In 2017 I wrote a blog about Brishon Bond and a conversation he had with Jim at our first meeting on racism in Indianapolis. They talked about phrases like “black lives matter” and “white privilege” and how those terms can mean different things to different people. Go to Page 6 to see the conversation.
Brishon spoke eloquently, without rancor about a black man’s view of the world. It was an important discussion, and provided insight on how things look through the eyes of a man of color. Brishon had served time in prison, so for many of us, he was kind of a rock star—an ex-offender employed by Pike Township in a role that put him in touch with the community—he was our example of the kind of success those who had once been imprisoned could have if given an adequate chance at a normal life.
UNITE INDY was behind him. All the “second chance” ministries were behind him. We used him as an example and cheered his successes. Even his name sounded like a super hero. Together we were astounded when he was arrested on numerous counts of burglary, knowing that if proven, these charges would certainly send him back to prison for many years.
Jim and I attended his arraignment in Anderson, IN with a group of supporters. It was postponed for some reason, but the judge saw us there, recognized that Brishon wasn’t alone with his attorney, and hopefully saw that whatever the charges, he is a valued and valuable human being to at least a handful of folks who took the time to drive up to support him.
I came home from the arraignment and wrote him a letter. He responded gratefully and told me he is not guilty of the charges that have been leveled against him. I pray that he is being truthful to me. I pray that he is totally exonerated and can look all those who’ve supported him over the years in the eye with the knowledge that their faith in him was not foolish, that his relationship with them was not a lie.
I wrote, reminding him that we have redemption in Jesus and only until we die to self can we truly live. I said if he wants to be a bright light in a dark world, he is in the perfect place and that he might use this time to help others and be an example of Christ before many who need to see Him.
Right now there is little news on his case. The last word was that there will be a jury trial on the Madison County charges on September 23rd. Brishon is in a waiting time. We have heard rumors that police have credible evidence against him and that he might be charged in two more Indiana counties for additional offenses. But we all must remember that he is innocent until and unless he is proven guilty and for now we can only hope and believe that he truly is innocent.
Psalm 27:14 calls for us to wait for the Lord, to be strong, and let our hearts take courage. I know that those of us in ministry are doing just that. We are praying for him, and waiting, trusting that there is justice in the name of Jesus and that all things do work together for good for those who love Him.
Peace,
Nancy
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