He heard my cry.
A people had been subjected to decades of oppression. Their entire identity seemed to be defined by slavery of the harshest kind. It was as though no one was listening to them. But He was listening and He had not forgotten them. He saw their suffering and felt their pain and in the fullness of time He brought about the much needed release.
The manner in which this was done did not just leave a message for generations to come of that people – but for all oppressed people. He will not allow it. He hears the cries and He has responded, is responding and will respond. He will come, He will show up and show Himself to be the magnificent promise-keeping one.
One woman was struggling all her life with a crippling condition. While others were looking to criticise Him for ‘working’, He challenged them about a day of rest being about a day of release. With that He healed her and the release she experienced didn’t just lead to her, but to others celebrating the wonderful things that happens because He wants people to be released.
That experience of release was something tangible for one couple. Held down for so long by expectations of them. Inhibited for so long by a small view of their world. Defined by narrow-minded institutions and conventions. Concerned to maintain the status quo, when it was actually for them to overthrow it. Captives to their circumstances and making hollow references to a great Liberator. Deep within, though, there was a cry for freedom.
And that cry was heard.
From the pits of their despair and devastation, He came to the rescue. He came and delivered them. He came and released them to see who they were together. Released them to see that there was more to real life than their narrow confines. Released them to exhilarating heights of joy in freedom found in Him. Released to know Him deeper. Released to never be put in those shackles again.
The people, the woman and the couple are but a part of a thread running throughout time showing that there is a release that can be experienced to those who cry out. Age, gender, social and financial status are all completely irrelevant. The past issues and burdens that weighed heavily can be relieved once and for all.
All who cry out to Him.
Cry out that He will release them – and He will release them.
I know, because I love Him. I know because He released me.
He heard my cry.
(Photo by Shane Rounce on Unsplash)
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 