God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
John 3:16; Galatians 2:20.
The chaplain of a prison in America is sitting opposite an inmate in his cell. Until now this convict has never wanted to speak with the chaplain. Now he tells his shocking story, while the chaplain prays silently to God, asking Him to give him the key to the man’s heart. When the prisoner has finished, the visitor hands him a New Testament and promises to come again soon. Saying goodbye, he embraces him.
Taken aback, the man exclaims with tears in his eyes, “Does someone really love me?” – “Yes,” replies the chaplain, “There is one Person who loves you”, and tells him of God’s unfathomable love. He speaks about the one robber who was converted shortly before his death at Calvary and mentions the adulteress who was forgiven. He reads the words spoken by Jesus, that He came precisely to seek those who were lost.
The prisoner listens to the good news of God’s love in suspense. It overwhelms him and he finds faith in Jesus Christ, accepting Him as his Saviour. Not long after he testifies publicly of the love that has saved him. Through the sentence that he must serve his guilt towards society will be atoned for. For him, however, the fact that Christ has paid His debt of guilt before God is infinitely more important.