I don’t think it is too far-reaching to describe this familiar pericope as Jesus’ “mission statement.” The pieces are all there.

When creating a mission statement, it is important to know why you are undertaking a particular project and how you will go about it to be successful. Knowing and naming your target population are also key.

The people in this story were under the rule of the Roman Empire while simultaneously being oppressed by the religious institutions. Jesus knew all this when he stepped up before them, read from the scroll of the prophet Isaiah, and boldly declared his mission. Jesus was clear on his context when he invited listeners to take part in what he was describing and reminded them they were accountable to the God they claimed to serve.

Context matters. I am writing this devotion during a pandemic, a contentious presidential election, and the constant threat of racial and civil unrest. But just as in Jesus’ time, no matter what is happening when you reread this text, the message is the same, and God’s call is clear: If we declare that we are in relationship with God—right relationship—then we must do all we can to move out in this relationship and into right relationship with all in our community.

As he prepares to begin his public ministry, Jesus reminds his listeners and us that the start of anything new is always a great opportunity to pause, revisit our mission, and reclaim “who we are” and “whose we are.” This space of intentional reflection ensures that we show up in the most excellent way, bringing our full and authentic selves and all our gifts in faithful service to God and all God’s people.