Why I Can’t Stop Going to Prison: My Best Stories After 5 Missions
While June and July were quieter months for me in terms of podcasting, I was still blessed in June with an incredible opportunity: a night of ministry at the Bridgeport Correctional Facility. It was a chance to continue my monthly mission, which has become a deeply impactful part of my life.
A Humbling Experience
At a recent conference, Pastor Mike Singoraly said something that really made me reflect on my time doing these missions. He mentioned, “For every level of success, there must be a counterbalance of humility.” Nothing humbles you quite like meeting men in prison—men who often have a deeper, more fervent faith than many of us on the outside.
“For every level of success, there must be a counterbalance of humility.”
These men I’ve encountered at Bridgeport, are incredibly eager to learn about God. They come excited to worship, to connect, and to leave the gymnasium feeling filled up and uplifted. It’s a profound reminder of what church is truly about. Over the past five missions, these experiences have been a testament to that truth.
A Memorable June
In June, we celebrated our daughter’s baby shower and then headed to Bridgeport. I was fortunate to ride with Taila and Savannah, friends of the show. It was Taila’s first time on this mission, and it turned out to be a transformative experience for her. The message was powerful, and I left feeling spiritually renewed.
How It All Began
Let me share how I got involved in prison missions. In 2023, the Lord revealed to me that I would be traveling and speaking more. I initially thought this meant a tour, and while I did get to speak in Oklahoma early in the year, things shifted when my wife Katherine got pregnant. During this time, I had a vision of an inmate reading my book, *21 Days in Africa*. It was a bizarre experience.
Charlie Owens, who does prison ministry full-time and has a powerful testimony of redemption, entered my life around this time. He guided me on how to get involved. After navigating the extensive paperwork, I found myself in the prison, sharing the gospel, giving testimonies, and praying with the men there.
The Gift of Prophecy
One remarkable aspect of these missions is the activation of a prophetic gift. Pastor Alex Burkins once told me that I had been given the gift of prophecy, and he saw a sword coming out of my mouth for this purpose. I first experienced this gift in action when I prophesied over my best friend Olivier last year. The words and prayers I spoke were clearly from the Lord, and the recipients knew it wasn’t from me but from God.
2 Peter 1:21 reminds us, “For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”
This has been my experience, as I’ve spoken prophetic words over inmates that brought them to tears due to the Lord revealing things I could never know about them.
Sharing My Book
Lord gave me a vision of an inmate reading my book, a few months later I was in prison praying and prophesying over the men.
After a few visits, I got permission to bring my book to the prison and distribute some copies. It was incredibly special to see the impact of the book on the inmates. Many shared how much they connected with it, and one of them even joked, “Man, I can’t believe you farted on that little girl.” It was a humorous moment that highlighted the connection we had made. (You have to read it to understand that joke context, buy yours here or on Amazon)
The Commitment to Serve
Despite the flesh challenges—such as the long drive and leaving my family on Saturdays—the prison missions are always worth it. Each visit feels like a spiritual cleanse, and I return refreshed and renewed in the spirit. These experiences have softened my heart towards the brokenness of others. Many of the men in prison have hurt people because they themselves were hurt and abused. They desired a better life but lacked guidance or simply made mistakes.
Roseann Schaub from Freedom Gate Prison Mission shared a powerful perspective when she said, “God gave her a life sentence in prison… to minister the true freedom every soul longs for.” Her words resonate deeply with my own experiences.
Looking Ahead
I’m thrilled to be bringing the word this October. From preaching on a podcast to speaking in Uganda, high school locker rooms, and now prisons, the Lord has blessed my steps in ways I could never have imagined. I’m honored to glorify Him on every stage He puts me on.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. Your support means more than you know. If you would like to support me on these prison missions you can do so below!