Pierce my heart to spread your word

A few days ago I was exposed to one of life’s cruelest realities. Trade in human beings, modern slavery, is occurring right under our noses. We walked through the streets of Sonagachi, one of the largest red light districts in South Asia. The brokenness of this place and this world truly hit me, as we walked the narrow, winding streets polluted with sin and despair. This place of human weakness and darkness was a devastating realization. I think, in that moment, I caught a glimpse, of how God must feel, when He sees His children driven by their flesh.

It’s all too common among the girls and women here that they have been sold or betrayed by close family members, including parents. Poverty and false promises of honest employment have led these innocent souls to a world they never imagined existed. We cannot begin to imagine the mixture of fear, despair, disappointment and anger these victims may feel, as they realize that they have been caught in a trafficker’s net. Their only option in life is to continue to suffer abuse at the hands of those who enter through the door or to escape through the door of death.

Regardless of the reason why this area’s girls and women are here, they deserve better. They deserve a way out. They deserve an option. They deserve freedom. Their right is affirmed in Galatians 5:1: “it was for freedom that Christ set us free”.

Now one question remains, who will go? Who will tell them about Jesus? Who will tell them about freedom in Christ?  Who will bring the Truth to these vulnerable and broken souls? This question continues to pierce every inch of my heart. All I recall, as I write, are the faces of the young girls who are forced to submit to it. The faces of these innocent souls, lined up, all dressed up in pretty dresses and with red color on their lips. I ask you all to pray for victims of human trafficking. Pray for people who are sold, used and humiliated against their own will. Pray also for the conversion of the ones behind the crime.

Human trafficking is a hidden crime and it often goes undetected by authorities. I believe a lack of public awareness, together with a lack of understanding the victims, present major barriers to combating the crime. I urge you all to stay informed about human trafficking and support organizations that help the women break the chains (like Freeset here in Calcutta).

Living Hope, with a heavy heart I come to you. Comfort all who are held in slavery. Heal the wounds of these souls. Look upon them with compassion and bless them with a renewed sense of trust in relationships of love. Only You God can take away their hurt and put them back together. Reveal to them Your Love, Mercy and Goodness. Make your purpose for each one of them clear, so that they may find Hope in You. Grace them with the power of the Holy Spirit so that they may recognize and accept their Savior. Thank You Father, that because of Jesus freedom is possible.

Most Holy Virgin, Mother of Compassion, comfort those in chains and intercede for their souls, that by your powerful intercession they may find freedom in Your Son.

Amen