A Fatal Drunk Driving Accident
In 1992, Joe Avila faced the darkest moment of his life when he killed Amy Wall while driving drunk. Overcome with guilt and facing charges of second-degree murder, Joe found himself in a situation that seemed beyond redemption. He felt as though he deserved the harshest punishment. Amy's brother, Derek, was convinced that Joe was a monster deserving of the electric chair.
Prison Ministry Transformation Story
While incarcerated, Joe embarked on a six-month sobriety program and turned to Jesus for solace and transformation. He changed his plea to guilty, acknowledging his wrongdoing. Joe credits God with placing the right people in his path who taught him about forgiveness and reconciliation. Through the Angel Tree program, he maintained a connection with his daughters, nurturing their relationship despite the barriers.
Victim Family Forgives Perpetrator
Upon his release, Joe sought the daunting task of meeting Amy's family. In an unexpected turn of grace, Amy's father, Rick, told Joe, "I know what you've been doing for a long time now, even when you were in prison, and I approve of it." In an astonishing act of forgiveness, Rick embraced Joe, saying, "I love you, Joe." Joe later reflected, "I killed his daughter, and he was able to give me a hug and say, 'I love you.' And that is a true testament to the miracle of reconciliation and why Christ did die on the cross."
Life Transformed Through God's Grace
Joe's life became a testimony of God's power to heal and restore. He became an elder in his church and, alongside his wife, coordinates the Angel Tree program. His journey from despair to redemption is a powerful reminder that through Jesus, even the deepest wounds can be healed, and lives can be transformed.
