Where Hope Lives and Freedom Is Found

Guest :Linda Hercenberg, CEO Adult & Teen Challenge — October 12, 2025

This Sunday, our church family was reminded that no life is too broken for God to restore. We welcomed Linda and Kelle from Adult & Teen Challenge Columbus, who shared powerful stories of transformation through faith in Christ.

Linda began with an honest look at the battle so many face—addiction, fear, and the lies that say “this is all you’ll ever be.” But she didn’t stay there. With warmth and conviction, she described how Teen Challenge walks with people through healing of the whole person—spirit, mind, body, and heart.

Every part of their 14-month residential program is designed to help people experience the freedom that only Jesus can give. It’s not just about breaking habits; it’s about becoming new in Christ. Through Bible studies, prayer, work therapy, and community, students discover purpose, identity, and dignity again.

“Hope lives here, freedom is found here, and changed lives leave here.”

Those words echoed through the sanctuary—then became real as we heard one woman’s story.

Kelli stood before us as living proof of what Linda had described. Once trapped in addiction and loss, she shared how she reached a breaking point and cried out to God for help. That simple prayer opened the door to a new beginning.

At Adult & Teen Challenge, she found safety, love, and the truth that she is valued—not because of what she’s done, but because of who Jesus is. Today, she’s walking in freedom, restored to her family, and now helps other women find hope in Christ.

Her story reminded us all: Jesus still sets captives free.

Reflections for Us All

As we listened, it was impossible not to see ourselves somewhere in the story. We all have places where we need God’s healing touch—wounds, fears, habits, or doubts. The same Savior who lifted Kelli out of the ashes offers that same grace to every one of us.

“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17

Maybe your next step isn’t a recovery program—it’s simply asking God for help, reaching out for prayer, or offering encouragement to someone who’s struggling. Freedom in Christ isn’t reserved for a few; it’s God’s promise to all who come to Him.

About Adult & Teen Challenge

Adult & Teen Challenge Columbus has been helping men and women find freedom from addiction for more than 55 years. Their residential and community programs combine faith, discipleship, and practical life skills to bring lasting change.Learn more or schedule a visit at teenchallengeusa.org.

Final Thought

We left Sunday’s service with full hearts and fresh hope—grateful that the same Jesus who changes lives at Teen Challenge is still changing ours. Wherever you are today, remember: there is hope, there is freedom, and there is a God who makes all things new.