Reggie Manuel’s powerful story. A man sentenced to 99 years in prison.

“From Prisoner to Pastor: Reggie Manuel’s Journey of Redemption”

Introduction

Welcome to “Big Love Radio/Johnny Sac Gems” where stories of darkness meet the dawn of hope. I’m your host, Joel Ashford. On today's episode, we unveil the remarkable odyssey of Reggie Manuel—a man once shackled by crime, now liberated by grace.

Act 1: The Verdict

Our tale begins in the hallowed halls of justice. Reggie, a mere 16-year-old, stands before the judge, trembling. The courtroom buzzes with tension.

• The Crime: Murder—the ultimate transgression. Reggie’s veins pulse with fear and drugs. The gavel falls, sealing his fate: 99 years in Cofield prison.
• The Prophecy: “You’ll rot behind bars,” the judge declares. The world echoes the verdict: “No parole, no escape.”

Act 2: The Kairos Encounter

But within prison’s cold embrace, Reggie stumbles upon a glimmer of hope. Kairos—a retreat where time bends, and souls awaken.

• Kairos: Reggie’s heart thunders as he hears about Jesus. John 8:36 etches itself into his soul: “Whom the Son sets free is free indeed.”
• The Daily Anthem: Reggie clings to that verse. Nine parole hearings come and go, each rejection echoing despair. But he whispers it to himself, to fellow inmates—faith unyielding hope awakening.

Act 3: The Unseen Hand

For 22 years, Reggie’s cell becomes a sanctuary. He reads the Bible, tracing the words like lifelines. And then, on the tenth parole hearing, an inexplicable twist.

• The Parole Representative: Her eyes hold secrets. “You’re being released and I don't know why,” she says. Reggie blinks. “Why?” he asks. She shrugs. “Maybe grace maybe God maybe other reasons.”
• The Exodus: Reggie steps into daylight, tears streaming. The sun kisses his face—the same sun that warmed Jesus’ tomb. He breathes freedom and looks into his future.

Act 4: The Echoing Story

Reggie’s mission unfolds beyond prison walls. His voice echoes through cell blocks, across church pews, and into hearts.

• From Nobody to Somebody: Reggie shares his tale—a sinner saved, a nobody transformed. He crisscrosses the country, proclaiming: “God redeems the lost.”
• Whom the Son set's Free: Reggie’s life verse resounds. He’s proof that even the darkest nights always have a sunrise. To God be the glory—the ultimate parole.*

Join us next time on “Big Love Radio/Johnny Sac Gems” as we explore more stories of grace, resilience, and second chances. Remember, redemption knows no prison bars.