry organization in the shipping and receiving department. I have to admit, I was not happy there. I was greatly frustrated that I was working a job that would not enable us to live on our own. I was very frustrated with working a job that felt like a dead-end-job. Even though I knew that I was supporting and enabling a major Christian ministry, I felt under used and totally out of place. I also felt very frustrated with having spent years training to do ministry in a church kind of setting, and not doing anything remotely like that.
So, after about a year, I joined the Army and started my Basic Training in May of 2001. It would be along and difficult journey for me. Partly because my wife, at the time, and I got a divorce. Another part was because I was entering a totally different lifestyle then what I had grown up experiencing. Instead of having lots of freedoms to come and go as I pleased, my life was suddenly very regimented. It was very different for me and took quite a while to get used to. But, adjust I did.
A few years later, after much prayer and considering my options, I felt God directing me to leave Active Duty and pursue a job in Nebraska and live near my parents. For about 6 months, I searched for a job, preferring a ministry job, but considering other options. Finally, though, I applied for a job with the Nebraska Department of Corrections for Custody Staff/Corrections Officer. Although it was a job that I had seen on many occasions, it was one that I had no interest in applying for. Since my unemployment insurance was running out, I did not see much other choice and I applied. Even though the testing and interview process seemed to go poorly (I came down with some sort of 24 hour cold on my way down to the test and interview and it went away as I returned home… Hmmmm….), I was offered a job and I accepted.
My training for the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services seemed to be a lot like that of the Army, of strict rule enforcement. Not the total picture, as I would find out later, but that was my initial impression. At least it was something familiar. But, again I found myself becoming frustrated and angry with God that I was doing anything but ministry. But, this attitude gradually changed as I worked more with other staff and inmates. Although enforcing the rules was necessary, I started finding that ministering to staff and inmates enabled me to better do my job. To minister to their felt needs, I would listen to what their needs or concerns were and find a way to address them that the rules that I worked by would allow. I now incorporate this approach to working with others as much as possible. Over the 8 years that I have worked with the Nebraska Department of Corrections (I had a break in service for over a year, but that is another conversation), I found that many of my co-workers and inmates needed someone to listen to their concerns, to be reminded that God had not forgotten them, that they were still valued as a human being, etc.
I picked 'Law and Grace' because it is a theme that most accurately describes who I am. As I go through life, after my years of training in ministry, Military Law Enforcement, Nebraska Department of Corrections, etc., it has become second nature to deal with issues that I face from both perspectives. Most of the time, my personal preference is a ministerial one. That is, I seek to understand what the problem is and how can I best address it, given the rules that I have to work within. But, there are times where that is not appropriate. When dealing with an out-of-control inmate or suspect, the chances of me being able to minister to them are very slim and I am more likely to rely on my Law Enforcement training. Sometimes, to prevent myself or someone else from being injured or killed, force has to be used to stop someone else. Unfortunately, that is totally natural in a fallen world. But, there are times where, even when I have to enforce laws and regulations, I still strive to show some grace. For example, while I might have to do some corrective counseling or write a misconduct report, I still try to help the person that I am correcting to see both the inappropriate actions as well as what they have done right. It's a challenge, and easier said then done on many occasions.
In reality, we all live in a world where we can deal with things from a 'law' standpoint or from a 'grace' standpoint. Although, if you ask me, it is usually a combination of both, with more of an emphasis on one or the other. Very rarely do I see people dealing with a situation from a purely grace or law perspective. In seeking to address situations from either a 'law' or from a 'grace' perspective at the same time, I find myself better able to deal with most situations effectively. It isn't easy, and sometimes it is more draining to seek to approach situations from both perspectives instead of either one or another. However, I have personally found that, when seek to find a balance between dealing with something with both 'law' and 'grace,' I have more options to choose from. And, many times the person that I am dealing with is more open to what I have to say when I use such an approach. Though it takes a lot more mental energy and time to consider my options, it becomes more of a win-win situation for everyone.
As I continue on my journey looking at life from these two different lenses, I hope to help others learn to do so. Perhaps, when more people can better look at life from these two lenses, there can be more reconciliation and, by God's Grace, a better world around us.
Some people train for one kind of job and continue doing that as their career. I am not talking about summer jobs as a kid or one's first job as a teenager. I am talking more towards that of adults. While in college, people will train with a particular field in mind, like accounting, business management, languages, etc. After graduation, they will typically pursue that as their career. Though their work may vary over the years, their particular career field does not vary much. However, that is becoming less and less the case it seems. A lot of people may train to become an elementary school teacher but then they find work on an assembly line and that becomes their career. Or, they may major in business management but then, because of the job market, find work as a cook and that becomes their career. Others might join the military right out of high school and have one profession there. But, after retiring from the military, they get a college or masters degree in something very different and work that for the rest of their lives.
While in college, I gave my life to Christ and, about 6 months later, I felt God calling me to go to seminary and pursue a career in ministry. Although I initially resisted that idea, God won the argument and I began the process of searching for a seminary to attend. I graduated from Centre College in 1996 with a BA in German Studies and started my ministry training at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary (LPTS) that following summer.
