Free Indeed!

What does it mean to have freedom? I used to think it meant that I could do whatever I wanted at any time. The truth is, when I was living that life, I was not free at all. I was actually a slave to a life that left me empty and searching."Freedom consists not in doing what we like, but in having the right to do what we ought."Pope John Paul II. In just a few days, eight of our fearless leaders here in our home CR, will travel to Russia with issues ranging from alcoholism, pornography addiction, same sex attraction, codependency, control issues, anger and rage, passivity, broken marriages, living in fear and more. This group will be presenting CR to pastors and jail/rehab center directors in Moscow. Are you kidding me?! How big is God that He would take a group of messed up people like you and I and say, "hey guys, see that stain in your past? Well, I am going to take this new freedom and victory I have given you and use it for my glory." As I met with this team for their final meeting, I was overwhelmed with what an incredible picture of hope and life change I was witnessing. My forever family leaving for this trip now have true freedom. They have now been given the freedom to do what they ought, and that is a life and purpose for Christ. To NOT allow the hurts from their past to be wasted.  The beautiful thing in this is that as we are given this gift of freedom, we are inspired and ignited toward leading others to taste what we have tasted. Now that is freedom. "So if the son sets you free, you will be free indeed."John 8:36. Please pray for our forever family leaving on Monday to share this truth both by their example and their words as living testimonies of what freedom looks like. I am a proud leader to be able to stand alongside these amazing men and women. (and jealous that I am not going...:) ) Thank you, Rodney Holmstrom

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