The associated reading for this reflection can be found in your Every Sacred Sunday Mass journal or online here.
Cold heavy iron dragged on Peter’s wrists. Oppressive metal clanked with every one of Paul’s movements. The weight of persecution and probable execution—heavier than the chains—enveloped them with suffocating strength.
Peter and Paul were threatened, targeted, and imprisoned by the period's strongest superpower. To fight the Roman Empire was to use a teaspoon to fight a forest fire. Yet these men knew Psalm 34 by heart: “The angel of the Lord will rescue those who fear him.”
This faith is what allowed Peter to sleep the night before facing the murderous King Herod even though one of his best friends, James, was just killed for his belief in Christ. The sleeping Peter was sure of the Lord’s protection regardless of the double chains and two guards holding him prisoner.
This faith is what gives Paul—who knows firsthand what happens to Christians in Rome—the assurance that “The Lord will rescue [him] from every evil threat.” His hopeful joy drips from every word of his letter to Timothy as he glorifies God towards the end of his life after nearly 6 cumulative years of imprisonment.
What seemingly indestructible force holds you captive? What addiction, abuse, trauma, or sin feels like heavy chains around your heart? The evil one wants you to believe that these chains are permanent, unbreakable, and all your fault. Nothing could be farther from the truth.
Whatever it may be that oppresses you, today’s readings of the incarcerated Peter and the triumphant Paul are written directly to you. Peter was liberated of his chains by the Angel, led past both guards and the iron gate to freedom. Paul proclaims victory in Christ’s name over the lion who sought to devour him.
This victorious freedom is not just for Peter and Paul. It’s for you too. The Lord desires to liberate your heart and lead you away from your bondage into his triumphant embrace. Will you accept it?
Tomás Aguilar is a Marine Corps Officer living his childhood dream of being a husband and father. He’s from Pennsylvania but currently resides in Rio de Janeiro where he’s missing his family, working out, fleeing from the devil, and chasing holiness. Check out his Instagram to accompany him as he aims at sainthood, love, fun, and fitness for his family.
