Stories of people escaping from houses of bondage abound across many countries. Sadly, these stories are often silenced. Some consider them too dirty, shameful, or simply “normal,” as if to say, “Come on, many people go through it.” But the truth is, no one should be forced to live in such oppression.
A woman once shared her story with me-name withheld. Her father died when she was young, and she could no longer continue her education. Her first aunt took her in, promising a better life and schooling. It was all lies. She became a housemaid, treated like a slave. Later, another aunt condemned the first and promised to give her a better future in Lagos. But that too was a trap-she became a salesgirl and nanny.
Worse still, her aunt’s military husband began to abuse her, physically assaulting her when she refused his sexual advances. In fear, she started wearing layers of jeans and blouses to protect herself. Even after confiding in her aunt, nothing changed. Eventually, he threw her out. For days, she slept in a corridor-until a kind woman found her and took her in. That act of mercy gave her a new life, including vocational training.
She described the day she left that house as her “Exodus from hell.”
Dear people of God, the Exodus of the Israelites in today’s first reading is not just ancient history. Many around us are still trying to escape modern forms of bondage-physical, emotional, and spiritual. Jesus himself had to escape several times from those plotting against Him.
Today, we say kudos to all survivors-those who have broken free from houses of bondage. You are true heroes and heroines. And to you, I say: Look around. There may be others still trapped, crying in silence. As St. Paul writes: “God helps us in all our troubles, so that we can help others who have all kinds of troubles, using the same help we have received from God” (2 Corinthians 1:4).
Peace be with you all.
