Jeusus' Declaration of Freedom

Today is the Fourth of July, America's celebration of independence.

Before you prep your smoker or take out the fireworks, reflect on this dab of Scripture from the book of Isaiah, a portion of which Jesus read aloud at the start of His ministry:

The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,
to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of joy
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the LORD
for the display of his splendor.

Isaiah 61:1-3 (NIV)

Jesus read from this portion of Isaiah in a synagogue and then declared, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing" (see Luke 4:16-20).

Audacios, bold, and comforting...Jesus words announced the freedom He brought as the light of the world.

“Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing"

Notice how this section from Isaiah focuses on those who need freedom and help:

• The poor
• Those in despair
• The enslaved
• The brokenhearted
• Prisoners
• Those grieving

Since chapter 3 of Genesis, the whole world has felt the pain of sin. But when Jesus came on the scene, He announced true freedom in God.

Think about these questions while you reflect on this passage:

• Have you fully trusted in Jesus as your Lord for true freedom in your life?
• How are you living out the Gospel to be a light to others?
• In what ways can you focus more on serving the poor, the grieving, and those stepped on in society?
• How does Jesus's example challenge your notions of freedom and the priorities of your life?

Happy true Independence Day in Jesus the Messiah!