'In Chains for Christ'

Today I had the privilege of attending a Mass at the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls in the chapel of Saint Benedict. In fact, the basilica is administered by the Benedictine Order, and we were warmly received by its abbot. During the homily Canon Philip, the Rector of the Pontifical Beda College, alluded to the Benedictine spirituality, how Benedict proclaimed the Gospel with prayer, work and hospitality and he reminded us of our duty to do the same in our own context. We were told that God's calling is not a single moment in time but a continuous event that begs our ongoing response and discernment.

After the Mass ended, the students were released to explore the magnificent building at their own leisure. I was immediately drawn to the place where, according to tradition, the Apostle Paul was buried. Above the sarcophagus, I could gaze the chains that bounded Paul while in prison. I remembered his words:

'Now I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.' (Philippians 1.12-14)

I could not avoid kneeling in profound reverence both for Paul's ministry and the suffering he endured and for the countless Christians who came to that same place in pilgrimage expecting to be touched by God while interceding to the Apostle. My inner being was moved, and I began to pray. I confessed my thoughtfulness and inconsistency in preaching the Gospel. I begged to be released from my flesh and to be chained to Christ, to bear a life sentence of imprisonment to His love and mercy. Then I interceded for all those who are in my heart, all of those whom I left home and who many of them are praying for me right now.