The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners. Isaiah 61:1
Isaiah was a Messianic prophet. He knew that from the people of Israel, specifically Judah, a great blessing would come. God would fulfill His covenant with Abraham; to bless all nations.
This chosen nation is in shambles. They expected much, but gave nothing. God requires obedience but that was too tall a request. Continually defying God’s commands, they turned their back on His love and crumbled their own hope. BUT, there is a bridge between shame and dying and freedom and healing. Its God Son, the Christ Child. A Redeemer and Healer is coming.
When Jesus enters His ministry, after His baptism and temptation, He goes to the synagogue as every Jewish man did. He read this passage quoting Isaiah and announced that it had been fulfilled. (Luke 4:16-21)
The greatest gift of Christmas is the power of victory that Baby brought to earth. When you see the nativity, you see Heaven and every promise God has given will be kept.
There is a Christmas tune, O Come O Come Immanuel, based on this passage from Isaiah. Enjoy it sometime today and soak in its assurance.
Love,
Gretchen