In the quiet, somber halls of Bindura Prison, where the weight of confinement hangs heavy, a glimmer of hope shone brightly one day, like a beacon in the darkness. The CCAP Men’s Guild from Bindura Church of Central Africa Presbyterian Bindura brought a message of redemption and love to the inmates, reminding them that even in the depths of despair, God’s love can transform, heal, and set free. As the team’s heartfelt songs echoed through the prison walls, tears of joy mingled with the sorrow of forgotten dreams, and the air was filled with the sweet fragrance of hope and renewal.
The delegation, led by Baba Mbewe, Secretary for Men’s Guild, was warmly received by inmates, who were visibly moved by the team’s ministry. The inmates’ eyes, once dulled by the monotony of prison life, sparkled with a newfound sense of purpose, as if the very chains of their confinement had been momentarily lifted.
As the team sang powerful songs in Nyanja, the inmates’ voices joined in, filling the prison with a sense of joy and purpose. The music was a powerful reminder that God’s love and care can bring transformation and renewal to all people, regardless of their circumstances.
Elder Muonjeza, who led the team in sharing the word of God, delivered a stirring message of hope, drawing parallels between the Israelites’ bondage in Egypt and the inmates’ current situation. “You are not forgotten, you are not forsaken,” he declared, reading from Deuteronomy 7:8 (The Message Bible), “It wasn’t because you were the most impressive that God zeroed in on you and carted you off, believe me! You were the runt of the litter! It was because God loved you, because he wanted to keep the promise he made to your ancestors.”
Elder Muonjeza’s words were a compelling call to the inmates, reminding them that God is a God of redemption, who remembers His people in their struggles and sets them free. “Just as God sent Moses to rescue the Israelites, He wants to send His Son, Jesus Christ, to bring redemption and new life to all who put their faith in Him,” he said.
The team leader challenged the inmates to accept Jesus, citing the story of Paul and Silas, who worshipped God even in custody (Acts 16:25-34, The Message Bible). “Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God that night, and the other prisoners were listening. Suddenly, there was an earthquake that shook the foundations of the jail. All the doors flew open, and the chains of every prisoner fell off!”
The visit echoed Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 25:36 (The Message Bible), “I was shivering and you gave me clothes, I was sick and you stopped to visit, I was in prison and you came to me.” The CCAP Men’s Guild’s visit was a tangible demonstration of Christ’s love and care for the inmates, reminding them that they are not forgotten and that God is always present, even in the most challenging circumstances.
One of the inmates reflected on the changing role of prisons in Zimbabwe, saying, “Prisons have transformed from being centres of punishment, but the focus now is on rehabilitation and reintegration. It’s refreshing to see faith-based organisations like churches coming on board to offer spiritual and moral guidance, aiming to produce well-rounded individuals who are socially, morally, and economically empowered. Churches supporting the spiritual pillar is crucial in helping us become productive citizens, ready to reintegrate into society.”
This shift in approach is in line with the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services’ (ZPCS) mandate to rehabilitate and reintegrate offenders into society. According to the ZPCS, rehabilitation programs focus on addressing the underlying causes of crime, such as poverty, lack of education, and substance abuse, to reduce recidivism rates.
The inmate’s comments highlight the importance of holistic rehabilitation, which encompasses spiritual, emotional, and psychological healing. “The spiritual support we receive from churches like CCAP is vital in helping us cope with the challenges of incarceration and preparing us for life after prison,” he said.
Mr. Sangano, a member of the delegation, described the team’s visit as “a profoundly moving experience” that underscored the power of faith to transform lives. “The love and compassion shown by the Men’s Guild was palpable, and it was clear that their mission was driven by a deep sense of purpose and conviction,” he said.
A Gesture of Kindness
As a token of their love and support, the CCAP Men’s Guild delegation made a thoughtful donation of washing soap to the inmates, a practical gesture that brought smiles to their faces. The inmates were overwhelmed with gratitude, expressing heartfelt thanks for this small but significant act of kindness. For many, this simple gift would bring a touch of dignity and comfort to their daily lives, reminding them that they are not forgotten.
As the team prepared to conclude their visit, Mr. Sangano hinted at a forthcoming follow-up, promising that the December visit would be a festive celebration of music, hope, and redemption, featuring a full band and a Christmas party for the inmates.
As the team concluded their visit, the inmates were visibly moved, some wiping away tears, others nodding in agreement. The CCAP Men’s Guild’s visit was a powerful reminder that God’s love and care are always present, and that His message of hope and redemption can bring transformation to all people, regardless of their circumstances.
But as we reflect on the scenes of joy and devotion behind the prison walls, we are confronted with a sobering reality: while these men and women are physically incarcerated, many of us who walk free are prisoners of a different kind – bound by the chains of sin, shackled by the restrictions of the devil. We are reminded that the greatest prison is not one of brick and mortar, but of the heart.
As we gaze upon these inmates, singing hymns and praising God in the midst of their confinement, we are challenged to examine our own priorities. We who are blessed with the freedom to worship, to pray, and to serve God without restriction – what excuses do we have for neglecting our spiritual lives? Are we too busy, too distracted, or too comfortable to surrender to the Lord?
The inmates of Bindura Prison have much to teach us. In their physical imprisonment, they have found spiritual liberation. In their restricted circumstances, they have discovered a boundless joy and a deep sense of purpose. And in their worship, they have found a freedom that transcends the confines of their cells.
As Baba Mbewe, leader of the delegation, said, “The visit is part of our outreach program, aimed at spreading the word of God to those who need it most.” But perhaps the greatest beneficiaries of this outreach are not the inmates, but we who are reminded of our own need for redemption, our own need for a Savior who can break the chains of sin and set us free. The question echoes in the corridors of Bindura Prison, and it echoes in our own hearts: will we, who are free to walk, to worship, and to serve, choose to remain prisoners of the devil, or will w
