YOU are Forgiven, Loved, and Free!

Luke 4:40-41 New International Version

40 At sunset, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each one, he healed them. 41 Moreover, demons came out of many people, shouting, “You are the Son of God!” But he rebuked them and would not allow them to speak, because they knew he was the Messiah.

Thursday - February 3

In this passage we see Jesus continuing his ministry of authority and power. Again, he rebuked the evil spirits and silenced them. He also healed the sick by laying his hands on them. This is what we Lutherans would call “sacramental.” Jesus speaks his Word while also including a physical element, his physical hands. We know that “God is love.” But that general statement does not always help us! We need to hear God’s love delivered to us personally. That is what Jesus does! He was God the Father’s personal messenger. He came into this world to “proclaim good news to the poor.” But he did that in a particular place and time to particular people. You have that, too! That is what we receive in Holy Baptism, Holy Communion, and the absolution in worship. YOU are forgiven. YOU are loved. YOU are free!