Let the Oppressed Go Free

The image below is of a sculpture called Let the Oppressed Go Free by Timothy Schmalz.

St Josephine Bakhita, herself a survivor of human trafficking, is the person lifting the trap door to release people from their oppression.

Take a moment to consider the image and the thoughts and feelings it evokes.

Now let's listen to Timothy Schmalz, the artist, reflecting on this piece.

Conclude by reading the words of the prophet Isaiah which inspired the sculpture.

Is not this the fast that I choose:
to loose the bonds of wickedness,
to undo the straps of the yoke,
to let the oppressed go free,
and to break every yoke?

Is it not to share your bread with the hungry
and bring the homeless poor into your house;
when you see the naked, to cover him,
and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?

Then shall your light break forth like the dawn,
and your healing shall spring up speedily;
your righteousness shall go before you;
the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.

Isaiah 58: 6-8