Nick Speaks at Solano State Prison

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Solano Prison Update "That prison will never be the same!" This is how Joe Avila, Executive Director of Prison Fellowship for Northern California, summarized Nick and Life Without Limb's recent visit to Solano State Prison in Vacaville, CA.

Nick spoke to over 1,500 prisoners in three separate "yards" on the prison grounds. Nick's message was incredibly moving and the response was overwhelming. Over 300 prisoners made decisions for Christ. One prisoner was deeply moved saying, "How can I really look at my adversity when I see Nick's life. That gives me the strength even when I get out of prison not to return." Nick also touched another prisoner who said that he had always been bullied growing up because he was short. This left a chip on his shoulder and caused him to be very resentful and act out. But Nick was able to show him that through Christ he doesn't need to feel inferior. God has a divine purpose for his life.

Another prisoner had been incarcerated since he was 16. Now 40, he was so sad because he may never be able to have a relationship with a wife. Tears rolled down his eyes as he shared how it moved him when Nick spoke about his own heartache when he attended weddings and knew he'd never be able to dance with or hold a wife in his arms. Yet, when this man heard how Nick discovered a higher purpose -- indeed a higher peace -- his outlook and hope were lifted tremendously.

God's spirit was poured out mightily... and even manifested in a tangible way. When Nick arrived at the second speaking event in "yard #2", the lieutenant commented that that yard is always sunnier and hotter. Nick said he would pray for wind. As Tim Kepler, an extremely gifted contemporary Christian singer ministered in song, suddenly a whirlwind appeared right at the small stage area. The distinct column of swirling wind violently blew papers and nearly blew Nick's Bible off the table! The whirlwind then moved out and dissipated over the prisoners. Coincidence? Hardly. The wind certainly seemed like the "rushing wind" of Acts 2.

Prison Fellowship brought in over 70 volunteers from all over California to interact with the prisoners and to lead them after Nick spoke through an evangelism presentation. Avila was ecstatic about the outcome. "There were a lot of eyes from the prison administration watching us to see if this kind of event could be pulled off. This was a resounding success."

With rifle-toting guards watching from cages above and warning signs emblazoned on the walls saying "No Warning Shots", there was definitely an extreme sense of contained violence and potential danger. Yet, Nick's profound message of love softened these hardened criminals. Afterward in the hug lines, many broke down, consumed by the higher Love that Christ had demonstrated.