I opened my newsfeed this morning and began to scan the headlines. One bad news story after another. It amazes me how people can even hold up their heads at times.
After Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness, He began His public ministry by teaching in the synagogues. Luke tells us that word about Him began to spread and people took notice of Him. Before too long Jesus returned to Nazareth and went into its synagogue. He stood up to read and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to Him. He opened to a particular passage and began: “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” [Luke 4:14-19 NIV]
Jesus preached good news. His entire focus was on meeting needs. He came to proclaim liberty, light, freedom from oppression and God’s favor. He came to heal. Beloved, His message is our message. God gave us the same message and ministry of reconciliation. [2 Corinthians 5:18-21]
So …. Why do we often present our “good news” as if were “bad news?” People get enough bad news from those who have not experienced the freedom, light and favor of God. Why should they get more “bad news” from the church? Our words to them should be full of hope and healing and encouragement.
We, who were recipients of the Lord’s favor are now ambassadors sent to proclaim that same Lord’s favor to those who are still imprisoned by sin. When we share “good news,” people will come, they will listen, they will be set free. After all, it’s Good News!
