One year ago, Christ set me free. It was the most dramatic thing to ever happen to me and yet it came about in the most unassuming way.

Through the hands of a holy priest I was released from a sin that held me captive for years as well as the nagging shame that always accused me of my weakness. There were no fireworks, I felt nothing physical, and yet I knew something in me had shifted. And to my amazement, it has never shifted back.

For many years I was in engaged in a half-hearted struggle against sin, never believing there would be complete healing this side of heaven. And so I submitted again and again to the yoke of slavery.

Praise God for the Sacrament of Penance. Seriously, if you’ve been away from the Sacrament, I implore you to go. There is no medicine more healing than the mercy of God in the grace of the Sacraments. I am confident that dozens of humble confessions over many years made way for my miracle.

I don’t know why Jesus chose to heal me in that unsuspecting moment. I don’t know why He gave me that particular grace when I wasn’t even specifically asking for it. But I know now what freedom feels like and I am so incredibly grateful.

We hear in today's First Reading "[f]or freedom Christ set us free" (Galatians 5:1). No more shackles, no more shame.

Let me assure you that no matter how deep and dark your captivity may feel, Jesus intends to set you free. No matter your story of suffering, there is relief, there is healing, there is freedom in Christ.

Let my life be the proof—freedom is for you.

[bctt tweet="No matter your story of suffering, there is relief, there is healing, there is freedom in Christ." username="thebethdavis"]

What is holding you back from the Sacrament of Penance? How can you make a concrete plan to get there, and get there regularly? Find an accountability buddy, check your parish's website for times, or make an appointment with a trusted priest.

Beth Davis is a lover of Jesus, a recently retired youth minister, and the Director of Ministry Advancement for Blessed is She. She is passionate about teaching women how to develop an intimate relationship with Jesus and speaking hope to weary hearts. Her favorite things include being an aunt to her five fantastic niece and nephews, the Saint Name Generator, and whatever book she's currently reading. You can find out more about her here. She is the author of our Blessed Conversations: God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit study found here.