Oaks of Righteousness

The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion - to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor. Isaiah 61:1-3
These are some of my favorite verses in the chapters for today. I remember taking a Bible Study by Beth Moore, and she expanded on these verses explaining that this was Jesus' ministry in a capsule. Shouldn't it be ours as well?

To proclaim good news to the poor -not the poor as in wealth, but "poor" as in needing a Savior and a touch from the Lord in their lives. What we hold, dear sisters, is so precious and comforting to us - should we not share it at every turn?

To bind up the brokenhearted . . . and comfort all who mourn - do you know anyone that has a broken heart? Or one that mourns the loss of a loved one, the loss of a dream, the loss of a job or health, or self-esteem?

To bestow the garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair - can we give praise where praise is due? Offer a word of encouragement, "a cup of cold water," a sincere thank you, a random act of kindness, a smile to a stranger?

Oaks of righteousness - a planting of the Lord - When I read this phrase, I immediately thought of Oak Hill - a planting of the Lord. That's what our church is about - planting seeds for the Lord. Offering encouragement, sharing our testimony of how the Lord has blessed us and helped us to grow and mature in Him. There are so many out there that need your witness and a hope to keep going in this troubled world. He has called us - He has called you to be that oak.

As oaks of righteousness we can reflect Jesus in our lives and be like that tree planted by the rivers of water. Have you ever seen trees planted by rivers of waters? They are green; they are lush; they are beautiful - tall and stately. They give shade from the sun and protection from the wind, and offer beauty to the eyes. But how do we grow and stay "watered" so that we can be these oaks? By reading His word and feasting on His manna - just like we are doing each day by participating in this Blog. This will enable us to grow and thrive. And the results? Others will see Jesus in us, and in that way we will be able to bear much fruit for Him and bring Him the glory.