A Ministry Of Favor

Luke 4:14-21

The Spirit of the LORD is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free, and that the time of the LORD’s favor has come. (Luke 4:18-19)

ONE SABBATH IN NAZARETH, Jesus went to the synagogue and was invited to read aloud from the Scriptures. Whether that day’s reading fell to this particular passage or Jesus chose it himself, it perfectly described the Messiah’s mission statement. Jesus faithfully read this section of the Isaiah scroll and then abruptly stopped—right after the year of God’s favor and before the day of vengeance (see Isaiah 61:1-2). What did he mean by this strategic editing? Judgment would come later; now was a time for blessing. History was entering a new season.

We love the idea of living under God’s favor, often without understanding exactly what it means. It is much more than the idea of all things going smoothly in our lives, though God often orchestrates situations to our advantage. Divine favor is an invitation into God’s shalom, the fullness of his Kingdom. It’s an anointing to fulfill our assignment, to accomplish his purposes, and to live under his kind and watchful eye. It is the assurance that his promises are “yes” and “amen” (2 Corinthians 1:20) and that the God of glory is on our side. It’s a guarantee that even the hard things will work out for our advancement.

Savor whatever God is doing in your life, even if it isn’t particularly easy. Know that you are being drawn into his purposes. You are a captive being released, a blind person being given sight, an oppressed person coming out from under the oppression. More than that, you align with his mission to become a deliverer, a sight-giver, a freedom fighter in the truest sense. You are being invited into a place of glory, whether you see it right now or not. The Son’s mission of showing favor is yours. So are his inheritance, his promises, and his love. Live as though the time of God’s favor has come, because it has—for you and those you touch with the power of his Spirit.

{Holy Spirit, you are upon Jesus in this time of favor, and I am in him. You have invited me into his mission. Fill me with your wisdom, power, and love to proclaim light, freedom, and blessing. Amen.