A new seat at the table: what the holidays look like for families with previously incarcerated loved ones

Spending time with loved ones is an essential part of the holidays, which can be made even more special for families who have had a family member released from prison. A once-empty seat is now full. After countless missed milestones, everyone is back together. But it isn’t possible to pick up where things left off. People grow and change, which is simply a part of life. Here’s a look at what the holidays may look like for those celebrating with previously incarcerated family members.

Celebrating their return

In Luke 15, Jesus shares the Parable of the Lost Son. He tells the story of two brothers – the youngest asked for his inheritance and left, spending his entire share along the way. After he fell on hard times, he decided to return to his family and asked not to be treated as a son, but as a hired hand. Instead, his father met him with compassion and love and held a great feast upon his return. The other brother, however, became angry because he’d stayed with his father the whole time and worked in the fields. He couldn’t understand why his brother’s return was celebrated after he’d spent all his money when he’d done everything his father asked. In response, the father said:

“‘My son,’ the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’”

For families who are celebrating the holidays with previously incarcerated individuals, the sentiment is the same. They come together to celebrate the return of their own prodigal son, rejoicing that they are home once again.

Listening and understanding

While there’s much excitement surrounding release, there are myriad other feelings as well: fear, anxiety and nervousness. Going from a regimented schedule to life on the outside can be overwhelming. From deciding where to live to finding meaningful employment, there are countless decisions to be made. It’s easy to want everything to go back to “normal.” Being considerate and understanding is key to helping a loved one transition back into society.

Giving thanks

You turned my wailing into dancing;
You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,
that my heart may sing Your praises and not be silent.
Lord my God, I will praise You forever.

Psalm 30:11-12

Not only is this a time for celebration, but a time of gratitude. Giving thanks to the One who is all-knowing, all-powerful, all-understanding is essential for families who follow Christ. Our graduates are confident in their salvation through Jesus Christ and praise Him for the work He’s done in their lives.

Moving forward

While the road ahead may seem uncertain, we can rely on Jesus to walk with us on our journey and serve as a guiding light in our lives. Our students learn to trust in Him when the going gets tough. It’s only through Him that second changes are possible!

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to Him,
and He will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:5-8

At HopeWorks, we believe everyone deserves a second chance. We work with incarcerated individuals to provide them with the tools necessary to succeed upon release. From carpentry and painting to culinary arts and more, our students learn sought-after skills to help them overcome one of the many barriers they’ll face after incarceration – finding a job. We partner with local businesses and organizations that share our belief in second chances and present our students with employment opportunities. When we work together, we can bridge the gaps in our community and help our neighbors lead meaningful lives.