Slavery has been around for centuries. For most, it means putting yourself aside and taking care of others. Some might consider it an occupation, but for most of us, we’ve been purchased like cattle to do the menial tasks that most prefer not to do. Imagine, standing on an auction block, waiting for the highest bid. It is not only humiliating, but it pushes your self-worth into the ground. Think of it this way – you are someone of little value – you are on call at all times – you have no life to call your own. Your very existence is reliant on someone else to feed and clothe you, in exchange for what you can do for them. Many great cities were built by slaves. I guess that’s where the word manpower comes from. The machines of your time have taken the place of most of those jobs, but slavery continues to flourish – in many ways.

My name is Ovadya. I was born into slavery. My mother gave birth to me, knowing that I my life would be one of service. My father would never have his own land to work. He would forever be a victim of his circumstances, just as I am. I’m not complaining. I have a decent place to live and food to eat, I’m just at the lowest rung on the ladder of humanity. Many are forced into slavery after being released from prison. Especially those strong enough to survive.

I’m one of the lucky ones. I was purchased by a wealthy family. My job is to wash the feet of my master, his family and any guests that come and go throughout the day. Washing feet in my part of the world is necessary because of the kind of shoes we wear, and the dirt filled roads we must cross to get from one place to another. You can imagine the things that get between your toes. I’m talking about the metropolis of Jerusalem, where people throw their garbage out the windows and onto the streets. Where animals roam freely and are left to their own natural use for the roads. Jerusalem was lined with rocky terrain and sand from the desert. Dirt was often caked to the feet of those I cared for. There’s plenty to do in the home of a rich man, with very little time for myself. I feel fortunate to have a good place to live and food to eat. My master is one of the good ones, but many slaves are treated poorly.

A young man came to the city this week. At first, I thought he was just another religious fanatic trying to change the world. This isn’t an unusual occurrence. The political and religious climates are always active. This man’s words are different though. He gives hope to the desperate and hopeless. His words strike a chord. He relates to everyone he speaks to. He says that HIs mission is to take away the bondage of sin that we all carry. It’s as though He’s speaking directly to me. He gives me comfort that this world is not my final resting place. I can’t help but notice His willingness to reach out to help others without expecting anything in return. He knows my heart. He has experienced everything I’ve lived. He knows the pain and anguish this life and yet he gives me hope for a better future – one that sets me free.

Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:34-36 ESV