Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Church: A Community called to proclaim the Gospel

Isaiah 61:1-11
 

This passage is titled “ The Year of the Lord's Favor” and is written by the prophet Isaiah.  In the first section, Isaiah acknowledges his own anointing as a prophet and proclaims what Jesus would come on Earth to do. He describes the comfort and joy Jesus will provide for those who are hurting and also speaks of the deliverance of the Jews from captivity. 
 
All in all, this passage serves as a reminder of both the hope and justice that the Gospel represents.  It states that those who mourn will be comforted, ruined places will be restored, churches will grow, and ultimately justice will be served. As the church, we are called to proclaim the Good News and hold fast onto the hope that Jesus offers us. Although there may be difficulty, pain, and suffering, there is also comfort and favor as we remain steadfast in our faith. This provides us with a sense of peace, knowing that the Lord is always fighting for us and we are never alone. However, it is important to remember that it is not our righteousness that saves us, but the Lords. Isaiah reminds us of this when he says “For He has clothed me in garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of His righteousness”. 

 
PRAYER
Dear Lord, we thank you for sending your one and only Son to provide comfort and healing for the brokenhearted. Help us to hold onto the hope that you offer us and remember that we are not alone in our struggles. We are so grateful for your grace and righteousness. Amen
 
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
“We are secure, not because we hold tightly to Jesus, but because he holds tightly to us.” - R.C Sprout
 
Minti Thomas, St. Johns MTC, New York 
Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church

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