The Year of His Grace!




Isaiah 61:1-3 (The Message)

(Announce Freedom to All Captives) The Spirit of God, the Master, is on me because God anointed me. He sent me to preach good news to the poor, heal the heartbroken, Announce freedom to all captives, pardon all prisoners. God sent me to announce the year of his grace— a celebration of God's destruction of our enemies— and to comfort all who mourn, To care for the needs of all who mourn in Zion, give them bouquets of roses instead of ashes, Messages of joy instead of news of doom, a praising heart instead of a languid spirit. Rename them "Oaks of Righteousness" planted by God to display his glory. They'll rebuild the old ruins, raise a new city out of the wreckage. They'll start over on the ruined cities, take the rubble left behind and make it new. You'll hire outsiders to herd your flocks and foreigners to work your fields, But you'll have the title "Priests of God," honored as ministers of our God. You'll feast on the bounty of nations, you'll bask in their glory. Because you got a double dose of trouble and more than your share of contempt, Your inheritance in the land will be doubled and your joy go on forever.

What has God appointed you to do? Because this is the custom to reflect on the past year, and made a commitment to "do better", we find ourselves in a quandry. What did we do for God this year, what part did we play in furthering His kingdom ! Many questions and not enough answers. As I was reading this scripture tears of thanksgiving filled my heart. How awesome is our God! How mindful He is of us, and this joy and peace and the comfort is promised to us. I desire to be a "Oak of Righteousness", I pray for you to be also. John and I pray Gods richest blessings on you and your family! Be strong in the Lord, look to Him, and call to Him for help! Let this truly be the year of His grace!

1 comment:

whidbeywoman said...

Thank you for your words of wisdom and peace. God's grace is enough
for us in 2010. Alleluia. Amen!