Respond
FREEDOM to Respond: From Awareness to Action
What happens when one woman says “yes” to God’s nudge? For Anne, a retired nurse from Edinburgh, Scotland, it began with a simple invitation to host an awareness evening. What unfolded next was a powerful ripple effect that mobilized a community, raised over £10,000, and awakened hearts to the reality of human trafficking.
A Stone, A Ripple, A Movement
Anne’s journey began over two decades ago when she met Connie, a longtime Freedom Sister, while walking their children to school along the Union Canal in Edinburgh. Their friendship endured across continents and years. When Connie returned to Scotland with a group of Freedom Challenge women to climb the rugged mountains of the Highlands, she asked Anne to host a gathering to share their mission.
Anne agreed, unaware that this small “yes” would become a catalyst for something much greater.
From Coffee to Calling
That evening, as Anne listened to stories of women confronting human trafficking, her heart stirred. She had little prior knowledge of the issue, but the testimonies opened her eyes to the reality of exploitation happening even in her own city—especially during the bustling Edinburgh Festival.
“I just couldn’t sit and do nothing,” Anne shared. “Even if it was just a small bit, I had to respond.”
The Canal Walk That Changed Lives
Inspired and determined, Anne and her 82-year-old friend Fiona began planning a challenge of their own. They chose to walk 28 miles along the Union Canal—a path filled with personal meaning, as it was the same route Anne had once walked with Connie.
In just five weeks, Anne rallied over 20 women, ranging in age from 19 to 82. Some walked the full distance, others joined for parts, and many more supported through prayer and donations. Together, they raised over £10,000 to support ministries fighting human trafficking.
Disturbed to Action
Throughout the journey, Anne was reminded of a powerful prayer:
“Disturb me, Lord, when I am too well pleased with myself… when I arrive safely because I sailed too close to the shore.”
This prayer became a personal anthem. After years of caregiving and quiet routines, Anne felt God calling her to step out of comfort and into purpose. “I realized I had been sailing too close to the shore,” she said. “It was time to push myself and serve Him in a new way.”
The Power of Community
Anne’s story is a testament to the strength of community. Her church, initially expected to be a quiet observer, became a vital partner—offering prayer, encouragement, and practical support. Women from different generations and backgrounds came together, united by a shared desire to make a difference.
“It was one of the most amazing days of my life,” Anne reflected. “And when an 82-year-old says that, you know it’s something special.”
Your Turn to Respond
Anne’s story reminds us that we don’t need to have all the answers or be natural leaders to make an impact. Sometimes, all it takes is a willingness to respond—to say yes to the nudge, to host the gathering, to take the first step.
What might God be inviting you into today?
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Watch the interview: https://youtu.be/KbgJtAKFguo
Listen to the podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/842389/episodes/17999959
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Want to learn more?
The Freedom Challenge US: thefreedomchallenge.com
Operation Mobilization USA: omusa.org
Instagram: @freedomchallengeusa / Facebook: @thefcusa