God Sees the Outcast and Breaks Every Chain

Gen 21:5.8-20; Psalm: 33; Mt 8,28-34

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, today, we will reflect upon “God sees the outcast and breaks every chain.” Let us begin with the story of Hagar, a woman who knew the pain of rejection all too well. In Genesis, we find her cast out into the wilderness, a victim of circumstances beyond her control. But even in her solitude, she encountered the God who sees her. In a moment of despair, she cried out, and God responded with compassion. He spoke to her and said, “I have heard your cry.” Hagar called Him El Roi, the God who sees.

What a beautiful reminder that no matter how alone we may feel, God’s mercy is ever-present in our moments of rejection. He does not overlook our pain. Just as He provided for Hagar and her son in the desert, He promises to provide for us in our most difficult times. So let us embrace Christ the Liberator, who walks with us through our deserts and into His promise of redemption. Now, I ask you to examine your “pigs”—those burdens and distractions that keep you from experiencing the fullness of God’s love.

In Matthew, we read about the man possessed by demons, living among the tombs. He was an outcast and alone, bound by chains that no one could see but him. Yet, when he encountered Jesus, everything changed. The sovereign authority of Christ brought liberation, breaking the chains of spiritual bondage. But here’s the scandal of liberation: sometimes we prefer the comfort of our chains over the uncertainty of freedom. The townspeople, frightened by the miracle they witnessed, chose to ask Jesus to leave rather than embrace the new reality He offered. How often do we cling to our false peace, even when it shackles us?

Beloved, God has a preferential option for those who suffer. He sees us in our struggles and desires to set us free. Liberation comes through Christ, but it often requires a cost. Discipleship is not easy. It can mean facing rejection from those we love, just as Christ faced rejection. Yet, we must open our eyes to God’s provision and trust Him to lead us on the path of true freedom.

As we reflect on these truths, let us not only seek to be recipients of God’s grace but also vessels of His mercy. Be El Roi for others. See those who are suffering and outcasts in your life. Reach out with compassion and love, offering a glimpse of God’s grace. Let us proclaim liberation, not just within ourselves but to a world in desperate need of hope. As we go forth, remember that God sees the outcast and breaks every chain. No matter where we find ourselves today, we can trust that His love will guide us through the wilderness and into the light of His promise. In closing, I encourage you to embrace Christ the Liberator. Let Him break every chain that binds you. And may we, together, be a community that sees, loves, and liberates those around us. Amen.

Pope Francis constantly emphasizes: “The Church must be a place of mercy freely given, where everyone can feel welcomed, loved, forgiven and encouraged to live the good life of the Gospel” (Evangelii Gaudium, §114).

As St. Ignatius of Loyola prayed: “Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my entire will… Give me only your love and your grace, that is enough for me.”

St. Alphonsus Liguori urges: “He who prays is certainly saved. He who prays not is certainly damned.”