Isaiah 61:1-4 MSG
The Spirit of God sent me to:
- preach good news to the poor
- heal the heartbroken
- announce freedom to all captives
- pardon all prisoners
- to announce the year of his grace
- 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
- start over on the ruined cities
- take the rubble left behind
- make it new
I may not be called to do everything on the list above, but the invitation that seems consistent with my life’s calling is to give bouquets of roses (or flowers) instead of ashes.
These flowers are gifts of grace, a compassionate gaze, a non-judgmental presence, and a kind heart. When flowers are given, old ruins can be rebuilt, and new cities can be built out of wreckage.
Oh God, help me give flowers instead of ashes!
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