Britain and his brother London had lived a hard life, growing up in the roughest parts of Chattanooga. At a young age they became involved with one of the city’s most notorious gangs, accumulating a police record early in their teens.

Looking for a Way Out

While both knew that the lives of crime and violence they were leading could be very financially lucrative, inherently they recognized that something was not right. Looking for another way to live, Britain and London entered Hope for the Inner City’s Jobs for Life program, looking to form a sustainable lifestyle. Both were very academically advanced members of the class, even though neither ever finished school.

Britain thrived while in the class, participating with his own unique flair of character, graduating with flying colors at a special ceremony on March 25. London was not as diligent in his attendance and did not end up graduating. Britain though, was set up for success and seemed to be on the brink of positive life change.

Drawn Back In

Yet the temptations of crime proved too strong, and within a week Britain and London made headlines with charges of multiple counts of kidnapping, burglary, and grand theft auto. Britain is currently awaiting trial with an extraordinarily high bail on his head, and London is still at large with the police hot on his trail. Britain will undoubtedly be convicted, and London will be caught as well, says Bill Holland, Hope for the Inner City’s director of economic development, both will serve time in prison.

When Holland said he had seen Britain's photo at a drug summit for law enforcement officials and social workers, Britain said, “I don’t want you to see me that way. I want you to see me like this,” i.e. wearing shirt and tie.

Coming Restoration

While Britain’s life has taken a tragic turn, Holland says it is encouraging to see gang leaders recognize that there is a better way; some of them truly want out. While real transformation can only take place through the leading of the Holy Spirit, Hope for the Inner City strives to be the instrument through which that change might come.

As Britain pays his debts to society, his former mentors at Hope for the Inner City are praying for him to this day. Perhaps even behind bars God can nurture that initial desire for life change that prompted him to enroll in the Jobs for Life program in the first place. It is in these darkest times that the light of God’s grace and mercy can shine the brightest.