Weekly Update // Pastor John

 Hey Folks,

This week in worship, we’re going to look at Luke 4:16–21:

16 When he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, he went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, as was his custom. He stood up to read,
17 and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written:

18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
because he has anointed me
to bring good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives
and recovery of sight to the blind,
to set free those who are oppressed,
19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”

20 And he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant, and sat down. The eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him.
21 Then he began to say to them, “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.”

When I read this, it feels like I’m reading Jesus’ mission statement. These words from Isaiah capture the heart of what his public ministry would become here on earth.

As followers of Jesus, we’re called to continue that mission today. What does it look like in 2025 to bring good news to the poor, freedom to the captives and the oppressed, to help people see a new way to live, and to be a blessing to others?

I’m excited to explore this together. This Sunday, we’ll also hear from Lori Nadler, chair of our Missions Committee, as she shares about their work and how God is calling us to love, serve, and bless our community and our world.

I hope to see you there and I encourage you to invite a friend!

Shalom,
Pastor John

P.S. If you’ve read this far, tell me your favorite hymn or worship song when you see me on Sunday