Today our theme is the Old Testament applied to ministry. We are looking at how God’s calling and promises in Scripture continue to shape how we serve young people today.

Our passage is Isaiah 61:1–3—a foundational revelation of God’s heart for restoration, healing, and hope.

Let’s pause and become aware of God’s presence with us.

Opening prayer
Lord, open our ears to hear your Word. Open our hearts to receive your calling again.As I read today’s passage, listen first for what God may be speaking to you personally.

Isaiah 61:1–3 “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion—to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.”

What broken or weary places in your life need God’s healing and comfort?

Silence

Where do you need the Spirit of the Lord to speak liberty and freedom into something that feels bound or stuck in you personally?

Silence

Ask God to reveal His oil of gladness and garment of praise for you.

Silence

Part 2: Outward Focus

As we read the passage again, think of the young people you serve.

Isaiah 61:1–3 “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor; he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion—to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he may be glorified.”

In your ministry planning for the upcoming season, how is God calling your team to proclaim good news to the poor and reflect His restoration and compassion to the youth He will invite to encounter Him?

Silence

Ask God to bring to mind one youth you serve who is needing beauty instead of ashes, hope instead of despair. Bring them before the throne in intercession.

Silence

As He has from long ago, God delights in bringing beauty from ashes, joy from mourning, and praise from heaviness. May He continue shaping us into faithful servants who help young people encounter His healing and hope, so that they too may become “oaks of righteousness,” firmly planted for His glory.