And the book of the prophet Isaiah was handed to Him. And He opened the book and found the place where it was written,
THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS UPON ME,
BECAUSE HE ANOINTED ME TO PREACH THE GOSPEL TO THE POOR.
HE HAS SENT ME TO PROCLAIM RELEASE TO THE CAPTIVES,
AND RECOVERY OF SIGHT TO THE BLIND,
TO SET FREE THOSE WHO ARE OPPRESSED,
TO PROCLAIM THE FAVORABLE YEAR OF THE LORD.”
And He closed the book, gave it back to the attendant and sat down; and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on Him. And He began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” Luke 4:18-21
Jesus announced his purpose and mission in his hometown synagogue. It was received with mixed emotions and eventually led to a mini-riot. This is the reaction of the world to the gospel. He was rejected by the closest people he knew.
Am I ready for a mixed reaction as I follow Jesus Christ teachings and proclaim His message today? Yes. Its tough, but that’s what I signed up for.
Lord, today may I continue to carry out your purpose and mission in the world: sharing the good news, proclaiming the acceptable year of the Lord, healing, bringing sight to the blind, and leading others to freedom.