A New Kind of Normal
Between a Rock and a Grace Place
YouTube
When I Lay My Isaac Down
Update on Jason Kent
22 Sep
Posted by Carol
Many of you have asked for an update on our son. On October 25, 2010, Jason will mark his 11th year of incarceration. We have exhausted all of our appeals at both the state and federal levels. Last summer Jason’s paperwork requesting a clemency hearing made it to the top of the pile (a three year process). After reviewing the case, the Florida Parole Commission recommended that Jason’s case receive a waiver hearing before the clemency aides. A waiver is needed before a case can be heard before the governor and his cabinet at a clemency hearing. Clemency does not usually mean that an inmate will immediately walk in freedom. In our case, we were asking for a review of the case, with the hope that Jason would be given an eventual end-of-sentence date, instead of life without the possibility of parole. In the State of Florida, a life sentence means the rest of your natural life will be spent in prison. Our son did a terrible thing, believing he was protecting his two stepdaughters from the potential of abuse, and we know there must be a punishment.
Gene and I were given an hour to present Jason’s case in front of the clemency aides. They asked lots of questions and requested that we gather letters from inmates who had been positively impacted by Jason’s teaching, mentorship, and encouragement, along with letters from the parents and spouses of inmates who observed his influence on the lives of their incarcerated loved ones. It took us two months to gather the materials and letters that were requested and we compiled them into eight two-inch thick notebooks and sent them to Tallahassee for distribution. Three days after they arrived we received word that the attorney to the governor of the state had denied a clemency hearing for Jason. It will be five years before J.P. is allowed to file clemency paperwork again.
It was discouraging, to say the least, and I wish I could tell you we immediately thanked God for what he was teaching us through this exhausting, expensive, and discouraging process. I sobbed and Gene comforted me through his own tears. The next day was a visitation day and Gene gave Jason the news. When I arrived at the prison a couple of hours later, I wept as I greeted my son.
J.P. was totally at peace as he said, “Mom and Dad, if God chooses to allow me to walk in freedom in this lifetime, it won’t be because I received the favor of well-connected politicians and attorneys. It will be because God moved in the hearts of decision makers in a miraculous way. I am content with that. My heart hurts for the family of the deceased and I hope that someday they will be able to forgive me.”
Jason is currently taking his 8th group of inmates through Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University course. He is in the Gavel Club, which is a group of inmates who are working on their public speaking skills. He has reached the 4th level of the Evangelism Explosion program, and he has a group of mighty prayer warriors who fast and pray on behalf of the needs of each other and their families.
Some of you have asked what you can do to help. The workbooks needed for the Financial Peace class are $17 each, so if you are able to donate on our website that amount will cover one inmate’s course material. Additional gifts help us to provide DVD curriculum for chapel programs, inexpensive greeting cards for inmates to send to their families, and Boxes of Hope that are sent to wives and moms of inmates.
Most of all, we are grateful for your prayers—for us and for Jason and for inmates all over the country who are trying to be ambassadors for Christ in a dark place. Thank you for caring. For regular updates on the ministry Gene and I are involved in, please become a friend on Facebook at: Carol Kent, or follow us on twitter.
Be encouraged with these words: “Friends when life gets really difficult, don’t jump to the conclusion that God isn’t on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.” 1 Peter 4:12-13 (MSG)
Comments
Parole
OK here I go again my son has been on Parole before for 2 years now he goes for 3 years. Last time was really a hard place we would have Police Officers at our door any time day or night to check on him.Only could go out for an hour a week and make it back right on time or else. He had to call in when leaving and when at home. He will be wearing a monitor on his leg. Wow to look forward to a life like this can I do it not with out the help of GOD no way else. My husband and I have Unconditional love for our 36 year old son. We will not let him be thown away we want him with all our heart. He has been through so much and it has been a scarey roller coaster ride for us all. I have cried out to JESUS and I to gave my Isaac up to the LORD. You see it comes to a point when you no longer can handle or deal with all the pain and heart ache. And since I have did this GOD has blessed me with deep Peace. My son comes home now in Sept and we are so looking forward to seeing him will be 3 years gone. His 16 year old daughter does not want to have him in her life she is mad at him and holds a deep crudge. His son 15 wants to start a realationship with him. SO LORD willing he will get back on the right road and put all his Faith in GOD alone. SO my advice to you all is never not be there for your child just step back and give youre Isaac to GOD. Starting a new life and in CHRIST JESUS we will be. A friend in CHRIST JESUS Emma
Thank you
hi carol just started reading your ebook download on a new kind of normal book that you wrote I am going through a simular path in my life and not knowing which way to turn. Mmy world is surely turned upside down and it will never be the same the only one I feel I can really trust is myLord Jesus Christ to help me through this I dont know if it will be possible for you to get theis message I just wanted to tell you that you will be in my prayers every day I am not sure what is going to happen to my son but I feel the pain and there is not a day that goes by that I believe things will never be the same in my life or my families life. I know god has allowed this to happen for a reason but the unknown is so scary I am so afraid I ask that you pray for me I have not always be the faithful christian that I should have been and have waisted years in my life that I realize I should have spent serving him. I can not change the past and can onlyn go forward I just pray that god will intervein and show mercy I pray for that every day but only he knows at this point. I just wanted u to know that you are not alone and you will be in my thoughts and prayers I just pray that god will please help us all and that some how I dont know how but he may be glorified and others weather they be christians or not may turn there lives over to or lord and savior. Again I just wanted to try to contact you some how. I also was born and raised in Fremont Michigan live about 20 miles from there mow if you want to contact me by email my address is lindalou824@gmail.com I am here. Love in christ Susan
Your son.
