Clarisa got saved about four years ago.  She and Jose have two daughters, one “his” and the other “theirs” (this is a common problem here in Colombia).  Around the first week of December, she applied for a new job.  One of the requirements for them to sign was that she present a “pasado judicial” (an official police clearance).  When she went to request it, she showed up on the computer as a fugitive from justice.  Over seven years ago she was accused of shop lifting (something that she denies doing).  When she came up for trial (unbeknown to her), since she had moved from her previous residence, she was tried as a fugitive from justice and was given the highest sentence—forty three months without parole!  She was immediately arrested and began serving her sentence in the largest female jail in the country.  One of our pastors went to visit her last December 31.  Upon his arrival, he was approached by two inmates who asked him to explain to them how they could be forgiven of their sins and assured of heaven.  Since the visiting hours start at 10:00 am and no one can leave until 2:00 pm, Hugo Mario had a long time to share the gospel with these two ladies.  They wept and laughed for joy as they confessed their sins and accepted Christ as their Savior.

Just a few days before Clarisa was arrested, she prayed in her ladies group that God would do what he had to do to bring order to her home and use her for his glory.  Although it has been a trying experience, it has also been a great opportunity for her to witness, (she is so thankful for the training that she had received in our Bible Academy).  Jose, who is prone to impulsiveness and would like to resolve this situation at any cost (including lying and bribing), has had some very practical lessons in honesty and uprightness.  Discipleship is not telling people what to do; it is walking beside them and showing them how to do it!  Hugo, who has walked close beside Jose, has many opportunities to show him how a believer responds to the struggles of life.  Please pray for Jose and Clarisa.

Craig Lingo, Colombia