Scripture:
“According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it. Let each one take care how he builds upon it. For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 3:10-11)
Reading:
“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor, he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion— to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit…” (Isaiah 61:1-3)
Seven centuries after Isaiah penned this prophecy, Jesus sat in the synagogue of his hometown, opened the scroll of Isaiah, and declared these very words were being fulfilled in Him.
“Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing,” Jesus said. (Luke 4:21
God in flesh announced the good news of His will and power to heal, to free, to comfort, and to restore people to Himself. The same Jesus who spoke those words continues to transform lives today.
Do you believe the gospel? Have you experienced His healing, His freedom, and His blessing? Do you know His comfort, His transformation, and His joy?
If so, God’s Word gives you a name.
“…that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.” (Isaiah 61:3)
Oaks of righteousness don’t just stand tall, they grow deep and strong, providing stability and shelter in the places where God has planted them. And do you know what they do?
“They shall build up the ancient ruins; they shall raise up the former devastations; they shall repair the ruined cities, the devastations of many generations.” (Isaiah 61:4)
In Christ, you are an ambassador of the Lord, intended to be a restorer of what spiritual darkness has broken. Through the Holy Spirit, God invites you to co-labor in His ongoing work of reconciliation and restoration, hope and healing where you are positioned.
Over twenty centuries have passed since Jesus first read those words in Nazareth, yet His mission continues today through His people – through you. Invite the Lord to anoint you anew to use you as His planting right where you are. May your life bear the fruit of Christ’s ministry, glorifying your Father in Heaven.
“It is to my Father’s glory that you bear much fruit.” (John 15:8)
Your Turn:
1. If you yearn for the Lord’s help, comfort, and salvation, tell Him now.
2. Ask Holy Spirit to show you how to be His hands and feet in building up, raising up, repairing your city, healing generations for His glory.
Prayer:
Father God, Your Word says the kingdoms of this earth will pass away. Jesus Christ will reign. Lord, help me to bring the good news and fulfill Your work where I live. Awaken me to reconcile souls to You. May You alone be glorified. Amen.