Jesus, the “Hometown Boy” returns to Nazareth and as stated in Luke 4:16-30, goes into the synagogue on the Sabbath day which had become a habit of His. Jesus had gained popularity away from home because of the miracles He had performed and the people from His hometown were anxious to see and hear Him deliver a message. The scripture Jesus chose to read was Isaiah 61:1-2.

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.

Then Jesus boldly tells them the scripture was written about Him. At this point in time, Jesus declares His purpose for being on earth. His ministry was released and He makes His declaration.

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In what ways have you been released? Been given 20-20 spiritual vision? Found liberty? One Sunday, after rising from communion, I made a declaration to volunteer for the media ministry team at the church I attend. I remember looking up at the media equipment in the balcony and deciding to take action on being a part of this ministry.

Satin has a tactic of trying to destroy the message with the use of people who reject the messenger. These people are willing to fight extremely hard to kick God out of society; keeping Him out of public places like schools and courthouses. They try to twist the meaning of “Separation of Church and State” and so much of our media communication cooperates with this activity of keeping God out of our lives.

If tempted to hold back this day with God, pray to be set free. Lord, we are reminded that love flows best when it flows freely. We pray today for our focus on doing what is before us and not at a distance. We pray that you give us a vision and for the initiative to lift the cross high by giving our testimony and praise. We pray that the momentum created by Your liberty inspires us to boldly take action.