I have seen hardened,unrepentant criminals go free. I can't understand this situation with your son. One southern governor just pardoned 3 1st degree murderers. I read your book but I had to make myself finish it. I am in so much pain for you and your family. I wept through the whole book. Mostly I only hear from Christians whose children are walking closely with the Lord and they are so proud of them. I do not share that experience. Our children are not in prison, but they walk far from the Lord. My son has just started listening to the New Testament with an app on his phone, so I hope it makes a difference. His children have suffered from their dysfunctional home. My daughter has a lot of problems also. Your son is living for Christ in prison! What an amazing man. I pray he gets out very, very soon. Tomorrow would not be soon enough for me. Please know that I love you and will be praying for you. I know you might disagree, but I think it would be easier to lose a child in death than to live with such horrible injustice and uncertainty. At least with death we make a horrible, but final adjustment. By the way, you are a way better person than I am.
Thank you for telling your story so honestly.
Dear Carol,
I am re-reading "When I Lay My Isaac Down" and "A New Kind Of Normal" for the second time. I have shared your books with so many people who have needed encouragement in very dark & difficult times. Thanks for sharing your story so honestly.
Mary Lou
Entiat Washington
Praying for your family.
I turned on the radio while going to the store the other night and heard part of your testimony on Focus On The Family. I didn't want to get out of the car because i was so caught up in the story. As soon as I got home I went to Focus On The Family website and downloaded it and listened to it. I'm just amazed at how much God loves and cares for us and how much he cares for us even when we do things that hurts him. I'm praying for Jason and believing that if it's in God's plan for his life that he'll receive his freedom through clemency. I've got thought in the back of my mind that perhaps Jason is in God's will for his life. He's doing great work in the prison and being "just like Jesus" to someone else that needs their wounds washed and care for, just like he needed when he was first incarcerated. That part of the story really touched me. I pray God will continue to use him and that his plan for Jason will be carried out. God bless you and your family and thank you for sharing Joson's story with us.
God Bless..
Ron
I heard ur story on faith
I heard ur story on faith radio Saturday for the 1st time.I am so proud of what ur son is doing in prison.May God bless u and Jason. Ur faith is remarkable. I too have 1 son and know how u must hurt. I am so sorry for what happened to your family. God is always with u. I hope to one day hear u speak.
april and th girls
Have they gone on with their lives ? Aar Jaso and April still married? Did she not have a clue to the events tohat lead up to Jason killing her ex!
Carol and Gene
I know this may sound crazy and it may not seem like it, but GOD has chosen your son Jason to be his representative like John the Baptist! God knew what would happen, it didn't surprise him when the attorney said no. He must still have work for Jason to do and I know that it can be a hard thing to deal with but you have to trust God and communicates with him. John the Baptist and even Joespeh were sent to prison and these wer great me of faith. Think about it like this, Jason is on a business trip accumalting a staggering amount of wealth for his kingdom in Heaven. GOD bless you and thank you Carol for your work too, because youare the one spreading the word out here to people like me, so thanks again and God bless!
Hi Carol, I had not heard
Hi Carol,
I had not heard your story till yesterday when I was driving in my car, listening to family life radio. I was moved by your testimony. I relate to your story in many ways. To April's story. I am 26 years old, single mom, I got marry at 15. My life has not been easy. I have been look down by people at my church or by others because of my past. The first time I attended a church few years back, I was told I was not able to participate in the youth classes because I was divorced and had a daughter. I was hurt emotionally but it gave me strenght to keep looking for God, to show others what God can do in a person's life. I kept looking for God and found him through His Word, through prayer. Few tragedies has happen in my life, my only sister passed away and a year ago I was involved in a fatal car accident where a man was killed by a driver, and the driver was me. I was not charged because I was going the speed limit and the man was jaywalking in the street at night entoxicated. It was a turning point in my life, I cryed out to God like never before and my relationship with Him grew in an intimate way like never before. I have seen God leading me towards His Purpose for my life. I have joy in my heart like never before. Currently I am finishing my BA, involved actively since the last 3 years as a youth leader, raising my beautiful daughter who is one of my greates joys=) and I have the confidence that whatever happens in my life, God has already been there. My self confidence has boost up like never before and I know that in God's eye I am worth more than Diamonds, I am worth it all, He gave his only Son Jesus to die for me and his presence is always with me, his Holy Spirit, the love of my life. In God's time, I will meet that man He has for me and together we will serve the Lord.
