Nov 14, 2022
Election days typically wrap up as ballots are tabulated (for
most states!) and results are determined. This usually means that
before the clock strikes midnight, candidates usually know their
fate. To the person who is defeated, there is a gracious concession
speech to deliver. To the victor however, there is a speech of good
news.
This good news is a doubling down on all of the promises that were
made on the campaign trail; things will change, life will become
easier, broken things will be fixed, and there's a bright and
glorious future ahead.
Most of us have heard these good news promises, only to find
ourselves let down, or disappointed. But isn't that kind of how
life is in general when it comes to people? People are notorious
for making good news promises, only to fail on delivery. It happens
with bosses, co-workers, business associates and neighbors.
Shockingly, it even happens in our closest of relationships. Think
of how many times we've had spouses, friends or family members make
big promises of how things are going to get better...only to find
the relationship stuck in the same old rut! So much for good
news!
Where can we go to find someone who not only provides us with good
news, but also delivers on their promise?
Read
how the author of the Gospel of Mark describes the beginning of
Jesus' ministry campaign:
"After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee,
proclaiming the good news of God. “The time has come,” he said.
“The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good
news!” ~ Mark 1:14-15
In
some ways, it sounds like your typical politician. "Follow me,
I have good news for you!" Is that what Jesus is trying to do?
Lure in a crowd to secure their support?
It gets even more interesting as you look at the message Jesus
delivers. Read these words Jesus speaks as his ministry
begins:
“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
Those
are some pretty audacious claims! Resources for the poor, freedom
to the oppressed, and sight for the blind! Jesus grabbed the
attention of many on the campaign trail...but did he deliver?
Or were those words just empty promises to garner a vote. Enticing
words to tickle the ears of the crowd? Or were they genuine "good
news" promises he kept?
Check out episode three of Kingdom Come and take a look at this
"Good News" from Jesus and see if it's
not only real, but how it can help change the direction of our
lives now--and into eternity.