He has sent me to preach good news to the poor

1 Cor. 2:1-5, Lk. 4:16-30. In today’s first reading, Paul points out the hopeful outlook that kept him going in his apostolic work. In all his activities he felt under the power of the Cross and the impulse of the Holy Spirit. His faith in Christ crucified helped him to bear every difficulty, in spite of fear or weakness. After doing his best, he confidently left the rest to “the power of God.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus also felt the power of the Holy Spirit in His opening address at Nazareth: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor.” This hopeful announcement remains true as the Spirit of the Lord continues to invite us to be glad in God’s presence. When Jesus read from the scroll of Isaiah and then sat down to comment on it, Jesus identified with the prophet who was sent to bring good news to the poor, freedom to captives and sight to the blind and set the downtrodden free. Jesus identified with two famous prophets, Elijah and Elisha, who ministered to people outside Israel. Jesus wants to work with people in greatest need. All He asks is that we receive Him on His own terms, which the Nazareth villagers could not do. The Lord is always close to us; it is our need, our suffering, whatever form it takes, which can bring us close to Him.

May the Lord empower us to walk through this path, so that we will continue to do what is right, worthy and just! Amen!! Have a fruitful week!!!