August 31, 2004 Changing Seasons

I always pay careful attention to the changing of the seasons, and I try to observe everything I can about nature. Now, as my summer nears its end, several more trees have begun to make their transition from verdant summer greens to the brilliant bronze colors of Autumn.

I have also been seeing more flocks of geese in the sky. They've been crisscrossing over the prison enroute to the many lakes which dot the county. I think they may be trying to get their bearings down pat before they get ready to make their long journey down south.

I addition, an ever increasing number of ordinary sparrows now seem to be using the 30' triangular courtyard outside my window as a meeting place. Beginning early in the mornings they gather in the concrete yard or on the rooftops of the buildings to start their music. I could spend hours watching them as they bounce back and forth on their little feet, then suddenly fly away as if being chased by a predator.

However, as August comes to a close, I could thank the Lord not only for the lovely displays of His creation that I could see from my window or from the prison's recreation yards, but also for a very spiritually prosperous and productive month.

For God has afforded me many opportunities to help the men and to share my testimony. But mostly I have been able to pray for them as well as give each man a word of encouragement from the Scriptures in the same way the Lord is always encouraging and strengthening me.

Nevertheless, I don't know how much longer I will be on this earth. The Lord's coming for His children could be soon. Or perhaps this won't happen for many more years? But I want to be ready should the "midnight cry" come today.

Yet while I am still on this earth I must give my heart to Christ each day, because I know I fall short in many ways. I'm still working on mortifying this lazy flesh that's so prone to sin.

And while my carnal desires will never be completely eradicated in this lifetime, through the Holy Spirit's help and His indwelling presence, I can live victoriously and not allow sin to rule in my body.

God is merciful. The Messiah's plea is for people to repent. To turn from their sins and turn to Him for forgiveness and salvation.

May I never cease from proclaiming the Gospel.

David Berkowitz

August 31, 2004