Homelessness is a growing problem in my city, and the causes are many: poverty, addiction, mental illness, poor personal choices, and more. All of these can be tied to the cosmic problem of sin—the effects of sin leech into every nook of society, wreaking social, psychological, and spiritual havoc everywhere.

This was also the case in ancient Israel. Generational debt could cripple a family, forcing them to sell long-held family land, or even forcing a family into a kind of slavery. But then every 50 years, the trumpet would sound, and social and economic burdens would be rolled back. During the year of Jubilee, land debts were erased, property was restored, and the people were to rest from their labors, trusting in God to provide everything they needed. Does this sound idealistic? In a way, it was.

There is no record in the Bible that Israel ever celebrated the Year of Jubilee. The law commanded it, and prophets proclaimed it, but the people may never have enjoyed the blessings of this great gift from God.

When Jesus began his ministry, he read from Isaiah 61 and declared a new Jubilee. His work on the cross would deal with the problems of our world at the deepest level—he would pay the penalty for sin and destroy the devil’s work in this world. Because of Jesus and his life, death, and resurrection, Jubilee is possible—and one day, when he returns, it will be realized fully for all who trust in him!