A man we will call Jimmy was homeless and a heroin addict. In his was state, Jimmy, by the criteria with which we often define ourselves; where we’re from and what we do, was not in a good place, and neither was his path taking him there.

While Jimmy was begging for money, he bumped into Megan and Sara, who were on their way to a coffee shop for some conversation. They invited Jimmy, as he was, to join them for coffee and a muffin. Jimmy told the girls his story; who he was…what he was, at least in his best estimation. The girls asked Jimmy if they could pray for him.

That day was different, as has been every day since.

Jimmy was a heroin addict and was homeless. His life situation didn’t immediately change, but he began to pray that God would set him free. Every path to freedom involves, by definition, a sober view of captivity. Jimmy was also wanted by the police. He understood that his path to true freedom also had to involve turning himself in, serving his time, and getting clean. Both before and after his early release, Jimmy was finally freed from captivity. After his release, Jimmy met another couple in our church who hired him to do some work and also bought him a bike to get around town.

True community sets captives free. Jimmy was able to receive what others were able to give. Their loose grip on time and resources helped Jimmy to be shown who he is. Jimmy is a free man.