Sometimes we choose to make sacrifices; we tighten our belts to pay for the education of our children, or we give up a treasured day off to help a friend in need. And then there are the sacrifices in which we have no say-like "Isaac experiences" as described in Genesis 22-which are thrust upon us without warning or survival instructions.

On October 24, 1999, Gene and Carol Kent's only child, Jason P. Kent, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. An Annapolis Naval Academy graduate with an exemplary record, and a source of pride and joy to his parents, he was convicted and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Carol Kent shares their story in her newest book, When I Lay My Isaac Down. "It's discovering that the cup of sorrow is also the cup of joy as we engage ourselves in understanding the upside-down nature of the cross. By sharing my story, I can give people the opportunity to find hope, and it's the perfect way for me to process my own grief."

During this painful writing period, Carol and Gene prayerfully decided to establish a non-profit organization to positively impact prisons. Carol shares, "While God would never condone what my son did, His mercy and grace abound. Our eyes are now open to a whole new world - the prison system. We now see needs of which we weren't aware before, and doors are opening to help some of the most down-and-out people in the United States."

There are about 2000 prison in the United States and thousands of inmates in need. According to the Kents, the primary goal of Speak Up for Hope is to bring to light needs that are not currently being addressed, and to assist churches and organizations in adopting a prison to meet those needs. "Needs of prisoners and their families proliferate and no one organization can possibly meet them all," continues Carol. "Speak Up for Hope will also address prisoner family needs in a way that will compliment existing non-profit organizations."

The Kents are determined to face the future with hope, joy and faith. "It's astonishing what God can do," says Carol. "He can take a situation like ours and redeem it for His purposes. God is truly amazing!"