We can only imagine what it must have been like to watch Jesus unroll the scroll in the synagogue and declare with absolute conviction and clarity the words of the prophet Isaiah: “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor” (Luke 4:18-19).

In this powerful moment, Jesus announced that He is the Messiah, the Promised One, and the living fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy. This proclamation reminds us that our Savior is unlike any other. His mission was not about power and prestige but about good news and freedom for those in need.

And His method was unexpected and unprecedented. As A.W. Tozer put it, “Salvation was bought not by Jesus’ fist, but by His nail-pierced hands; not by muscle but by love; not by vengeance but by forgiveness; not by force but by sacrifice.”

What might it look like for us to regularly reflect on and remember Christ’s mission? ... To embrace our mission as His followers? ... To answer His call by wholeheartedly sharing the Good News of abundant life and freedom in Christ with everyone around us? ... To do so in humility and love and with acts of compassion, pointing all people to our Savior? ... To participate in God’s ongoing work of restoration around the world, and to see the Kingdom expand and families and communities flourish?

This Christmas, may we rediscover the miraculous mission of our Savior and join in this beautiful, redemptive work of proclaiming Good News and showing God’s love to all people.

God, may we, like Jesus, have clarity in our mission. May we know what You have called us to do. Help us to never forget our primary mission of proclaiming Good News and showing love. May our methods honor and glorify You.

by Peter Greer, HOPE president & CEO