After reflecting on last summer, I’m feeling extra thankful today.

Do you remember last year how we all struggled to find ways to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday with our friends and family while adhering to social distancing guidelines? Many of the traditional holiday activities were canceled or moved virtually.

It was refreshing not to carry the same burdens and worries into this holiday weekend and gather more safely with loved ones.

When you experience tough times, it makes you appreciate when the sun comes out.

Yesterday was Independence Day, and I can’t help but think of children running around carelessly when I visualize the feeling of freedom. That’s the same feeling we provide to the families Buckner serves.

Can you imagine how exhilarating it is to see your family free from the cycle of poverty or to break free from addiction and be untethered from a heaviness you once felt so bound by?

This week, I pray you’ll remember those we serve who are longing to experience freedom in their lives. 

I hope you strongly embrace your freedom in Christ and your freedom in our country – I know I will.

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13

Written by Albert Reyes, president and CEO of Buckner International.

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