Justice and the Prophets
God Promises a Just Kingdom
Live in the light of God (Isaiah 2:5)
The Lord Loves Justice
Isaiah 61:1-7 Good News Translation
The Good News of Deliverance
61 The Sovereign Lord has filled me with his Spirit.
He has chosen me and sent me
To bring good news to the poor,
To heal the broken-hearted,
To announce release to captives
And freedom to those in prison.
2 He has sent me to proclaim
That the time has come
When the Lord will save his people
And defeat their enemies.
He has sent me to comfort all who mourn,
3 To give to those who mourn in Zion
Joy and gladness instead of grief,
A song of praise instead of sorrow.
They will be like trees
That the Lord himself has planted.
They will all do what is right,
And God will be praised for what he has done.
4 They will rebuild cities that have long been in ruins.
5 My people, foreigners will serve you.
They will take care of your flocks
And farm your land and tend your vineyards.
6 And you will be known as the priests of the Lord,
The servants of our God.
You will enjoy the wealth of the nations
And be proud that it is yours.
7 Your shame and disgrace are ended.
You will live in your own land,
And your wealth will be doubled;
Your joy will last forever.
For Reflection
What is the "Good News?"
1. The announcement of good tidings -- Pardoning mercy, renewing grace, and spiritual and physical salvation from oppression.
2. to bind up the brokenhearted -- Healing emotional wounds, relief and comfort to the distressed, pardon, and peace to the guilty.
3. To proclaim liberty -- Freedom from political and spiritual bondage.
4. Opening the prison of spiritual blindness -- Revelation of God's will to those who give their allegiance to God.
That was also the truth of the Christ event. What was true in Isaiah's time is no less true today.
Pray
Pray so that with your words and deeds as a witness to God's love, you proclaim the Good News to all with whom you associate.
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