Thank you and as His word says everything works for good for those who love the Lord and for those who according to his purposes are called.
Pain
Dear Carol, Gene and Jason,
I heard the first part of your story on FLN yesterday and it has disturbed me so much that I can not get it out of my mind. I am so glad that Jason has the understanding of Who really holds the keys to his jail cell. That has helped me as I have been hurting so much for all of you with a deep pain in my heart. I can't imagine living thru that. I went thru it in a miniscule way when my my son was 14. For 3 years a neighbor tried to have him put away on a PINS petition. And even though he was a teenager, he did nothing to deserve it other than they hated his father. Each time we thought it was over, something else would occur to fire the situation. I went for three years striving to trust God but my chin had brush burns and I never was tempted to hate so much. I felt if I know a "mob member" I would have paid to have them killed. It scared me and I spent hours on my knees until I felt a "snap" and I know the enemy left. My son turned 16 at that point and he would have been tried as an adult so the court finally sent a parole officer to question the neighbors and school. Everyone gave him glowing reports so the charges were dropped with the neighbor who was influential in the community furious and threatening to go further. But then it ended. But your pain is so much deeper and scarier. I wonder how April is. Your son gave his life for those little girls and as horrible the way he did it, he sacrificed everything for them.
You will be in my prayers. I have to find a way to get heal my pain for you. Sincerely, Christine Stenson
Focus on the Family interview, re-aired February 2012
Carol, my husband and I listened to this repeat of your family's story on Focus on the Family yesterday and today. Our hearts were so touched, so humbled. We cannot possibly understand what it is to be in your shoes. The redeeming part of Jason's incarceration is the way God has used him in a prison setting and the heartfelt testimony you have shared with others.
There are no words to offer that would be adequate. May God's sustaining grace continue to uphold you, Gene and Jason, April and the children. There is nothing impossible with God, nothing is too hard for Him, with Him ALL things are possible. Psalm 146:5-10.
Carol and Bob
El Paso, TX
Prayer
Gene and Carol,
I listened to your story on Focus On The Family at 4:30 AM yesterday and today and was compelled to write you, pray for you all, and purchase your book Laying My Isaac Down. After 11 years, I cannot think of anything to say that you probably have not heard already, and I certainly do not want to bombard you with cliches (spelling). I would, however, like to know what became of April and her daughters and how I can specifically, effectively and fervently pray for them. May the Lord continue to bless you all, making His face to shine upon you, and continue to show you His amazing grace.
Focus On The Family
Hi Carol - I just heard your story the last two days on Focus On The Family. I wish you, your husband and son well with the appeals - my heart aches for all of you. It sounds like your son is doing a great job bringing the word of God to other inmates. Hopefully those inmates will pass along what they have learned from your son to others. I also found it interesting on your website that he is involved in the Dave Ramsey financial teaching to inmates. I am a big fan of Mr. Ramsey. Well take care - keep the faith and God Bless!
Heard your story
Heard your story on focus on the family today, and it truly touched my heart. Even though i havent experienced the same thing you have, the pain through your words really broke my heart and your words that they are a lot of hurting people out there is absolutely true, we see people going about their business each day, but we have no idea what is going on in their lives, and a lot of times they are carrying a lot of hurt.
I've see the documentary with you son and the victim's father and i was happy to see that through his pain he was able to forgive your son, and am amazed that you dont blame April as it would be so easy to do so.
Even though we dont understand God's methods and plans, we know that he works it all out for our good, (those who love Him and who called according to His purpose) I'm also happy to see that your son is doing alot with his life and is at peace. I know that it will all work out according to God's will, and I prayer that some day he will be able to join you on the outside. Trusting God in all seasons of life is so difficult, but it's the only way we can survive the trials of life. God Bless you and your family, may His grace and peace continue to pour into your hearts and may you always feel surrounded by His wonderful love.
My prayer is that I will not lose trust in Him, whatever life throws at me.
Blessings
Counseling in prison
Hi Carol, I heard your program on Focus on the Family today and can't wait to listen to part two and read your books. I am a mental health counselor in a Florida prison and your program reminds me of how important my job is for some who may be in prison for the first time or someone who has no support system on the outside. Many of the inmates I counsel say that I am the one ray of sunshine in an otherwise dark environment and I strive to be God's light everyday in here. I'm glad your son is doing well and is also a light to others. Sometimes I forget that God has planted me here for His purpose and He has done the same with others. I have had the opportunity to meet with many inmates who's life has been changed by God while they have been in prison and they so desperately need the encouragement of other prisoners and people on the outside. Thanks for your books and for also being a light to not only your son, but to other inmates as well. God bless you and your family.
