If given the choice, everyone would want a good place to live and live. Perhaps no one would consciously choose less than ideal places to live in, unless there was no other choice or there was something undeniable that made someone live in a bad environment and situation. Now we see Jesus choosing to go to a place that was considered ‘less than ideal’, namely Galilee. He realized that to begin preaching about salvation and the kingdom of heaven, He must begin with those who needed Him most.
In the Gospel of Matthew, we see Jesus begin His ministry in Galilee after John the Baptist was imprisoned. This decision was not only a strategic move, but also the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light” (Isaiah 9: 1a). Jesus’ steps toward Galilee show that the light of God’s salvation is not limited to Jerusalem, but is for everyone, including non-Jewish nations. Galilee is called the territory of the Gentiles. After being conquered by Assyria (2 Kings 15:29), the inhabitants of Galilee lived mixed with immigrants from other nations. To that poor and dark region, the prophet Isaiah had delivered a prophecy of hope about the birth of a Prince of Peace (Isaiah 8:23-9:6). The writer of Matthew saw that Isaiah's prophecy was fulfilled in Jesus' arrival in Galilee and His move to Capernaum. Galilee was not the place expected for the Messiah to begin His mission, but Jesus chose this place as the center of his ministry, showing that God's love extends to all people regardless of status or background.
The message that the Lord Jesus delivered to the people of Galilee was about repentance, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!" (Matthew 4:17). This call emphasized a change of heart and life, in response to the coming of the Kingdom of God. Jesus continued John's mission, but with greater authority, because He was the promised Messiah. Jesus was called the "great light" who enlightened those living in the shadow of death. His presence brings hope, restoration, and new life to those who are lost and desperate.
Bible friends, this story should make us even happier because we choose Jesus as our Lord and Savior. He is present to greet the most marginalized of all humans and to give hope to those who dare not hope. This reality should make us grow into His obedient and faithful children. Living in truth and choosing to always obey Him. So let us ask for God's help so that we are enabled to live in His love and grace.
