The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach 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, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn and provide for those who grieve in Zion, to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor. Isaiah 61:1-3
For many who are imprisoned, sick, enveloped in darkness, the joy of the Good News found in Jesus Christ seems unrealistic. The prophetic words of Isaiah are spoken to a people experiencing unexpected devastation. These immigrants traveling to Jerusalem, the land of their ancestors, had heard stories a homeland only to be disappointed by reality. Upon their arrival they found waste and desolation where beautiful structures had once stood and that which was inhabitable now belonged to strangers from other lands.
During this Easter season we celebrate our risen Lord Jesus Christ. But to get to the empty tomb we must first follow the road to the cross. The Prophet Isaiah speaks to a reversal of fortunes. Many of us have experienced a reversal of fortunes over the past year. But that which was once dead and in despair can become an oak of righteousness, a planting to display the glory of God! The sacrifice by Jesus Christ upon the cross, seemingly a victim of those who hated him, offers victory in the form of new life. No longer are we powerless against the temptation to live old ways but called and empowered to rebuild the ruins. God provides mission for those who are marginalized.
Although our worldly circumstances may not change, the way we live in the meantime can change. We can be clothed in the character of God: bestowed with a crown of beauty, blessed with the oil of gladness, and adorned with the garment of praise. In the midst of worldly ruins we will find real joy in the Lord. We are God’s garden planted amidst the many nations. To preach the Good News to the poor, freedom to the oppressed, healing to the brokenhearted, and bringing comfort to those who mourn. We are no longer victims but victors in Christ Jesus! For He has risen! Happy Easter!