During my time there, one of the things that was emphasized to me was the importance of ministering to a person's felt needs. At least, that is where you start ministering. For example, lets say I am ministering to a family whose pregnancy had ended in a stillborn. Due to their understanding of church and faith, they wanted their child baptized prior to being buried. As a Presbyterian, we do not believe in baptizing the dead. However, do I just outright refuse, saying that my faith forbids it, do I go against my conscience, or do I seek another way to minister to their needs? The answer would be the latter… I could either seek out a pastor who does believe in baptizing the dead, or I could sit down with them, explain my theological perspective, and talk with them about ministry and funeral options that would help them gain closure and not violate my theological convictions. This was something that was highly emphasized, the meeting the people where they were at, and then to help them in the direction that they need to go.
Well, after graduating from seminary, my first wife and I ended up moving to Colorado. We lived with her family due do many different factors. While there, I worked for a Christian radio ministry organization in the shipping and receiving department. I have to admit, I was not happy there. I was greatly frustrated that I was working a job that would not enable us to live on our own. I was very frustrated with working a job that felt like a dead-end-job. Even though I knew that I was supporting and enabling a major Christian ministry, I felt under used and totally out of place. I also felt very frustrated with having spent years training to do ministry in a church kind of setting, and not doing anything remotely like that.
So, after about a year, I joined the Army and started my Basic Training in May of 2001. It would be along and difficult journey for me. Partly because my wife, at the time, and I got a divorce. Another part was because I was entering a totally different lifestyle then what I had grown up experiencing. Instead of having lots of freedoms to come and go as I pleased, my life was suddenly very regimented. It was very different for me and took quite a while to get used to. But, adjust I did.
A few years later, after much prayer and considering my options, I felt God directing me to leave Active Duty and pursue a job in Nebraska and live near my parents. For about 6 months, I searched for a job, preferring a ministry job, but considering other options. Finally, though, I applied for a job with the Nebraska Department of Corrections for Custody Staff/Corrections Officer. Although it was a job that I had seen on many occasions, it was one that I had no interest in applying for. Since my unemployment insurance was running out, I did not see much other choice and I applied. Even though the testing and interview process seemed to go poorly (I came down with some sort of 24 hour cold on my way down to the test and interview and it went away as I returned home… Hmmmm….), I was offered a job and I accepted.
My training for the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services seemed to be a lot like that of the Army, of strict rule enforcement. Not the total picture, as I would find out later, but that was my initial impression. At least it was something familiar. But, again I found myself becoming frustrated and angry with God that I was doing anything but ministry. But, this attitude gradually changed as I worked more with other staff and inmates. Although enforcing the rules was necessary, I started finding that ministering to staff and inmates enabled me to better do my job. To minister to their felt needs, I would listen to what their needs or concerns were and find a way to address them that the rules that I worked by would allow. I now incorporate this approach to working with others as much as possible. Over the 8 years that I have worked with the Nebraska Department of Corrections (I had a break in service for over a year, but that is another conversation), I found that many of my co-workers and inmates needed someone to listen to their concerns, to be reminded that God had not forgotten them, that they were still valued as a human being, etc.
I picked 'Law and Grace' because it is a theme that most accurately describes who I am. As I go through life, after my years of training in ministry, Military Law Enforcement, Nebraska Department of Corrections, etc., it has become second nature to deal with issues that I face from both perspectives. Most of the time, my personal preference is a ministerial one. That is, I seek to understand what the problem is and how can I best address it, given the rules that I have to work within. But, there are times where that is not appropriate. When dealing with an out-of-control inmate or suspect, the chances of me being able to minister to them are very slim and I am more likely to rely on my Law Enforcement training. Sometimes, to prevent myself or someone else from being injured or killed, force has to be used to stop someone else. Unfortunately, that is totally natural in a fallen world. But, there are times where, even when I have to enforce laws and regulations, I still strive to show some grace. For example, while I might have to do some corrective counseling or write a misconduct report, I still try to help the person that I am correcting to see both the inappropriate actions as well as what they have done right. It's a challenge, and easier said then done on many occasions.
In reality, we all live in a world where we can deal with things from a 'law' standpoint or from a 'grace' standpoint. Although, if you ask me, it is usually a combination of both, with more of an emphasis on one or the other. Very rarely do I see people dealing with a situation from a purely grace or law perspective. In seeking to address situations from either a 'law' or from a 'grace' perspective at the same time, I find myself better able to deal with most situations effectively. It isn't easy, and sometimes it is more draining to seek to approach situations from both perspectives instead of either one or another. However, I have personally found that, when seek to find a balance between dealing with something with both 'law' and 'grace,' I have more options to choose from. And, many times the person that I am dealing with is more open to what I have to say when I use such an approach. Though it takes a lot more mental energy and time to consider my options, it becomes more of a win-win situation for everyone.
As I continue on my journey looking at life from these two different lenses, I hope to help others learn to do so. Perhaps, when more people can better look at life from these two lenses, there can be more reconciliation and, by God's Grace, a better world around us.
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