SOCPM Newsletter | September 2023

How long, O' Lord, how long? This summer has been a challenging one for me.

I am still grieving over Michelle. Cameron was in a constant downward spiral, and then my heart attack on June 10th. I had very little motivation, if any, at times.

I stuck with my Monday through Friday Tabletalk devotion and, on occasion, would do other Bible studies. There were times I was not motivated for church either, but I know I need it for the worship and fellowship with my church family. I think I missed two Sundays. But quite often, it took God to get me there. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, using the loving care of my church family, and Biblical counseling sustained me.


I was doing good for the most part in exercise, walking 30 minutes every morning. I am watching my diet. It's been a challenge, mostly when it comes to snacking. Fruit is okay, but nuts are not so okay. Still, my cravings were still there, and not being able to satisfy them as I used to comfort me in the past when I was feeling low or anxious made my feelings more sorrowful. I knew I was still blessed in many ways, but if you ever have gone through depression, you know what I mean when I say counting your blessings helps, but the depression is still present.

As the date for my return to prison ministry was drawing near, I began to have doubts if I wanted to return. My passion was nowhere near what it was. With all the class cancellations and other challenges over the past couple of years, despite the encouragement of friends, it was God's purpose for my life (2 Timothy 1:8-9)the evil used all of it to make me seriously consider not returning.


During my season of depression, I became a mystery book and TV junkie, but God can use all things for His glory. Through my daily TV watching, I came across a Britbox series called 'Time.' a story of a college professor who is sentenced to four years after a vehicular homicide. In one scene, it's New Year's Eve, and the inmates confined to their calls at the stroke of midnight bang their tin cups against their cell doors.

I can't explain it, but it reminded me of my guys. There was more behind what I was feeling, but in tears, it was when I repented of my selfish and woe-to-me mindset and cried out, 'I'm going back.'

God told me the best cure for my depression is my continued servanthood in prison ministry, sharing the Good News, the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad. Proverbs 12:25

With a joyful heart I retruned to Dixon on August 31st and Sheridan on September 1st

To Him be the glory in ALL things and Him alone,

Scott Kalas
Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries

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