Written on 9/23/2023, from Jesup, GA Federal Prison
There was one notorious man on Jan 6 named Ray Epps. He texted his son after the riot and said, "I orchestrated it.". He was caught on video trying to persuade the crowd to storm the Capitol. He evaded indictment for over 2.5 years. Tucker Carlson did several segments on his role instigating the event. Carlson marveled that Epps had not been arrested. Someone was protecting him. Someone powerful.
Caving to political pressure, he was finally indicted for a misdemeanor disorderly conduct. This is far below his actual involvement. Yet I, who literally did nothing, said nothing, orchestrated nothing - was essentially an innocent bystander, and convicted of the very crimes Epps committed. But he walks away with a slap on the wrist.
I was taking prisoner 38 days ago. There is a great substitution that has taken place. Ray Epps is the face of Insurrection ( it's on video! ). But I have taken his place. This happened in the Bible too.
After both Pilate and Herod examined Jesus, they concluded Jesus did "nothing deserving death" (Luke 23:15 ). Barabbas "had been thrown into prison for insurrection". (Luke 23:25, ESV ). Jesus should have gone free. He was innocent. Barabbas should have been crucified. But Jesus took Barabbas' place. In the same way, I have been substituted for a real insurrectionist, namely Ray Epps.
It's my wife and children I worry about. Jennifer became a single mother overnight, without an income. Pray for her. She homeschools the children. Thank you Bruce and crew for coming to help her with the car. Send her an encouraging note and a gift. Offer to help in some way. "Remember my chains" (Colossians 4:18 )
And remember Jesus didn't just take the place of the violent criminal Barabbas. He took the place of all the common criminals too. Liars thieves, adulterers, etc. Jesus' death on the cross is sufficient to give you and me forgiveness for all the things no one yet knows but God. Place your faith in Him and live as He did.