Mike and I have finally completed the process to get fully approved by the State of California to have access to the incarcerated youth at the California Youth Authority facility in Norwalk. We met with a couple of staff members this afternoon to finalize our mentoring schedule and we will be entering the facility tomorrow evening at 6:00 pm to meet our "group" and start establishing relationships and sharing the love of Jesus. I cannot tell you how blessed we are by this opportunity.
We have been inside the facility, and know what the surroundings are like - dark, dreary and drab. We have met many of the young men on the unit where we will be spending time. They are every race, and are between 14 and 20, more or less. Some will be released soon, others have life sentences and will be moved from the Youth Authority to the State Penitentiary after turning 18. It is draining to be there. It is heart wrenching to hear their stories. But it is glorious to be able to share the love and hope of Jesus with these young men, some of whom have never heard the gospel before.
I am asking for your prayer for tomorrow. Prayer that their hearts would be open to the presence of the Lord, and His servants. Prayer for Mike and I to be completely surrendered to God when we enter. Prayer that God would be glorified by every conversation and relationship that is established while we are there.
I know that I will need prayer to be able to connect with these young men, but keep my boundaries. I already know that I can get too attached sometimes. I will need God's strength and discernment as I walk through this opportunity being taught and led by our mighty God.
I will be sending out these messages the day before we go into the facility. And then sending another message the morning after to share God's work, and prayer requests for the young men.
I treasure your prayers and your friendship.
In Jesus powerful love,
Susie
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