wee hours

WEE HOURS

My eye mourneth by reason of affliction: Lord I have called daily upon Thee, I have stretched out my hands unto Thee.

Psalm 88:9

It was the third night in a row that I awoke with a feeling of dread. So I quickly got down on my knees in the darkness of my prison cell, and I prayed.

I know I have been going through a prolonged season of inner conflict and deep soul-searching. These feelings, therefore, are a part of this period.

My heart has been heavy over many things. The attacks from the adversary have been intense. And I find myself having to echo the words of King David, who said, “What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee.” (Psalm 56:3)

Then, later this morning, after I had finished my work, I sat with a friend in the dayroom of my building where we read from the Bible.

Fortunately we had the whole area to ourselves as most of the prisoners were either at their work assignments or attending classes. I am part of the small work crew who stays in the housing unit during the daytime.

He and I spent about thirty minutes talking, praying, and reading. He was able to give me good input and counsel. Then, after lunch, I went to the chapel to attend our weekly prayer meeting.

It was good for me to spend some time on my knees, with friends, and before God.

David Berkowitz

July 12, 2005