For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an
opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.
Galatians 5:13
Many Ukrainians desire the freedom to live as they want…freedom from years of tyranny and corruption, freedom from the war and bloodshed that is happening in the East. We talked about freedom at our English Camp this summer. In this rural area on the outskirts of Odessa, we asked our students to examine what true freedom and peace would look like. We discussed our struggle against restrictions, our obligations to others, and the sinful desires of our hearts. We examined the myths of freedom, considered the role of the law versus grace, and presented the gospel of salvation in Jesus Christ as the only true freedom (freedom that comes from a change in our hearts rather than a change in our circumstances). We also presented the call to live in community and to experience the freedom that comes with loving and serving others. This sunrise outside my tent was a beautiful reminder of God’s mercy and of the freedom and peace that I long for these people to know.
©2014 Thrive.