Jason
In Jason's story, why do I see similarities with bible figures such as Joseph, David, Jesus and Paul? Blessed be Jason for being given such a wonderful and powerful ministry. No good parents want to lose their children to any kind of unfortunate situation as you are experiencing. You are doing all the right human things as it is not given to us to know exactly the good doings of our mighty God.
Dear Carol & Gene, I can't help to think how blessed you are to have Jason not in his grave, but in prison fulfilling God's call; not given to worldly sinful ways, but immersed in christian ministry; not in any other line of duties committing atrocities around the world, but growing deeper in God's wisdom and light.
Blessed are you to have a living son, not a dead one! Blessed is Jason to be entrusted with God's work where he is! How I envy him! Pray for me so that I stop envying people like Jason. It's been in my heart for so long, to start slowly a small prison ministry such as visiting inmates who have nobody to visit them, but I never got started on it. I am still procrastinating with a google of excuses such as taking care of my family, full-time work, etc, etc. Please pray for me so that I can pray for direction and strength to do whatever the Lord wants me to do. I want to be like Jason, doing God's work too.
You have a good son! He loves the Lord that's why he is alive and working for the Lord. I love you guys!
Bernadette
Boston, MA
God bless you, my sister in Christ
Carol,
I am reading your book---Between a Rock and a Grace Place. First of all, I want to say "thank you". I also have a son in prison for life. Although, my son did get life with parole. He went in when he was 25 years old and is now 37. His parole date as of now is set for 2039. I pray that God will release him from those walls before then. I want him to get the chance to show his family and the world that he is a very good man and that God has really made a change in him. Also, I want another chance to hold my son (baby) again as a free man. He is really struggling right now. I want to order the set of books that you have written about your journey through all of this...not only your journey, but your sons and your husbands as well. I want to have them sent to my son. There has been so much in this book that has helped me and I really think there would be many things also that would help my son. As a mother, I feel your pain. I am walking this road, too. It seems that every morning when I wake, my heart is torn apart all over again. The pain never stops. I will be praying for you and your family. Again, I will say "God Bless You".
Janell Brown
simplymee@bellsouth.net
A New Kind of Normal
Jason, Carol and Gene,
I am enjoying the book A New Kind of Normal. It was on the library new book shelf. I didn't need a book at the moment. My daughters and I visit the library once a week and I really wasn't looking for anything. But some recent events lead me be curious about the book. I am enjoying it very much, in fact, I can hardly put it down. I also sent a copy of the book so someone I love.
Thank you so much just for being you.
I believe Providence lead me to your book, Carol. Looking at this web site, the smiles on your faces are amazing!
You do not tell your story in a fairy tale way, but in a very real way. I write to a woman in prison on occasion,
her life is such an inspiration to me.
Thank you again,
Jenny
Faith
My heart goes out to you and you're family. God answers all prayers in one way or another and its so nice to know that you have faith in him. I used to work at bob evans in port huron and I waited on you and your husband numerous times. I remember the two of you always being so nice and sweet. God bless you all, sincerely Rose.
Petition for Release
Hi Kent family,
I know how it feels to be terrorized by an exhusband, he does not want you to be happy with someone else because that makes them look bad and the green monster of jealousy comes out to torment you. I think that Jason was at the end of his rope, he tried to get help from the justice system and they failed to protect his daughters that he loved and wanted to protect. I think that the girls and their mother should have been a part of his defense because he did it for them. Why didn't they testify for him? I think that the Govenor should commute his sentence and give him amnesty. You should put a petition to the Govenor on your website. All of the states should have the same laws, he is not a habitual criminal but a victim of circumstance. I think that his daughters think that he is their hero. There is so much child abuse in our country, he has my sympathy and prayers.
Set up
I am watching your sons story on tv as I write this.I have seen it a few times.I wanted to write and tell you how I felt about it each time I saw it but I wasn't sure if you would see it.this time I decided to take a chance and tell u anyway,in the hopes of you seeing this.I think that woman set him up to do what he did.I think she filled his head with lies until he couldn't take it anymore.I hope the justice system will wake up and realize that and your son can be free.please tell him I said to keep hanging on and praying and good luck : )
Set Up
I agree, even though Jason committed a wrong act, his wife should have reported the so-called abuse.
I am not sure if the real father abused his children, I doubt it.
His wife knew what she was doing, and had to have known Jason was stalking the ex-husband to find evidence of his of his so-called molestations.
Spouses can be very good at setting up their spouse by sex, and playing the victim.
