On Good Shepherd Sunday, a day meant to reflect on God's care for His people, exiled Nicaraguan Bishop Silvio Báez delivered a powerful message from Miami: the real 'thieves and bandits' today are not common criminals, but those in power who steal a nation's freedom and future.
For over seven years in exile for criticizing the regime of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo, Bishop Báez presided at Sunday Mass at St. Agatha Parish, recalling Jesus' words from John's Gospel: 'The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full' (John 10:10, NIV).
The prelate noted that these powerful figures act with cynicism, speaking of peace while maintaining oppressive structures that deny people initiative and liberty. 'They interpret their abuses, acts of corruption and injustice as a blessing from God, which is blasphemy,' he said.
Nicaragua: A Persecuted Church and a Silenced People
The situation in Nicaragua is a clear example of what Bishop Báez denounces. Since the 2018 protests, the Ortega dictatorship has intensified a systematic persecution of the Catholic Church. Four bishops have been expelled from the country, along with dozens of priests, nuns, seminarians, and laypeople. The regime has seized church properties and closed independent media outlets.
Bishop Báez, who had to leave Nicaragua in April 2019, has become a prophetic voice crying in the wilderness of exile. His testimony recalls the words of the Apostle Paul: 'For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms' (Ephesians 6:12, NIV).
The international community has repeatedly condemned human rights violations in Nicaragua, but repression continues. Bishop Báez calls on Christians not to remain silent in the face of injustice, following the example of Old Testament prophets who denounced the oppression of the poor.
The Voice of Prophets in Exile
Biblical history is filled with figures who, like Bishop Báez, were persecuted for speaking truth. Jeremiah was imprisoned, Amos was expelled from the sanctuary at Bethel, and Jesus himself was crucified for challenging the religious and political powers of his day. 'Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven' (Matthew 5:10, NIV).
Exile is not a sign of defeat, but an opportunity to be light in the midst of darkness. From Miami, Bishop Báez continues to shepherd his people through prayer and the Word, reminding us that no dictatorship can silence God's voice.
What Does This Mean for Christians Today?
Bishop Báez's reflection applies not only to Nicaragua but to any place where power is used to oppress rather than serve. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, gave his life for his sheep, while 'thieves and bandits' seek their own benefit at the expense of others' suffering.
As Christians, we are called to discern the signs of the times and to raise our voices against all forms of injustice. This is not about political partisanship, but about defending human dignity created in God's image. 'Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven' (Matthew 5:16, NIV).
The question that remains for each of us is: Are we willing to be sheep who follow the Good Shepherd, or do we let ourselves be deceived by those who come to steal, kill, and destroy?
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