Dear Trinity Family & Friends,

Freedom is one of the great gifts of the Christian faith and one of the most easily misunderstood. Scripture reminds us that freedom is not simply the absence of restraint, but the presence of love. It is the space God creates for us to live fully, faithfully, and for the sake of others.

In Galatians 5, Paul declares, “Christ has set us free for freedom.” Yet he is quick to clarify what that freedom looks like. Christian freedom is not self-serving; it is self-giving. We are liberated not to turn inward, but to serve one another through love. Freedom, in Christ, always moves us toward relationship, responsibility, and care for our neighbor.

The story of the Exodus gives us a powerful image of this truth. Standing at the edge of the Red Sea, the Israelites find themselves trapped between the waters and the pursuing army. God’s command is not complicated, but it is bold: “Don’t be afraid. Stand your ground.” And then, when the way opens, God tells them to move forward. Freedom requires trust. It asks us to step into the unknown, believing that God is already making a way.

This understanding of freedom shaped the witness of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In his sermon “The Drum Major Instinct,” preached just weeks before his death, King challenged the human desire for recognition and importance. He urged the church to redefine greatness, not as power over others, but as service for others. True freedom, he believed, is found when we are released from the need to be first and are free to love.

This Sunday, as we gather around The Lord’s Table, we’ll reflect on what it means to live into the freedom Christ offers; a freedom that heals, serves, and unites.

Reflect and Prepare

1. How do you understand freedom through the lens of your faith?
2. What does Paul mean when he says freedom should be expressed through love?
3. Where might God be inviting you to trust Him and move forward in faith?
4. What fears or habits keep you from living freely in Christ?
5. How does the Exodus story speak to moments when you feel stuck or uncertain?
6. In what ways can freedom become a gift we offer others, not just something we claim for ourselves?
7. How might Christ be calling our church to embody freedom through service?

Be the Light This Week

Freedom in Christ creates space for generosity. This week, we invite you to Be the Light by choosing one act of service or kindness you will offer freely in Jesus’ name. Write it down and place it inside one of the lanterns on display, or submit online and we'll add your flame into a lantern. Each act is a reminder that Christ’s freedom is meant to be shared.

Grow Together

Living into freedom is not something we do alone. Our Share the Dream small groups provide space to reflect on Scripture and Dr. King’s teachings alongside others who are seeking to grow in faith. Groups meet on Sundays and Thursdays. Visit trinityhsv.org/events for more information.

See you Sunday!

Pastor Dedric