Read Time: 2 min 45 sec | Reading Level: 6th Grade

U.S. NEWS

Jailbreak in New Orleans

Five inmates are still on the run after escaping from a New Orleans, Louisiana jail early last Friday morning. 

Around 1:00 a.m., ten inmates—some facing murder charges—broke out by pulling a broken cell door off its tracks and ripping a toilet and sink out of the wall. The hole led to a loading dock. They then climbed a fence and ran across a highway into a nearby neighborhood. Jail staff didn’t notice they were gone until a headcount at 8:30 a.m.

Five inmates have been caught around the city. A jail worker was arrested for helping with the escape. Police say the worker turned off the water for the inmates so they could pull the toilet off the wall as part of their escape plan. 

Police are using live facial recognition technology to search for the inmates. This has some people worried about privacy.

__

Here’s a verse to think about when you feel like taking control of everything yourself: “A person’s heart plans his way, but the LORD determines his steps.”
Proverbs 16:9 (read full passage)

How can I model putting my hope and trust in Christ when discussing this story?
It is scary to think murderers have escaped and are on the loose.

We should be grateful for the authorities working to keep the public safe, placing themselves at risk for the sake of others. Followers of Christ can also have a deeper peace—not because nothing bad can happen to us on earth, but because regardless of what happens on earth, our eternity is secure.

What response to this story do I want to model for my children?
Loving the inmates, despite their crimes and bad decisions.

It’s easy to view them as purely sinful people and forget they’re made in God’s image. When talking about judgment day in Matthew 25, Jesus esteems the people who visit those in prison, commending them alongside people who care for the sick and clothe the needy.

The way we treat those who are often forgotten in society (like prisoners) is a reflection of our love for Him.

• Discuss as a family how God has protected you from danger. Look back on times you were afraid, and how God showed up.

• Memorize Proverbs 16:9, which says, “A person’s heart plans his way, but the LORD determines his steps.”

• Pray for everyone involved in the jail escape—police, community members, jail staff, and the inmates. Ask God to bring truth, safety, and changed hearts.

RECOMMENDED

What Our Kids Are Doing This Summer
Having faith-filled adventures with VOM’s Courageous Series*

Looking for meaningful ways to engage your kids this summer? Something a little more influential than baking soda volcanoes? Inspire them with The Voice of the Martyrs’ Courageous Series—a beautifully illustrated collection of books that illuminates the stories of faithful Christians who stood strong for Christ.

From biblical bravehearts like Stephen and Paul to historical heroes like Patrick and Valentine, each story encourages bold faith in the face of opposition.

These real-life examples will help your children grow in courage and conviction as they follow Jesus. Explore VOM’s Gifts to Inspire collection, and get your Courageous Series set today! Every purchase supports persecuted Christians worldwide.

What We’re Subscribed To
Brad’s Deals*

Yeah, you use Amazon—baby wipes, skincare stuff you saw on TikTok, that neck massager that makes you feel like a queen when you use it once a month.

But do you actually use Amazon?

Brad (yep, he’s a real guy) was a broke college student finding cheaper ways to shop and sharing them with his friends. And thus… Brad’s Deals was born. Brad’s Deals shares allll the deals you probably knew nothing about to help you maximize the value of your Prime Membership. 

Uncover 10 lesser-known Prime benefits that can transform your shopping, streaming, and saving. Subscribe with your email to get all of Brad’s deals!

Advertise with us

*sponsored

WHIPPED CREAM ON TOP

Capturing Earth's rotation...