Thankfulness...

Greetings!

We arrived a little early and it was interesting to see how they were spending their time when we got there - some watching TV, some playing video games, some on a computer, one was even ironing his pants.

Our group got started and we had some new faces.  Mike's message tonight was based on a certain motorcycle police officer who we love who had an accident last week.  Mike shared about God's protection, God's provision and how we can plan all we want, but it's God who directs our steps.   Mike talked about God being the only giver of life... it gets very quiet during these conversations.  There weren't many questions tonight, but they were very attentive. 

We asked all of them what they are thankful for.  It's hard for some of them to answer, no matter what we ask.  They were very curious about our plans for Thanksgiving - where are we going, who's cooking, what are you cooking, who will be there.  We asked all of them if they wanted turkey or ham... that was kind of fun.

We talked with them about achieving "A" status.  They have to have 90 days without any violence or issues.  We told them that they all deserve to enjoy the benefits of "A" status - more events, more responsibility, etc. 

The conversation went in many different directions tonight.  We asked who is reading their Bible - and Lamour said he's working on reading the whole Bible.  Mike asked how far he's made it so far and he talked about 1st Chronicles.  Great conversation...  I love hearing that they're spending time in God's Word.

Many of the boys are out doing other things while we are there, but they all usually return before we leave.  They ALWAYS come and join us when they return and participate in the closing prayer.    Their prayers always touch my heart.  They always say thank you for getting through another day.  They always ask for strength.   Most pray for their families.  Some ask forgiveness.  The most profound prayers always come from the young man that I least expect to be talking to God... and I'm always reminded that I have NO clue about what is really happening within these young men.

We are finally cleared to visit a few of the boys on Saturdays and Sundays.  This has taken many weeks and we are looking forward to having some one-on-one time with Kyle, Louis and Kemone.  We plan to make our first Saturday visit Thanksgiving weekend.

Thank you for your prayers.  We shared with the boys tonight that you are praying for them.  They were surprised, but  loved hearing that others think about and care about them. 

With love,
Susie and Mike


Prayer Requests:

Pray for Lewis Omar.  Pray for dad who pass away on 10-29-10 and his family.  Pray that I will be going back to Chad and to finish my program and to get out.
- Ivan

My friend lost his trial and got 9 - 15 years.  He's 15 years old and a very good kid.  I think he's on his way up here and his family's going to be in San Diego.  He's never been in trouble with the law before.  I worry about him a lot.
- Devon

Please pray for all the boys for peace and unity amongst the group.
- Susie