I know that the Lord saved me from a life headed straight to hell in a proverbial hand-basket. He has given me a new hope & a sweet future and I love to share with anyone who will listen to me what Jesus has saved me from.  15 years ago I came to prison for murder.  I was angry, scared, and full of pain, believing that God would never love me nor forgive me.  I was 15 years old, a run-away teen-age prostitute and crack addict.  I stabbed and killed an elderly woman under the influence of crack cocaine after a run that lasted several weeks.  My crime occurred on June 29, 1988.  The family of Mrs. Vasil hated me all these years and I have carried a burden of the pain that I caused them. I had never been able to overcome it.  I thought that they would always hate me and that they would never forgive me.  I fasted and prayed asking God to speak to their hearts.

On September 16, 2003, I had a parole hearing and Mrs. Vasil’s family was there. This family told me they forgave me and that they are Christians now, and they have prayed for me to become a better person.  This was only the power of God at work.  Words on a piece of paper can’t really even give true credit as to what God is doing in my life.  It is truly amazing!  No one can tell me that my God isn’t a God of restoration & new beginnings.  Praise God!!!  I’ve been saved for 10 years, but it took me 13 ½ years to accept God’s love, forgiveness and mercy for the crime that I am in prison for.  I think that is something (unforgiveness) that perhaps 90% or more that new or old Christians struggle with.  However, I am a new creature in Jesus Christ.  Praise God!  If I could shout it from the mountaintops, rooftops or anything close to that, I would.  I just have to live a life that reflects the salvation that I have in my Lord.  Greater is He that’s in me, than He that is in the world.  Amen! 

Anyways, if there is anyone who needs to hear how awesome our God is, I will reach out to them with all of the encouragement that I have inside of me.  I am also a good prayer warrior.  I am blessed to be a soldier in God’s mighty army.  I am hoping this testimony will encourage others.  And Mel, I am pray for you often & ask our Father to look out for you & your ministry.  Love in Jesus name.                              

Your sister in Christ,

Michelle Burks. (Oregon Prison)