SAINT IGNATIUS OF LOYOLA, PRIEST (MEMORIAL)

It shall be a jubilee for you.

The Jubilee that Israel celebrated every fifty years was a wonderful time of restoration. Debts would be forgiven, confiscated property would be returned to its original owner, slaves would be set free, and scattered families would be reunited. The demands of ordinary life would be interrupted in favor of celebration, sharing, and gratitude.

This ancient tradition sounds attractive, doesn’t it? But the truth is, we can experience the blessings of the Jubilee just as Israel did. Through his death and resurrection, Jesus has ushered in a new Jubilee—our redemption—that we can experience here and now.

Slaves set free. Because Jesus has defeated sin and death, we can be freed from our slavery to sin and iniquity. So let’s rejoice that we can overcome self-centeredness and experience the freedom to love God and love our neighbor.

Debts cancelled. By his resurrection, Jesus has cancelled the debt we owed to God and each other because of our sin (Colossians 2:14). When he forgave us, he wiped the slate clean. We might need to work to restore the harm we have caused someone, but that work of restoration can be a marvelous experience of healing and freedom. So let’s rejoice that God has cancelled our debts and opened the door for healing.

Families reunited. Through his Spirit, Jesus has made it possible for us to live in love. In a time when families seem more divided than ever, it’s encouraging to know that Jesus can help us reconcile. It’s not always easy, but through prayer and humility, we can discover his power to heal even long-standing wounds.

You don’t have to wait for heaven; you don’t even have to wait fifty years! Jesus is your source of restoration and rest—today. He has given all of us the grace to live in the freedom of the children of God!

“Thank you, Jesus, for fulfilling God’s promise of Jubilee!”

Psalm 67:2-3, 5, 7-8
Matthew 14:1-12
Leviticus 25:1, 8-17

WORD AMONG US