It is a humbling experience to be brought under and used by the mighty power of God. In this instance God used Pope Paul II and Governor Mel Carnahan to bring to pass His perfect will in Darrell Mease's life.

God's thoughts are not our thoughts and our ways are not His ways (Isaiah 55:8). All things are allowed to happen according to God's good purpose and master plan.

Commuting Darrell's death sentence to life without the possibility of parole means he will still be paying for his crime. Contrary to popular opinion spending all ones natural life in prison is not an easy path.

We can be assured that God is near to those who are of a broken heart and saves those of contrite spirit (Psalms 34:18). Darrell Mease has a testimony for Christ Jesus now. He is not the same man that committed three murders. God is still in the business of saving and transforming the lives of all whom come to Him by faith.

Darrell is a walking testimony here in Potosi Correctional Center, always sharing how God has blessed and changed his life. He's been said to have jail-house religion, been called a Bible thumper and other names not repeatable. Jesus pointed out that we would know the fakers by the fruits that they produce (Matthew 7:15-16).

An inward change of heart brings about outward changes. Darrell's life before staff and inmates is of good report.

Sometimes it takes a prison experience to become hopeless and broken enough that we cry out to God for His mercy and grace. Jesus is waiting for all that labor and are heavy laden to come to Him for rest (Matthew 11:28). Listening to Karla Fay Tucker and watching her expressions within days of her execution is a powerful testimony to God's transforming power in ones life. Karla's departing to be with Christ is her gain and our loss.

The apostle Paul told the Church of Philippi that he had a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better, but he knew God's will for him has to continue preaching Christ crucified.

We can be assured that God called Karla home and He spared Darrell's life for His good purpose and pleasure. Those of us here that know and love the Lord are joyous and touched by this miracle that God has performed in Darrell's life. Miracles always focus on giving glory to God.

To Governor Carnahan I say, may you always follow God's leading in your decision-making and be not swayed by public opinion.