Daily Bible Reading – February 2021 God’s Word of LoveEsimerkki

### February 11 Introduction Jesus goes to his hometown of Nazareth and attends the synagogue. He reads from the book of the prophet Isaiah and tells the congregation that the prophecy has come true. The people are at first amazed but then become angry at his concluding words. They drag him out of town, intending to kill him by throwing him over a cliff. Today’s scripture reading Luke 4:16-30 Today’s key verse: Luke 4:18a “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has chosen me to bring good news to the poor.” Reflect Today’s reading is sometimes described as Jesus’s inaugural sermon. Jesus quotes from Isaiah 58:6 and 61:1-2 and defines his messianic mission. His references to the widow in Zarephath (verse 26) and to Naaman the Syrian (verse 27) indicate that his ministry will embrace marginalized persons and Gentiles. What does Jesus announce? How does the congregation react to his words? What angers them? Why? What is your reaction to Jesus’s announcement? Pray Lord Jesus, you have come to announce good news to the poor and that the time has come when you will save your people. Thank you for your liberating Word and for your message of hope and salvation. Amen. Prayer concern Clergy preparing for their first call to serve a congregation Tomorrow’s reading Luke 4:31-44: Jesus goes to Capernaum where he heals many people and preaches in the synagogues.