SOAP Isaiah 61: The Spirit of the Lord

The Spirit of the Lord

ISAIAH 61

These set of scriptures are some of my favorites. They tell about the coming of the Messiah, Jesus. We read them again later when Jesus reads them in the temple and declares that they have been fulfilled.

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the Lord’s favor has come, and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies. To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory.

‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭61‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Not only did Jesus fulfill these words, but He came so we would know that we also are here to declare freedom to captives, comfort to those who are mourning, and good news!

We are like a tree planted for His glory. Our roots grow deep in Him. He called us to do His will.

This makes me both excited and nervous. I know I can’t do much in my own power but all things are possible with Jesus.

How do you feel when you read these words?

Prayer: Thank you, Jesus, for coming to save us. Thank you for fulfilling the scriptures. I am so thankful for the freedom you have given me. Thank you for calling me to do your will. Help me be willing and eager to do it. Amen