Freedom Sunrise

A Special, Spectacular Sunrise

Freedom Sunrise 10/14/2025

Twenty people witnessed a sunrise—something they hadn’t seen in over two years. What did they feel? What thoughts filled their minds?

I watch the sunrise nearly every morning. I don’t take for granted the beauty God paints across the sky each day—but I’ve come to expect it. But what if I hadn’t seen it in over two years? What if that simple, daily gift had been stripped away? Suddenly, the little things I grumble about—the inconveniences, the delays, the unmet preferences—seem so insignificant in comparison to what these people have endured.

Invitation

I invite us all to reflect: what would it be like to live in darkness, surrounded by terror? To be confined in inhumane conditions, captive among people who hate you—people who murdered your fellow man in brutal, unthinkable ways, for no reason other than hate? Can we even begin to imagine the smells, the temperature, the hunger, the sickness? The bruises, the beatings, the thirst? The silence? The wondering—will I ever see my family again?

My Reflection

Yesterday morning, I woke intentionally at 4 a.m. EST to witness the long-awaited homecoming of twenty innocent people kidnapped from a music festival. I don’t know them personally, but my heart is full. As a mother, sister, and daughter, I can say without hesitation—this moment would be the zenith of my life, second only to the moment I found Jesus.

As my heart celebrated their freedom, I found myself humming "How Great is Our God" by Chris Tomlin. Tears welled up. Awe overflowed. I tried to imagine the first embrace—the moment a son, a brother, a father was finally held again. I can’t fully grasp it, but I felt it.

In that quiet moment, I saw God's hand, clearly and powerfully. And I was reminded how perfect His timing is—even in the things we don’t understand. I see now how God’s plan for President Trump was, and is, part of a greater purpose. I’m thankful for the relative peace we enjoy today—peace that may not exist had 2020 gone another way.

Romans 8:28 (NASB1995) came to mind:

"And we know that God causes all things to work together for good

to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."

And Exodus 14:14 (NASB1995):

"The Lord will fight for you while you keep silent."

Thank You

There are countless layers to this tragic and miraculous story that can’t be unpacked in one message. But I wanted to offer my thoughts and give credit first—to God. He is remarkable. He is "...able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us."(Ephesians 3:20, NASB1995)

But let us also recognize the tireless, unwavering efforts of President Trump and the team he appointed to lead negotiations. Together, they achieved what many believed was impossible. Donald J. Trump has truly earned the title “President of Peace.” My mother used to say, “Actions speak louder than words.” She was right. His actions far outweigh the criticism and harsh words spoken about him. They affirm his place in history.

I pray his example paves the way for lasting peace among all people—that needless, egregious anger would fade, and that joy would fill our hearts as freedom and peace ring louder than ever before.

Lastly, I'm not a singer, but I’ve attached a short clip from this morning as a personal expression of gratitude to God. Haters, please don’t hate—lol. Also, forgive the thumbnail; there is massive construction at my house, and I didn't zoom in when I decided to do this. :)

Clip of my thankful heart singing "How Great is Our God"

Note: After I wrote this article, I allowed ChatGPT to polish it and accepted some of the suggestions.~ Lisa Pritchard