“If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” -John 8:36

It is not an uncommon reality for Christians to know in their minds that they have been liberated from sin, yet they still experience bondage in certain areas of their lives. This tension feels so real! Jesus has set us free, but why do we at times feel chained to the opinions of others? Or maybe your hope of leaving behind addiction is fading? Maybe you are believing lies that the enemy is presenting you?

Our high school staff feels strongly that God wants our students to be liberated from the slavery of sin. His word could not be more clear:

Romans 6:5-7 says, “For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin – because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.”

This year at high school winter camp our theme was “freedom.” We wanted to create space for the Spirit of God to convict, teach, guide and transform. God was gracious! The Spirit revealed to many of them the sin in their lives and they responded by seeking Him! Students felt the freedom to expose the sinful things that were hidden in their own lives to leaders and peers. They were met with grace, truth and love. It was beautiful to witness!

The challenge for them now is to continue to live in the freedom that Christ has provided for us. Please pray that our high schoolers live in vulnerability and continue to seek liberation from the things that attempt to rob them of the joyful life that Jesus offers.

– Jordan Swigart, Associate Shepherd of HSM