The Daily Devotional
Saturday, December 28, 2024
Guided by the Light of Freedom
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor. (Luke 4:18-19)
Introduction
Harriet Tubman, often called "Moses of her people," dedicated her life to fulfilling this mission of release and freedom. Even after leading countless enslaved people to liberty through the Underground Railroad, she did not rest. During her final years, Tubman embarked on what many consider her last mission—a campaign to establish a home for aging and destitute freed slaves. Her story reflects God’s calling to liberate the oppressed and care for the vulnerable.
Reflection
Harriet Tubman’s life was one of extraordinary courage and faith. With unwavering trust in God, she navigated perilous paths, following the "North Star" and often praying for divine guidance. Her last mission was not only about physical freedom but also about creating a space of dignity and care for those who had been cast aside by society.
A woman who had guided so many to freedom once sat beside an elderly man, feeding him and comforting him in his final days. Someone asked, “Why do you still give so much when you’ve already done so much?” Tubman replied, “I always listen for the Lord’s call. He says, ‘Keep going.’”
Her faith propelled her into the relentless service of others. Tubman never viewed her acts of compassion as burdens; she saw them as opportunities to bring God’s Kingdom closer to earth.
Application
We may not face the same trials Harriet Tubman endured, but we are all called to bring freedom and restoration in our own ways.
Identify the oppressed around you. Whether it’s someone struggling with loneliness, poverty, or injustice, prayerfully seek ways to help.
Use your resources for God’s work. Like Harriet Tubman used her last years and personal savings to establish a home for others, consider how your time, talents, or finances can be used to bless others.
Walk by faith, not by fear. Harriet trusted God in every decision, even when the path seemed impossible. Trust God to guide your steps today.
Conclusion
Harriet Tubman’s last mission reminds us that freedom in Christ is both spiritual and practical. As we celebrate her legacy, may we be inspired to embody the same faith, courage, and compassion in our daily lives. The Spirit of the Lord is upon us too—let us go and do the work He has anointed us for.
Prayer
Gracious and liberating God, thank You for the example of Harriet Tubman, whose faith and courage remind us of Your boundless love for the oppressed. Anoint us with Your Spirit to bring freedom and healing to those around us. Show us how to use our gifts to proclaim Your good news and to create spaces of hope and restoration. Help us to walk in faith, trusting Your guidance in every step. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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