If I was Jason's parents I would work with the father of the ex-husband who was murdered, and see if he could write a letter to help Jason get free. I do not trust the wife at all. I think she is a liar, and she is responsible for her ex to get murdered.
God Bless you Mr&Mrs Kent you are in prayers.
Also do you have a signature letter people can sign to free Jason ?
Also, look up other cases where the mother sets her lover up to kill the father of her children, the more cases you find the better chance of geting Jason help, send in the case numbers where this occurred.
There is one in New York, the mother is prison for having her lover kill her ex. this will help your case.
Set up totally agree!!!
That woman is to blame for destroying the life and future of a very promising man. She not only cause so much pain and anguish for JP's parents, she also caused the death of another person. She is treacherous, vile, and ungrateful. I reviewed the interview MSNBC did with JP and found that after "pretending" to visit him religiously in his prison cell, she just opted to move out of state with her daughter. Ingrate!!!! Murder is unforgivable but someone has got to be blamed and I am sure that April demon is the one who fed JP's head with all her lies. When she was cross-examined by the prosecutor, she never mentioned in her deposition that she was raped, how come she brought it up when she was asked on the witness stand claiming she forgot about it in the first instance, only insane people forget that they were raped!
God's Promises.
My Son is currently incarcerated in a county Jail. He struggles Drugs and Alcohol but most of all needs the Savior. I know that God is working through this and all things work together for good to those that love the Lord. I ask for your prayers for my son Christopher that God would open his heart and mind to the saving Grace of Jesus Christ! I have claimed a verse for Christopher Isaiah 49:25 I will contend with the one who contends with you and I will save your children!!! I love the and I part! Casting it all at Jesus' feet.
Nancy Vreeland nanjer27@yahoo.com
Hello,Gene & Carol,Just want
Hello,Gene & Carol,Just want to let you no that GOD is in the Miracle working.I was in prison 25years ago and GOD worked a Miracle for me i know he can do it for your Son.I was facing 5 to 99years and And they ended up giving me 7years in the texas Pen.In 3and a half month the Lord set me free from prison.Faith moves mountains and opens prison doors.I am not a great writer just trying to write a few words of incouragement..
GOD BLESS... Evangelist Noel & Mary Lou Melendez
Jason Keep the Faith Praying for you..
Laying down Isaacs...
Dear Carol, I have just finished your book, When I Lay My Issac Down. It's marked with a purple pencil in all the places where your God spoke to me through your words. I have not yet found a person who has had the same kind of intensive losses that we have had to speak to face to face, so your words were like a balm. My family has been through... well, "the ringer" doesn't quiet paint the picture. In 2005 I sought God for counsel as to how to live life with 3 kids growing up and not "needing" me anymore. I was given the charge to pray for them and I took it seriously...I think I am working on prayer journals # 8,9 and 10. But things got worse in a couple of years later when we realized that our only son was dealing with homosexual issues...the prayer warrior in me took to her knees and I have prayed with ferociousness and expectancy as I began to see God throw off the things that seemed to hold my son down. In 2008 things started to come apart. Here is a brief synopsis of our situation: My eldest daughter had 3 miscarriages in 10 months, 2 failed adoptions since then loosing about 75,000 dollars in the process. My 2nd daughter decided God was not finding her a husband fast enough so she decided she would do it on her own. She married a divorcee with 2 kids and no history of any faith training at all. He cheated on her and now they are trying to patch things up. They have lived with us for 3 long years for financial reasons and watching them go through this struggle has been excruciating. She found out he was cheating on her about 6 months after they were married and shortly before she planned to leave him, she found out she was pregnant. So I then had one daughter who couldn't get pregnant and one who didn't want the baby she was carrying. About 6 months ago that daughter got pregnant again (her first baby was just short of 2 months old) and she lost the baby at 18 weeks. We held the baby but watched her die. It has been a long, long road only to be informed 4 weeks ago that my son has decided that God isn't taking away his same sex attractions so he is going to call himself gay and live that way. And he doesn't care what God thinks about it. I am destroyed. My husband uses the word mortified. Like you said in your book, this is not the life I had planned. For them or for me. I fight depression every day. I continue to be in the Word, go to our small group, join our church family in worship and go to my ladies Bible study but I'm just putting one foot in front of the other most days. I gave your book to my husband and then I plan to read it again. Thank you so much for putting it in words on paper. While reading it I often thought that I could never put what I'm feeling and thinking on paper for anyone to make sense out of. You did and I appreciate it.
So as not to leave things totally depressed, I do believe that God is weaving a tapestry. He sees the top side and I only see the bottom... all the knots and crossed threads of different colors. I know there is more than what I see. I also know there may not be a ram in the thicket and right now...it all hurts. I want to stop the tears. I want healing in myself and in my kids. I know you are busy but I know you know of what I speak. Please pray for me. Thank you...
