CBN Asia’s Tanikala is known for producing powerful, real-life films that inspire and awaken faith—and Preso is no exception.
This special Holy Week tells the true story of Wendell, a man who found himself imprisoned not only by concrete walls but also by pain, regret, and the weight of his past.
Tanikala: Preso dives deep into Wendell’s life journey, from a traumatized young man who lost his way in drugs and crime to a redeemed follower of Christ who found purpose even inside prison.
But Preso is more than just a film; it’s a message for anyone who feels stuck, forgotten, or broken.
Wendell’s journey reveals four powerful truths that offer healing to the deepest wounds: Freedom, The Power of God’s Word, Hope, and Forgiveness.
1. True Freedom Comes From God
Behind bars, Wendell met a pastor who shared words that pierced through walls and sorrow:
“Even though we’re inside this prison cell, we have freedom. Even though I’m in jail, I am free,” the pastor said.
The world often tells us that freedom means doing whatever we want. But the Bible tells a different story. Real freedom is found in Christ. Freedom from sin, shame, bitterness, and fear.
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36, ESV)
2. The Word of God Has Power
One night, overwhelmed and desperate, Wendell did something simple yet life-changing—he opened the Bible.
He started reading. He didn’t understand everything, but something stirred in his heart. He became curious. He began asking the prison pastor questions. And little by little, God’s Word softened the hardened places in his soul.
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12, NIV)
God’s Word did what no lecture, punishment, or motivational talk could do, it transformed Wendell from the inside out. Once a man filled with hate and pain, he became a messenger of peace. Once an enemy of God, he became a child of God.
3. There Is Always Hope
Wendell was supposed to spend the rest of his life in prison. But miraculously, he was set free.
That alone is powerful. But the greater miracle is this: Wendell found freedom and hope even before the prison gates opened. He learned that no matter how far you’ve fallen, God can still raise you up.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11, ESV)
Even when it seemed like everyone had given up on him—his partner, his kids, even himself—God never left. And hope became real again.
4. Forgiveness Heals the Deepest Wounds
Wendell’s past was full of pain. His father, drunk one night, accidentally shot and killed Wendell’s brother. That trauma hardened Wendell’s heart. He entered the world of drugs, became a pusher, and eventually landed in jail. At one point, he was so angry he even wanted revenge.
But God used someone close to him, his mother, to stop him. She stepped in when Wendell was planning retaliation and reminded him not to let hate take over. Her words helped soften his desire for vengeance.
At the last part of the film, in a moment of unexpected compassion, his father, once distant and ashamed, reached out to help.
“I didn’t expect my dad to help me. He hated drugs, and as a policeman, my situation brought shame to him. But he said, ‘I’ll help you. We’ll fight this case together.’”
And then, the words Wendell never imagined he would hear:
“I’m deeply struggling… but I love you so much, my son.”
Later, one night when Wendell was hunted by his past, he prayed to God:
“I give up, I can’t do this anymore. Help me, Lord. I need You.”
That cry became a turning point. Forgiveness broke through. He forgave those who had hurt him. He forgave his father. He forgave himself.
Wendell remembered what the prison pastor said. “Jesus paid for the sins we were supposed to pay for.”
A Beautiful Redemption
Wendell was released from prison. But more than that, he was restored—to God, to his family, and to his purpose.
The final scene in Preso shows Wendell embracing his father in tears, joined by Wendell’s three children. A family once shattered, now reunited. Just like the story of the prodigal son, Wendell came home.
“He set me free from everything. From my weaknesses, from all my fears. The Lord never abandoned me inside that prison. I’ve realized that life is truly joyful when the Lord is with you,” Wendell said.
What about you?
You may not be in a physical prison, but maybe you’re locked up in bitterness, regret, or sorrow. Maybe you’ve said, “There’s no more hope for me.”
But there is.
Like Wendell, you can cry out today:
He hears you. He loves you. And He is more than able to rescue and redeem you.
Freedom is real. God’s Word is alive. Hope is always present. Forgiveness is waiting.
Come home now.
Tanikala: Preso is airing until Easter Sunday. Watch it on CBN Asia’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. Don’t miss this unforgettable story of healing, faith, and second chances!
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