Freedom Isn't Free
by Raymond Dunton — Wings of Freedom Ministries
As I write this update, my heart is heavy and my emotions are all over the map because my 24 year-old nephew
lies in a military hospital bed in Bethesda, Maryland, paralyzed from the neck down, hooked up to several life
support systems, in a semi-conscious state. On Saturday, January 6, 2007, Joshua Hoffman, a Marine, took a bullet in the neck
during a firefight in Iraq. Joshua knew the risks when he told his Dad, Jim, that he wanted to serve his country and be a freedom fighter.
But, nobody really expected Joshua to become a casualty…a statistic. Although I'm experiencing emotional mood swings such as
hopelessness, anger, pride, guilt, humility, etc., I'm most grateful to Joshua and all the other military men and women who stand
in the gap for my freedom! I'm forced to reflect on my own stewardship of the freedoms that these warriors are providing by laying
down their own lives on my behalf. It's sobering.
I'm reminded of the time in the spring of 1976, when I read the story of what the Creator's Son endured over 2,000 years ago on my behalf. I recall how I felt when I was gripped with the reality of His life and His death. I remember crying - no, sobbing - as I read the brutal events leading to the torturous execution of the crucifixion. I was in awe. It was at that very moment, in the bedroom of my "bachelor pad" that I began to understand the sacrifice…the laying down of His life for me. I experienced a myriad of emotions at that time as well. I was humbled and overwhelmed with gratitude by this selfless act.
I'm grateful for my freedom both as an American citizen and as a child of God. I know freedom is not free. It comes at a very high price. And it's my heart's desire to live, through the power of the resurrection of the Risen Warrior, "worthy of the calling with which I have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." (Ephesians 4:1-3).
Thank you for your faithful prayer and financial support. We do not take it lightly that you have chosen to "stand in the gap" on our behalf as we continue to serve the Host People fo this great land! We are grateful for your partnership in establishing Native individuals in their freedom as they pursue their Quest for Dignity.
The following list is a few of the ministry opportunities we'll be involved in during the month of February. Please remember to pray for the various individual freedom appointments and personal contacts throughout the month, as well. Thanks.
| Date | Event | Place |
|---|---|---|
| Feb. 1 | Live radio talk show on KNDR | Bismarck, ND |
| Feb. 1&2 | Spiritual Protection For Your Children Seminar | Bismarck, ND |
| Feb. 6&7 | Armijo Move - from So. California to | Ignacio, CO |
| Feb. 8 | Navajo Ministries, Inc. Board Meeting | Farmington, NM |
| Feb. 10 | Ignacio Bike Week Planning Meeting | Ignacio, CO |
| Feb. 12 | Pagosa Springs Kinship Group | Pagosa Springs, CO |
| Feb.13 | Durango Area Christian Ministerial Assoc. | Durango, CO |
| Feb. 14 | "Happy 14th Wedding Anniversary"! | |
| Feb. 14-19 | Iron Horse HOG Chapter Cabin Fever Run | Big Bend, TX |
| Feb. 19 | "Happy Birthday Tuggy"! | |
| Feb. 26 | Pagosa Springs Kinship Group | Pagosa Springs, CO |
As we continue on this journey with you, it is our sincere prayer that "you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light" (Colossians 1:10-12).
Blessings!
Raymond & Tuggy
P.S. Please pray for my nephew, Marine Lance Corporal, Joshua Hoffman. And also pray for my brother-in-law (Jim) and sister (Carmen) as they maintain vigil over their unresponsive son.