Dear Carol and Gene, I was
Dear Carol and Gene,
I was able to get a hold of your story/CD through Family Talk. I've listened to it over and over again, when I lay myself to sleep and on the road and I can't help but cry before the Lord for the grace and strength that He's given you each day. I cannot imagine the pain and suffering you're going through. I've shared your testimony to my sisters and we are all amazed at how God has turned what the enemy meant for harm for Jason for Jason's good. Oh how He has used this dark moments of your life, this valley to shine forth light in the dark with how God is using Jason in the prison cell. What a great big mission for him to give glory to His name. God is using Jason to bring salvation to the inmates--what could be more powerful than that. It is all part of God's sovereign plan!
God is a miracle working God. While I pray for the family of the deceased,
I am also going through very difficult times--seasons. I believe God for the healing and restoration of my marriage, the healing of my 12-year old son--mind, body and soul, and for financial breakthrough. God is good all the time and His grace is sufficient for us.
We love you and pray for you always,
Liv Johns
books
Hi Carol first let me say that God puts you on my heart so that i remember to pray for you and
Jason. your husband too daddies love there sons. I meet you two years ago at a ladies retreat in W.V..i love to read so iv read all your books.Keep writing.So sorry to hear about Jason but Gods timing is perfect. This past weekend I spent the weekend in Mich at a ladies retreat. when the speaker started talking i felt like i knew her from somewhere. I sorta did it was your sister Jennie. you sound and look so much alike.i can tell your the crazy one must be the hair.your new books wear dropped off at her house that morning so i was able to buy some copies for friends and myself.I love it the story are so heart warming and funny. you and your family are always in my prays.in Christ love Shelly
Words Cannot Express
Dear Ms. Carol,
Words cannot express my gratitude for you baring your soul, and putting your pain on paper for such a time as this. I am not married, and have no children, but I so understand what it means to let go of my own Isaac's. Thank you so very much for giving me a new prospective and understanding of the story of Abraham and Isaac. I will pray for Jason and the rest of your family. And I will pray, that the Lord will send Aaron's in your life, to hold you and your husband up, when your arms get tired!
Sealed with love,
Shawn
My husband is serving life
My husband was court-martialed in July of this year and sentenced to life in prison. I am about half way through your book, When I Lay my Isaac Down. I can only read a couple pages at a time because my heart can only take so much. This has been a long journey for my family, and the pain you express at times is so real to me. We have a 2 yr old and 5 yr old. My heart is broken yet I'm clinging to God to carry us through this. I have felt God's presence like never before. I know he is here. And I know he cares deeply for my family. My husband was on a combat mission in Afghanistan when an Afghan national grabbed his weapon and my husband reacted and shot him. We never thought he'd be locked away for this but here we are. Thank you for your words, they are helping me so much. God Bless you.
George Fox University
Carol,
you came to my school and spoke about your son, and the journey you and your husband went through. I didn't realize how much hurt I had held onto for my own brother, who has been dealing with legal issues for a while now. I tried to hold back tears many times during your talk. I just wanted say thank you for coming to our school, and I am praying for your family and for your son..
Dear Jesus,
thank you for Carol and her husband Gene. Wow, what a painful thing they have gone through, but God you are greater than the greatest pain. Lord Jesus, thank you for the trials we go through that require us to put our full trust in you. Jesus, I ask that as Carol and Gene's son is released from prison (as He will be in Jesus name), his heart would continue to thirst for you. Thank you for who he is, and for putting your desires in his heart. Give Jason peace as he sleep tonight, and give his parents peace as well. Keep him and the other inmates/brother's in Christ safe tonight. In the name of Jesus Christ we pray together.
Amen.
God bless your family, as you have blessed so many others. Love you guys!
-Willy D. (George Fox University)
My husband was court martial
My husband was court martial in July 2011 and charged with premeditated murder of an afghan national while on a combat mission in Afghanistan last year. He was sentenced with life in prison. He pleaded not guilty of premeditation because he acted in self defense. But nonetheless he sits in jail now. I have just started reading your book "When I lay my Isaac down". The emotions and despair you express in the beginning of your book are as if I'm reading my own journal. I pray I will find insight and encouragement in your book. I love God but feel so many emotions right now. Thank you for your book. Please pray for my family as I pray for Gods mercy. We have 2 daughters, a 5 year old and 2 year old.
From another military wife
I know I have never met you and probably never will. My heart was burdened by your story and I want to let you know that I am praying for your family.
support group
I'd like to see an ongoing, reach out at any moment, support group for parents dealing with these issues. Many of us find ourselves in the midst of this trauma, never expecting it. And the loneliness for the incarcerated ones, is even more painful. How do we establish such support?
