Beautiful News

How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!” —Isaiah 52:7, NIV

Running into the house one day after school, one of our children excitedly announced that their class was going on a field trip to the zoo in a few days.

Children love the excitement of having something to look forward to. What about us? Are we excited about the good news, and do we look forward to sharing it? The good news we believe in remains unique and relevant in the world today.

To some, a postmodern and post-Christian world is a difficult field in which to labor. It is a time when many people feel their personal journey, their individual experience, and their relative truth are more valuable than an old organized and institutionalized religion that they consider outdated. However, what I believe and the values I hold on to, my understanding of prophecies and doctrines, and my unique religious experiences should not be hidden because I think people do not want to hear them. Through my study of the Scriptures, my participation in a community of faith, and an open heart toward others, I grow.

When I see how the good news affects my life, my choices, my thoughts, and my habits, I discover its value and meaning—and I become excited! Yet the peace and hope in Christ that come from my knowledge of His Word should not make me feel superior to anyone. We are responsible and accountable to God for what we know and are learning.

Jesus invites us to be His disciples and to make disciples. So how do we share the good news with others today? Are we keeping our light “under a bushel” (Matthew 5:15, KJV), trying to fit in rather than sharing what makes us different? The good news should be shared with a discerning attitude. We must build bridges rather than walls of division.

The message is beautiful not only to the one who shares it but also to the one who hears it. God’s good news will break down barriers and open prison doors.

As you study Jesus’ life, notice His meek, loving, and compassionate attitude. Note how He shared good tidings, proclaimed salvation, and declared, “My God reigns!” May God reign in our lives as we grow and share the good news.

Nilde Itin