Definition: But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 4:25. It’s a really important passage about Jesus’s journey and the incredible faith he had. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus was telling people that many people were suffering in Israel back then – around 700 years ago – when the weather was incredibly bad. It was a time of great hardship and famine. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "But I tell you of a truth..." : Jesus is sharing something important with people. He's not just saying a random thing; he's offering a truthful explanation. "...many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias..." : This refers to a period during the 18th century BC when there was a severe drought and famine. "Elias" is a biblical name for Moses. The word “widows” means people who had lost their husbands or children, and they were often vulnerable and in need of help. "...when the heaven was shut up three years and six months..." : This highlights the severity of the drought. The heavens (the sky) were closed for a long time – three years and six months – which caused widespread suffering and hardship. It was a really bad time. "...when great famine was throughout all the land." : This is the core of the story. The land was barren, crops failed, people were starving, and there was a lot of misery everywhere. So, what does this verse mean in relation to Jesus? Jesus was telling people that he had experienced hardship and suffering during this time. It's a powerful message about: Compassion: Jesus recognized the pain of others and felt empathy for those who were struggling. His own struggle: He is showing us that he wasn’t perfect, and he too had challenges and difficulties. This makes him more relatable and human. Why is this important? This verse is a foundational part of the story of Jesus's journey to fulfill his mission: to be the Savior and bring hope to those in need. It shows that God cares deeply about people, and He isn’t just concerned with the grandest events; He also has compassion for the small struggles of ordinary people. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific part of this verse in more detail? Discuss what it might mean in terms of Jesus's purpose?