“Called to Freedom”

“Called to Freedom” was an amazing singing group formed when I was at Judson Baptist College that performed throughout the West Coast. These men and women were committed to sharing the good news of Jesus through the gift and ministry of music. To this day many of their beloved songs remain part of the stream of music that runs through my head on a daily basis.

The name comes from Galatians 5:13. “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”

This week our students took part once again in Operation Christmas Child. It wasn’t until a few years ago when I met two people in our own community who had received OCC boxes as children themselves that I fully understood what an incredible act of love sending these boxes represent. These two shared the excitement and joy of receiving the boxes not only for the fun items packed inside, but for the gospel message that was a part of the box. Knowing that these boxes were provided by people acting out of love for Jesus made an especially meaningful impact.

At Firm Foundation Christian School, the spiritual formation of students is one of our goals. It’s not enough to tell them what the Bible says, although we certainly want to do that. We want our students to come to the realization that they – no matter how young they may be – can impact the world for Jesus. Not only does this take the form of packing OCC boxes, but it can be seen in students leading singing at chapel, serving as TAs in the classroom, cleaning up classrooms, and a myriad of other small acts throughout the week. Throughout the coming holiday season there will be additional service opportunities for our students. What a blessing that we have the freedom to serve one another, as well as the broader community, through love!