My name is Miguel, and I am a humble pastor from León, Nicaragua. Growing up, I always felt a call to serve God’s people, and after years of study and prayer, I became a pastor at our small local church. Life in Nicaragua has never been easy, but through faith, my family and I have found strength and community.
Under the current government, led by Daniel Ortega, my congregation and I faced increasing persecution. We strived to stand firm in our faith, even as our gatherings were monitored and some of my fellow pastors were taken away. One evening, as I was preparing for a church service, the police arrived and arrested me. I was accused of inciting unrest simply for preaching the Gospel.
Thrown into a small, dark cell in the prison of El Chipote, I felt fear like never before. The walls seemed to close in, and the cries of other prisoners echoed constantly. During those first days, I prayed for strength, but my heart felt heavy. "Lord, why have you brought me here?" I asked repeatedly.
One night, amidst despair, a fellow prisoner approached me. He was a young man named Carlos, who had been imprisoned for protesting against the government. Carlos had heard about my faith and said, "Miguel, can you tell me about your Jesus?" In that small, damp cell, I realized that God had a purpose for me, even in that forsaken place.
As I shared the Gospel with Carlos, something transformed within me. I understood the depth of Christ’s love and sacrifice in a way I never had before. “Jesus is with us, even here in this prison, Carlos,” I assured him. Slowly, our cell turned into a place of worship. We prayed together, and soon, other inmates joined us.
The weeks turned to months, but each day, Jesus’ presence felt more real. My imprisonment became a testimony of God’s faithfulness. When I was finally released, I left with a new perspective on life. "I entered those gates bound by fear, but I leave free in Christ," I declared as I embraced my family once more.
Back in León, my church had grown despite the persecution. They welcomed me with open arms, and together, we continue to serve our community. The threats have not disappeared, but our faith strengthens us.
Jesus transformed my captivity into freedom. "I will never leave you nor forsake you," He promised, and He kept His word. I am more devoted to spreading His love and hope, knowing firsthand that darkness cannot hide His light.
