Encouraging Word
One of my favorite Bible verses is Luke 4:18, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent Me to heal the broken hearted, to proclaim release to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set free whose who are downtrodden.” To me it describes in general terms what we do at The Jimmie Hale Mission and the people we serve.
Spiritual Proclamation. The verse begins by talking about a spiritual proclamation; “to preach the gospel to the poor.” The Gospel (good news of salvation) must be shared. When it is presented and received, then needs are met. Poor is defined as “not having your needs met.” The gospel message is able to address one’s spiritual, physical, emotional and intellectual needs. If these needs are not addressed, there is something missing; you are incomplete and operating from a deficit; life is out of balance.
Spiritual Healing. Next is spiritual healing; “to heal the broken hearted.” Only the gospel can mend a heart or life that has been broken. Only the Great Physician can administer spiritual healing. Only Jesus Christ can fill the void and vacuum (God Spot) in our life.
Spiritual Freedom. Followed by spiritual freedom; “to proclaim release to the captives.” Only Christ’s payment for our sin can set us free from spiritual bondage. John 8:36 says, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” As you experience spiritual freedom then you can receive spiritual sight (enlightenment); “and recovery of sight to the blind.” Before we can comprehend spiritual things, we must have spiritual discernment (insight). Spiritual birth proceeds spiritual life.
Spiritual Comfort. Then comes spiritual comfort; “to set free those who are downtrodden (bruised).” Because of sin we all live in a fallen world and are a broken people. Since we are oppressed and bruised by the trials of life; we need some relief, comfort and encouragement.
Luke 4:19 concludes by saying, “to proclaim the favorable year of the Lord.” In other words, “to receive the Lord’s favor/blessing. Now the spiritual blessing comes. Aren’t you glad that Jesus fulfilled His mission?!
-Tony Cooper
Celebrating 28 Years of Service as Exec. Director, Jimmie Hale Mission
