The email notice said someone had signed my web site's guest book. As I clicked on the mouse to view what had been written, I was reflecting on the events of the day.  I am part of our Church's Jail Ministry team, and had just returned from a visit with the ladies at the County Jail. 

"I hope I go to hell."  

The words jumped out at me from the entry left in my guest book, and my heart skipped a beat. I felt an instant chill, as I viewed a mental picture of Satan, head thrown back, laughing with glee.  I could visualize him gloatingly saying, "Gotcha".

 The subject I had chosen to speak on to the inmates today?  "HELL!"

As I followed the link to the visitor's web site I thought, "What kind of person would say they want to go to Hell?"  I'm not sure what I expected to find on that site...Devil Worshippers? A Witches Coven?  Maybe just some ignorant, belligerent, overgrown brat? 

I was surprised at the well designed site, and as I read the Bios of my visitor and his friends, I realized that what I had found was a group of talented, sensitive, creative, intelligent 16-18 year olds....who seemed to be filled with way too much hurt and anger for someone so young.

Nick, Scott, and friends......it is not my intention to "push my beliefs" on you.  I just want you to know that since reading your guest book entry, I think of you every day.  That I truly wish good lives for you, filled with joy and gladness.  That you have touched my heart, and l cannot help but pray that someone will touch yours in such a way that you will come to know Christ....personally and up-close.

I also hope that you will CLICK HERE to find out what I believe about Hell, before you decide you want to go there.  It was only intended for the ladies in jail, but I have decided to put it on-line.  Who knows....perhaps it will benefit someone else who is thinking....
"I hope I go to hell."

HELL...Jail Ministry Message...PLEASE READ BEFORE YOU GO

The following poem was written by Scott, and shared here with his permission.