I'm not condoning what sex offenders do, by any means. However, my first thought upon hearing these ads was that I should look up the sex offenders in my neighborhood and take them some candy. Perhaps that might be dangerous, but it also is looming out there as an overlooked opportunity to minister to some downtrodden folks.
Then, tonight, I was attending Stake Conference, and one of the speakers encouraged us to look for ways we can minister to those around us. I struggle to find people more deserving of kindness than those who are openly hated and rebuked. The website doesn't say what a man did to become a registered sex offender. It just lists his name, address, and description, along with a photo, if one is available.
So, what do you think? Are there crimes that are unforgivable? When a person is convicted of a crime, is there no room for repentance? I can imagine there are those who believe some folks deserve what they get. I also strongly believe that our lives are a result of the choices we make, i.e., the circumstances surrounding registered sex offenders, they brought on themselves, because of the choices they made. Most choices can't be reversed.
So, I'm going to look into what I can do to help registered sex offenders feel the Spirit and maybe even feel a little blessed and loved this upcoming holiday season. If nothing else, I intend to intently and specifically pray for them by name, asking for showers of blessings to come their way. Who will join me?
