by Cera McCarragher, Midwestern Program Coordinator, Sidewalk Advocates for Life
Verse(s): “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor, he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion – to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planning of the Lord that he may be glorified.” — Isaiah 61:1-3
Reflection: These verses have always struck me as beautiful, but recently they’ve taken on a new meaning. Jesus has been anointed by God to do several things. As we look closer at what Jesus has been anointed to do, we see incredible compassion and love for His people. For every situation He brings positive relief. He promises good news, encouragement, liberty, comfort, gladness, praise, and establishing in the Lord!
As John tells us in 1 John, “you have been anointed by the Holy One, and you have all knowledge.” (2:20) As we have been anointed and called to imitate Christ, we can strive to follow the example of His anointing. Jesus was called to bind up the broken-hearted – as we minister to men and women on the sidewalk, many of them are broken and need encouragement and healing. Jesus proclaims liberty to those who are imprisoned – we can empower women who feel they have no other options. Jesus gives a beautiful headdress instead of ashes and gladness instead of mourning – we have the opportunity to help women choose joy and gladness for the precious life inside of them rather than the pain and mourning that abortion brings. Without the Lord, our work is meaningless, but through Him, our work is established and has a sure foundation like a large, strong, oak tree.
Faith Challenge: As you seek to be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ on the sidewalk and beyond, let us remember the example we have been called to follow. Let us remember that if our work is from the Lord, he will establish it for His glory.