Today This Scripture Has Been Fulfilled
The scroll of Isaiah the prophet was handed to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where this was written: “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.” He rolled up the scroll, handed it back to the attendant, and sat down. All eyes in the synagogue looked at him intently. Then he began to speak to them. “The Scripture you’ve just heard has been fulfilled this very day!” Luke 4:17-21
It is the shortest and longest sermon ever. In nine words Jesus proclaims the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy: those who are poor receive good news, captives are set free, the Lord’s favor is here!
These nine words ring across the ages. But when will this proclamation be fully realized? God’s people still wait for God to free captives, to bring hope and good news to the poor and oppressed. As we wait, we are called to enter into the work God is doing. We too are anointed to announce the year of the Lord’s favor. There is yet good news to proclaim and hope to come.
Jesus began his ministry in his hometown. It’s a seemingly small detail, but it suggests, perhaps, that going back to our roots—spiritually, at least—is the way to make short work of a long, arduous task. Grounded in the basic gifts of word, sacraments, prayer, and community, we are sent to a needy world to bring what Jesus has already proclaimed. We offer the world what his death and resurrection have won for all people.
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Amen.
Paul Hoffman, Christ In Our Home