More than just motivation
Have you ever watched a TED talk and felt incredibly inspired or motivated to implement what the speakers said? Certain scriptures can have a similar effect, serving as powerful sources of encouragement and inspiration in shaping our perspective on life. Undoubtedly, Isaiah 61 stands out among them. Reading this chapter can instil a sense of readiness to face the challenges of 2024.
But is the purpose of Isaiah 61 just to motivate us or is there something more?
Delving into Isaiah 61 reveals a deeper significance. In Luke 4:16-20, we find Jesus in his hometown of Nazareth, standing in the synagogue and choosing to read a scripture from none other than Isaiah. Remarkably, it is Isaiah 61 that Jesus selects. However, his purpose goes beyond merely motivating the congregation; instead, he emphasizes that this chapter highlights the profound news of Jesus as our Saviour. Jesus declares, "Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing" (v.21), underscoring the fulfilment of God's salvation in him.
As we aspire to experience the Lord's favour in 2024, it becomes clear that mere motivational words are insufficient. Motivation might get us started, but it won’t sustain us. It is like eating a sweet, it tastes good and feels good, but you can’t live on it. We need something far better than motivation – an unchanging, consistent and faithful rock. His name is Jesus!
If we make him the priority, make him the King, make him the centre-point of 2024, we can face 2024. Regardless of the challenges we may encounter, whether known or unknown, in peaks or valleys, our unchanging Saviour, King, and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, holds us through it.
It is through him that we will see Isaiah 61 fulfilled and we can receive a double portion (v.7), oil of joy (v.3), rebuild the ancient ruins (v.4), feed on the wealth of nations (v.6) and partake in the year of the Lord's favour (v.1).
Through Christ we can do 2024!
- Manuel Heinke
But is the purpose of Isaiah 61 just to motivate us or is there something more?
Delving into Isaiah 61 reveals a deeper significance. In Luke 4:16-20, we find Jesus in his hometown of Nazareth, standing in the synagogue and choosing to read a scripture from none other than Isaiah. Remarkably, it is Isaiah 61 that Jesus selects. However, his purpose goes beyond merely motivating the congregation; instead, he emphasizes that this chapter highlights the profound news of Jesus as our Saviour. Jesus declares, "Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing" (v.21), underscoring the fulfilment of God's salvation in him.
As we aspire to experience the Lord's favour in 2024, it becomes clear that mere motivational words are insufficient. Motivation might get us started, but it won’t sustain us. It is like eating a sweet, it tastes good and feels good, but you can’t live on it. We need something far better than motivation – an unchanging, consistent and faithful rock. His name is Jesus!
If we make him the priority, make him the King, make him the centre-point of 2024, we can face 2024. Regardless of the challenges we may encounter, whether known or unknown, in peaks or valleys, our unchanging Saviour, King, and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, holds us through it.
It is through him that we will see Isaiah 61 fulfilled and we can receive a double portion (v.7), oil of joy (v.3), rebuild the ancient ruins (v.4), feed on the wealth of nations (v.6) and partake in the year of the Lord's favour (v.1).
Through Christ we can do 2024!
- Manuel Heinke
No Comments