Freedom to Set Others Free

Every so often I meet some guys in a diner for breakfast. And there's a quiet gentleman named Casey who drops by for coffee, too. He strikes me as a "strong, silent type" spiritually:  who's looking for ways he can be used of God to help others connect with our surrounding community's blessings. Each week, I get an email--mailed all over Chester County--that helps others know about important community services, like job training, and coping with the loss of a life-long companion, or finding a lifeline of support when habits begin to control one's life and spirit. What Casey does isn't flashy, but it's fundamental as a follower of Christ. He likes to see others set free.  So does Jesus.

"...He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives"  - Luke 4:18

The place God lets me preach is a special place, blessed by a unity that blends worshippers of varied background. So February seems like a good time to tell some stories of the Underground Railroad, of women and men who became free, and then risked it all to help others become free.


For the better part of thirty years, I have had some experience walking alongside of churches, observing God and observing people at work. Lately, I have been asking myself this question. 

When people think of church, 

is it a place where people are trapped?

or a place where people are being set free?

Through the month of April, my goal is for our congregation to look at a range of ways that God works "Setting The Captives Free".  Probably, this study will lead me to some places where Baptists seldom go. I can't be captive to that. Undoubtedly, this study will mean getting free of some old hurts and hangups myself. Undoubtedly, overdue. But if we go there, we'll be able to help others get there. 

Through His Cross, Though His Grace, 

Into a Springtime of Awakening ~ & breathing easier.