Jesus is in control
Hi Carol, One day recently, I heard you speaking with Dr. Dobson on my car radio as I was driving to an appointment. I was captivated with what you spoke about your son and the love that pours forth and I wept as I listened. You are such wonderful witnesses for the Lord. Years ago when my husband, who is white and has a doctorate in education and many years of teaching in college, found himself out of work. The ex-chairman at that time was a sick man and black balled my husband each time anyone inquired about my husband (over 200 times). So he did not get another teaching job quickly. He was out of a professional job for two years. This severely affected our immediate family. My husband had been raised in Wisconsin and worked his way through college by working for the highway department. While looking for a job, he found himself applying for a job opening in our now southern state. It was driving a tractor to cut grass along county roads with some trustee prisoners. He was not given a gun to work as a guard. His days were no different than the prisoners. Through that time he met a black prisoner named Tom who was in for life. My husband gently encouraged Tom back to the Lord and gave him a Bible. Over the years my husband (plus our family sometimes) visited Tom and felt his discouragement each time the parol board denied him parol. None of Tom's family ever visited him nor wrote to him. We continued to visit Tom each time he was transferred from one prison to another. After several years, Tom called one day before Thanksgiving and said the Board would grant him parol if we'd take him in. I answered that call and immediately told him we would. I had prayed bout this matter before that call, so I was prepared with my answer. Our home at that time had a perfect set up for having him and Tom lived with us for three months before he got permission to move out on his own into a small place he was able to obtain. He lived as a strong Christian on the outside for seven years and then went to be with the Lord due to lung cancer. In the meantime, my husband got another teaching job and is retired now. It's obvious to us that the Lord used these events to help Tom. It's so hard to understand why difficult things happen in our lives, but I know you see that Jason is truly being an important instrument where he is at this time. I hurt with you and join you in prayer for Jason to be out. But we all release Jason to do God's work. What an honor that he is strong enough to go through that ministry! Thank you for serving the Lord so powerfully. Love in Christ, Mary
I just finished reading your
I just finished reading your book When I Lay My Isaac Down, with our church book club. I was deeply touched by your journey, and how evident through it all how every since aspect, large or small, of that journey was magnified and became significantly sharper to you: the presence of the Lord, the value of family and friends, the bends in the road, the present purpose of Jason's life in prison, etc. The story of Jesus and the paralytic and the story behind the 'Stretcher Bearers' took on strong, new meaning for me! I greatly look forward to discussing your book and experience over breakfast this Saturday with the book club. Be encouraged.
Connie Parker
Phoenix, Arizona
your family's story
Dearest Carol, I just got done watching your family's story on the Investgation Discovery Channel and I have to sit here with you and your family in prayer. My heart breaks for you and your husband but also for your son. I cannot even begin to understand the pain you must endure daily. I will continue to keep you and your family in prayer.
Your friend in Christ,
Nikki Portillo
I have just read your book
I have just read your book "When I Lay My Isaac Down". It was very powerful and reminded me of the pain we experienced when in 2003, our "Isaac", addicted to drugs and alcohol, died. We found her in her apartment. The constant ache of what might have been, never goes away. I pray that Jason will be favored to be released but in the meantime, I pray that God will continue to use him where he is. Thank you for sharing your heart with us in this book. I recognize "Isaacs" in my life everyday - my will and my way. Since I read your book, I have asked myself more, "Is this an Isaac I need to lay down so that I might continuously rest in the perfect will of God.
Update of Jason
Thank you for being a voice for so many who are in prison & do not have anyone that can speak for them.I believe in God's forgiveness & I believe that his will be done.Its encouraging to me& others that Jason has taken his situation & using it for the Lord.God is not done with him yet.Praise his sweet name today & just keep trusting him. One of my favorite verses when I am having a bad day is......The JOY of the LORD is my STRENGTH ! God Bless each of you!
Jason
"Be assured that the past is forgiven and the future is in God's Hands." Hebrews says twice that God forgives our sins and remembers then no more. He walks clean in God's sight.
I know Jason well; we were born on the same day. Moreover, I write him frequently; he is kind enough to reply forthwith.
"Love knows no limit to its endurance, no ends to its trust, no fading of its hope; it can outlast anything. It is, in fact, the one thing that still stands after all else has fallen." By your actions, you have shown such love toward Jason. What wonderful parents you are!
Never surrender, never lost heart, reject all negative statements about your son.
Smile.
Jimmy --------
When I lay My Isaac Down
I just finished reading your book. I have never read a more powerful, profound, thought-provoking book in my life. I wept through much of the book. I felt deep regret for always "holding my Isaac to my chest and proclaiming that God will not get my Isaac". I am working on that. Because of you. I have a new-found respect (so to speak) and thought process of Incarcerated men and women. I lay my head down at night and include Jason, and you and Gene and April and those grand babies in my prayers. Everyone should read this book and help learn how to "Lay thier Isaac down".
Thank you for the lessons I have learned.
My son.
My heart aches for you because my son has been in prison for 23 years. He is one of the sweetest son's anyone could have. I love him dearley. We are going to try for his clemency in September. My granddaughter is wanting my attention so I will check back with you later. God Bless you and your family.
