P R I S O N  B R E A K

I went to prison the other day and man, what an experience. I didn’t get in trouble, but voluntarily went on my free day. I was a bit frightened when we got there because I didn’t know what to expect and I didn’t know what we would be seeing or stepping into. I’ve never been to a prison and I was quick to think the worst when we got there. I thought none of the people there would want to talk to us or even want us there.

Before going through the gate, we had to give our names to the prison a week in advance. When we arrived we had a thorough identity check and pat down. After that, we went to another security check with a metal detector. This intense security system made me feel cautious and made me wonder why these people were there.

These individuals were from ages 14-25! They were so young and had been through so much. We all met in a large conference room that had heaters, I was thankful for the heat. That day was cold.

In the beginning, to clear the air, a few of us shared our stories in front of the group and it was amazing to see how well these kids resonated with our stories. One person on our squad shared what he was involved with before he came on the race and another shared how she had just recently lost her father. These stories resonated so well with some of these kids and when we went into smaller groups they didn’t feel like an outcast but felt heard, noticed, and accepted.

In our small group with 9 young men, it seemed as if they felt comfortable sharing with us why they were there. As they shared, you could see in their eyes that they wanted to change and knew what they did was wrong. Some of the men were in for stealing, murder, and another guy was in because he was framed.

As we were in our small circles, we shared with them how they are capable of change and they are still loved by someone, no matter what they did. These men are loved so much, that even at their worst there is someone fighting for them.

“The LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be still.” – Exodus 14:14

During this time, my heart was opened yet again to see how the Lord is able to work in the toughest places. These young men have so much life ahead of them. Some have even became believers and are wanting to have a relationship with the Lord. Wow! The Lord works in so many ways!

Also at the end, we gave bags to the young men and women filled with snacks. When we brought the bags, it didn’t look like we had enough, but we did!! We even had one more bag left over!

In all, after feeling afraid in the beginning, I went home with hope and compassion. Pray for these young men and women.and others who are held captive to other things in life. Pray they would have freedom and peace.

Also, keep my squad and I in prayer as we head to Africa in about a week. Also pray that I reach my financial goals for this journey, I am about $1,650 away from my November goal. I have a few weeks to reach this goal and until January 31st to be fully funded. (I do not not to go home early)

With much love,

Kelsey Yonnie