We have been anxiously awaiting the outcome of Walter's (pseudonym) parole hearing. One of us received word from a Victorville Kairos volunteer that the hearing was conducted the first week of July. The board reviewed Walter's case and heard testimony from prison staff, outside ministry persons, family and neighbors of Walter in Palmdale. At the end of the day the board ruled that Walter should serve another 15 years, although they would reconsider this decision in 2 years. They commended Walter for his behavior while incarcerated, including his programming, working, and staying out of trouble. It simply wasn't Walter's time.
Yesterday I received a letter from Walter in which he thanked everyone for the wonderful letters that were sent by the Kairos community. So that you may all understand Walter's spiritual state under theses circumstances, here is an excerpt from his letter:
Through all of this I am still resting in the peace of God. I do have an opportunity to be seen every 2 years by the parole board and I do serve a God of miracles who can change their minds as He sees fit. Miracles happen in His time and not on our own schedule. When we least expect them, that is when a miracle will come about. J and L (Walter's wife and daughter) have been stronger than I have with this decision and continue to stand by me with their love and support. I praise God for them in my life just as I do for each and every one of my brothers and sisters who have been praying for me. I will continue serving Him, one day at a time. Kairos here at Victorville will continue to be a large part of my focus. We will be having Kairos #2 in November. Please give my love to everyone at Lompoc, Inside and Outside Team alike. Tell them to trust in the Lord with all their heart, stand strong in the faith and stand together as one in the Lord!"
Walter's letter served to inspire my faith for Kairos 24. You have all read about the challenges our ministry has faced in recent times but through Walter we are called to "Trust in the Lord" and to "Stand strong in the Faith" and most importantly to "Stand together as one in the Lord." There can be no better encouragement, especially coming from a man who has served this ministry tirelessly for years. Kairos time is upon us. It starts this Saturday at 8:30am at Christ the King Church in Santa Barbara.
Let us hold Walter, J and L in our prayers as they deal with the decision of the parole board and let us set our sights on the work of God that will take place during Kairos 24. May the great peace of Jesus be with each and every one of you.