Mary Jane Mamie
kmjm@sbcglobal.net
I was blessed to read about Jason
Dear Carol,
I am so blessed by your son's life and even though it was brought about by tragic circumstances. God's uses even our mistakes to bring about great things and his life is going to bring about great miracles in other's. His reward is great in heaven and he has a mansion in heaven.
Prayers for JP
Dear Carol,
I just read your book, When I Lay My Isaac Down. I cried for you and the suffering you have endured over all these years. I will pray for your son and his next clemency hearing.
I gave When I lay my Isaac
I gave When I lay my Isaac down to a friend of mine whose son is in the same situation. He is serving
a life sentence in Florida. I just wanted you to know what a blessing it has been, although difficult
for them because it hits so very close to home. Thank you for pouring your heart into this work While
we would like to have them near us, God is using them where He wants them for now.
FAITH HOPE & LOVE
Hi Carol,
I am truly inspired by you and hope to be the caliber of mother you are to Jason. I know a child will choose whether or not to allow the parent in when they are going through difficult times. Many times soldiers take the burden on 100%. They know you are there but do not want to burden you. Your story will help me in the future so thanks for sharing. Your faith, grace and love for your son is remarkable. You also raised a pretty remarkable son. Jason is an angel that was simply misguided by another. A test of life. He cared for those girls like his own more than many biological fathers. Many times we trust the untrustworthy and as you said Jason accepted his punishment like the man you raised him to be. You made no excuses nor were you in blind denial of for his actions in attempt to get him off without punishment. You are now his angel. Continue to be proud of that and I pray that you never grow tireless in your efforts to bring him home. As you know the justice system is not always fair in that others do much worse and serve less time. He is still one of our nation’s heroes and deserves a second chance in life. I pray that Jason continues to serve God in a place that needs the Lord's presence. I forget the saying that says a life is as important in the number of lives it touches but that is Jason's purpose for now. I will pray for your continued strength, hope and encouragement and for his release. Thanks for the update.
Many, many Blessings,
Your friend in Texas and in Christ
Kimberly
Dear CArol, I heard of your
Dear CArol, I heard of your story quite by accident on the Focus on the Family website. I will order your book.
My story is similar, but different from yours. Through a remarkable set of coincidences, I began to write to a young inmate whose art came into my store. What started out as a cool, business relationship, blossomed into a beautiful friendship. Months later I learned that the young man was sentenced to life without parole at the age of 15! He is now 27 years old.
He is not my son. But he has been abandoned by his own parents and siblings who no longer write. Over time, as we wrote back and forth more and more, a beautiful person began to emerge in his letters---a young man who in no way matches his crime---a crime to this day, he says he did not commit. When my husband and I first decided to make the 5 hour trip to visit him in prison, we were struck by his sweet, peaceful, loving spirit. Incredibly, he accepts God's will in all his suffering and describes himself as a happy person---even where he is!
If I had known the pain I would ultimately feel bringing this young man into our family's hearts, I might have shrunk from it, and from what I can only assume is a "heavenly assignment." But I feel God's peace despite the pain of growing to love someone in his circumstances. A pain I am sure you are familiar with.
God Bless you and your family!
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY, CAROL
Thinking of you this morning and praying for you. I can only imagine how difficult a day Mother's Day can be for you and other moms with children in prison. I have a dear friend with a daughter in prison also. I bless you in the name of Jesus and pray that you are comforted. You are a wonderful woman, a wonderful mom, blessed of God with a plan and a purpose. Jason is a blessed man to have you in his life: a praying, godly, faithful, loving mom. Love you, Nancy
I first read your book...when
I first read your book...when I lay my Isssace down...a few years ago ,and listened to you speak...needless to say I was deeply moved by your experience and used your thoughts and grace to deal with my own issues,which at the time seemed hard...God is so good...and yet last August my robust God fearing warrior of a son who was 33 was taken to heaven leaving 4 children (one if whom is special needs)and a lovely wife...he had glioblastoma...His grace through his trial was amazing...and I remembered your thoughts and words ....and revisited your book ...and still found it to be very helpful...Thank you for your life,your vision and your son's grace.....I will pray for you and your family...you are very special to me....with love Holly ...Grand Rapids Mi.
pray for you
hey Carol, this is Tresa....I helped out at your table when you spoke at our women's meeting at Griffin First Assembly of God....I have prayed for you and your family many times...I'm glad to see your spirits are lifted....and wanted to thank you again for sending two of your books on the road of you "Laying your Isaac down" and your "new" normal...I have read those books at least 4 times each...I continue to pray not only for your son but also for you and Gene....you both touched my life in so many ways on the day of the women conference....and continue to give me hope even when I feel I have none!!!
lots of love,
Tresa