Former Prisoner Commits to Serving God
Release No: 09-38
By Noel Hwande
Jul. 23— YAOUNDE, Cameroon: Bringing the Good News to prison inmates who have lost all hope is one of Lutheran Hour Ministries (LHM)-Cameroon's most effective ministry outreach. One of these prisoners is named Mbakop, and he was in such despair that when LHM staff were first introduced to him, the prison guards described him as an "unrepentant prisoner who always claims his innocence." It was revealed that Mbakop was convicted for misappropriation of funds, and was subsequently serving a ten-month prison term.
One day, a fellow inmate and graduate of the Equipping the Saints (ETS) evangelism program, shared a message based on Psalm 102:19-20 which reads: "The LORD looked down from his sanctuary on high, from heaven he viewed the earth, to hear the groans of the prisoners and release those condemned to death."
Mbakop would later say that verse changed his outlook on life because nobody believed his innocence, but he now realized that God knew the truth and would eventually vindicate him. He wanted to know more about God's Word so he joined a group that LHM staff established within the prison to study the Bible and share devotions and prayer.
Then, about a month later, something unexpected happened. Mbakop was released from prison, on appeal, due to lack of evidence to fully substantiate the charges. He was overwhelmed with joy and thanked God that he had finally been vindicated.
Today, Mbakop is a free man and he recently paid a visit to the LHM-Cameroon ministry center to thank the staff for introducing him to Jesus Christ. He also asked to be a volunteer and help bring the Gospel to prisoners, and former prisoners as well.
"We welcome Mbakop to our team of volunteers," LHM-Cameroon director, Samuel Frouisou. "And I ask our brothers and sisters in Christ to pray for him as he longs to serve Christ through his personal testimony."
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