Dear Friends -
Grace and peace in the glorious name of Jesus Christ , our Lord and Savior . It ’ s only by His amazing grace that I am able to play a role in such a magnificent story .
I ’ ve been privileged to lead 513FREE since its inception in 2007 . In the short span of nine years , our team has consistently lived in the center of God breathed adventure , growth and miracles . As we embark on what will be a decade of ministry , undeniably , all of our greatest expectations have been exceeded , and our best laid plans continue to be rewritten by the One who ’ s truly authoring this journey .
In 2010 , God opened a door for 513FREE to minister in a prison for the first time . Since that visit to Prairie Du Chien Correctional Institution , and through much refining , God has made it very clear that in this season of ministry we are to confidently focus on boldly sharing the Gospel with the incarcerated and those at-risk .
With those words impressed on our hearts , we move forward each day willing and actively working to break the cycle of incarceration . Our efforts encompass more than just another program , they are our desire to live out the great commission by building relationships and making disciples . One of the ways we do that is by publishing a magazine written by and for inmates . Exactly one year ago , the idea of The Pen Project was born . A simple inmate request for paper copies of our sheet music eventually evolved into what you hold in your hands today .
I ’ ve been blessed beyond measure by the process that has led us to where we are at today . Each day , as a team , we ’ re understanding more what it means to walk as Jesus walked . Within our ministry circle , we ’ re continually meeting amazing new people , and teaming up with organizations across the country . Through our work , we ’ ve been blessed to celebrate the great joy that is often experienced when the oppressed and forgotten discover their voice . And , as it always must be , we remain dependent on Him for provision to continue moving The Pen Project forward .
The following pages are a testimony of the transformative power of Jesus . The artwork , poetry , and writings were imparted by men and women who have found their true identity in Christ , and out of their freedom , are using their God-given gifts and talents to spread His word and multiply His Kingdom . And , in line with our mission , they afford us the opportunity to boldly share the Gospel with the incarcerated and those at-risk .
It ’ s my sincere hope that the words and images in this issue of The Pen Project will leave an eternal impact on your soul , and that they may deepen your relationship with Him .
Jesus is Lord ,
Jesse Hamble , Director
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