Devotion:
For an audio version of this devotion, click here.
Read Luke 4:14-21.
Often seen as his first sermon, Jesus teaches after reading this passage from the prophet Isaiah. Luke was intentional to include this scene. He is the only Gospel writer who does. He apparently saw in this passage from the prophet Isaiah a summary of the ministry and mission of Jesus when he was among us. So, as he wrote his version of the story of Jesus, it is as if he wrote it based on this passage. The stories and teaching he offers all fit in with who is mentioned in these verses: the poor, prisoners, the blind and the oppressed. I have heard it said that if the gospel we offer is not good news for those people, then it is not the gospel of Jesus.
I encourage you to be regularly involved in at least one ministry that meets the needs of people like this. That could be at the Food Bank, a nursing home, a prison, a hospital, among many other possibilities. Who has God given you a distinct “heart nudge” for? Is it children, teenagers, the elderly, a minority group or maybe families in the waiting room at the hospital?
Jesus saw his ministry as being focused on blessing these people. May you and I continue his mission by blessing them too.
Personal Worship Option:
Offer this prayer or one in your own words: Missionary God, thank you for the many opportunities all around me to bless other people. Guide me to where I can be the most fulfilled and effective in blessing others for you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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