From Mike:
As usual, we never know what plans are in store for us when we go to Norwalk. We arrived a little early, excited we had a guest with us, we had the pre-approvals in place, we had a copy of them with us, everything was ready. BUT...when we got there, the guard didn't think our pre-approval was correct because it said "with Melanie Washington". So then he called the lieutenant, and then the lieutenant called the unit, where the unit guy finally allowed us in. So instead of being early, we were about 15 minutes later arriving at the unit.
We got there and TWO of our kids were the only ones in the room. We asked where everyone was and they said- oh they are all taking quick showers..another delay. So then the lead unit guard came in and said, "What's going on, let me go find everyone." Within a few minutes we had about 14-15 young men, they were calm, welcomed us with their normal hugs and handshakes etc.
We got them to sit, asked them how they were doing and they gave us updates, one of our regulars is under investigation and also had a problem getting caught smoking. Kemone had already finished the book Susie had sent him a couple weeks ago, he loves to read.
So after everyone shared, we turned it over to Renee, and she sat and talked to the boys, talked about how she grew up, talked about her family, talked about Robbie, talked about what happened with Robbie. Talked about how she made choices in her life, some good and some bad, but that she KNEW for a fact that she was going to see Robbie again, she said that hope and knowledge is what keeps her going. She had a lot of pictures and they were all very interested in those. They asked her a few questions as she went along, about what her life was like as a teenager, some mentioned that they too had children at early ages. One of them appeared kind of shaken by the fact that his birth year was the same as Robbie's he seemed to feel a kinship with Renee because of it. Another was very emotional because he had lost a relative to a heart problem. They were as quiet as I have ever seen them. Renee asked if they had any questions and we were all surprised they didn't.
We had our prayer circle and most of them prayed for Robbie in heaven, and that he was doing well. They also prayed for Renee's brother John. They prayed for her family, and were all grateful that she was with us. After prayer, they all wanted to hug her, wanted to say something to her, they love having the word of God and the stories of others who come in. Many of them asked if she was coming to the Mardi Gras in March, they have such limited visitation they are always looking for more.
The love that Renee shared with them about God and what he has done in her life was wonderful, and they were all blessed by it. As always I am sure that last night went exactly like God wanted it to!
From Susie:
There were many obstacles on the way to prison last night. My arthritis was screaming all day and I hoped to have the strength and energy to go. Renee missed the freeway onramp on her way to our house and was still only a couple of minutes late. We arrived at the prison a few minutes earlier than usual and then BAM... the guard didn't want to let Renee in. I had overlooked a simple statement on the approval that said she would be entering with Melanie Washington - the founder of the organization through which we volunteer. The date was right, the time was right, the unit was right, Renee's name was right - but this one detail wasn't spot on correct. We probably waited about 20 minutes, and then God opened the door - in we went.
Kyle and Louis, the twins, were the only ones there when we arrived. It was nice to have a couple of moments with just them. The "group" was gathered within a few minutes and Renee started sharing her story. I watched their faces as they listened to her openly share the details of her life and her love for God. They were SO respectful to her last night! Stephen couldn't sit still, as usual, but overall they were captivated. They especially enjoyed her pictures, and couldn't wait to connect with her individually when she was finished.
I loved watching the boys take it all in, but I also loved seeing Renee share her love for God and her family. What a testimony to the strength, courage and perseverance that God provides. I fully expect them to pepper us with questions on the next visit - she gave them so much to think about. We look forward to hearing how God spoke to them through her.
All three of us received lots of hugs upon arrival - and again before we left. But when K'Maal came to tell me goodbye, he whispered in my ear, "Bye, Moms" and his hug lingered for a bit. I have to admit, I didn't want to let go either. It never occurred to me that one of them might call me mom.
As I've said before, our goal when we visit the prison is to share the love of Jesus - simply by being present and caring about them. As usual, God has taken what we expected - and given us MORE in return.
Thank you for your prayers... it was a beautiful evening, as always.
Susie and Mike
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Prayer Requests
Pray for me for strength, guidance and wisdom. Pray for my family cause there's a lot going on and for my dad and cause he's fighting his third strike.
- Scott
I am having a problem/question how is God's take on homosexuality because I don't feel I can believe in someone who doesn't except one of my family members because my family comes before anything even religion. That's really been rattaling my brain. Because I went to a gay pride parade to support my sister and the were holding signs saying "Jesus loves everyone except gays" and one of them was my old gym coach. It's just been buggin me.
- Devon
Pray for my grandma and my sun and I want to pray for my mom and for my gran.
- Kyle
Can you pray for my family and friends and Renee's brother and her loved ones. Bring ____ to the sick and hungry people for power and knowledge, wisdom.
- Thank you
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