Good News!
The birth of Jesus comes at a point in Israel’s history that is very troubling. The God who has always spoken to them has been silent for some 400 years now. They find themselves captive to the Romans. They are oppressed by a heathen nation, and a spirit of depression seems to dominate their lives. It is into this very dark and gloomy picture that Messiah steps. Our Lord makes His way back to his hometown, and goes to church. He asks for the Scriptures and begins to read.
Luke 4:18-19 GW
(18) "The Spirit of the Lord is with me. He has anointed me to tell the Good News to the poor. He has sent me to announce forgiveness to the prisoners of sin and the restoring of sight to the blind, to forgive those who have been shattered by sin,
(19) to announce the year of the Lord's favor."
Those that had waited a lifetime to see deliverance felt a rush of hope surge into their spirits! The day that had just moments ago looked dark and foreboding, is suddenly bursting with bright anticipation!
I felt the icy grip of oppression when I first entered the city of Butler. The effects and the hand of our adversary was evident. I recognized that empty look of despair that gazed back at me. The slouched walk of folks walking downtown was the effect of hopelessness. Depression, addiction, loneliness and confusion seem to have ruled for a long time.
I heard a common theme in nearly every conversation that I held with believers. “I’m hungry for more! I want to see the power of God revealed in our city!”
I’ve got great and refreshing news! The same Spirit that resided in Jesus Christ, lives on today! The Holy Ghost is STILL being poured out! The Spirit of God is still delivering, setting free, comforting, and empowering! The refreshing winds of revival are blowing in the city of Butler! Seeds that have been planted for years are growing. Prayers that have been offered for years are being answered! The year of the Lord’s Favor is upon us!
“The Spirit of the Lord is with me. He has anointed me to tell the Good News to the poor. He has sent me to announce forgiveness to the prisoners of sin and the restoring of sight to the blind, to forgive those who have been shattered by sin, to announce the year of the Lord's favor."
Be encouraged today, the Holy Ghost is still changing lives!
