Have you ever felt torn between obeying God’s commands and meeting the needs of others? What if you were faced with a situation where fulfilling one seemed to contradict the other?
Reconnect:
As we delve into Luke 6:1-11, we find Jesus challenging traditional interpretations of Sabbath while emphasizing its essence and purpose. This narrative flows seamlessly from the preceding chapters of Luke’s gospel, where Jesus’ ministry unfolds amidst controversy and opposition from religious leaders.
(Summarized and continued after scripture)
Jesus Is Lord of the Sabbath
1Now it happened that He was passing through some grainfields on a Sabbath; and His disciples were picking the heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands, and eating the grain. 2But some of the Pharisees said, “Why do you do what is not lawful on the Sabbath?” 3And Jesus answering them said, “Have you not even read what David did when he was hungry, he and those who were with him, 4how he entered the house of God, and took and ate the consecrated bread which is not lawful for any to eat except the priests alone, and gave it to his companions?” 5And He was saying to them, “The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.”
6On another Sabbath He entered the synagogue and was teaching; and there was a man there whose right hand was withered. 7The scribes and the Pharisees were watching Him closely to see if He healed on the Sabbath, so that they might find reason to accuse Him. 8But He knew what they were thinking, and He said to the man with the withered hand, “Get up and come forward!” And he got up and came forward. 9And Jesus said to them, “I ask you, is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the Sabbath, to save a life or to destroy it?” 10After looking around at them all, He said to him, “Stretch out your hand!” And he did so; and his hand was restored. 11But they themselves were filled with rage, and discussed together what they might do to Jesus.
Summary Key Points:
- Jesus affirms the importance of Sabbath rest while demonstrating His authority over it, teaching us that Sabbath was made for our benefit (Mark 2:27-28).
- We’re called to avoid becoming legalistic in our observance of Sabbath, recognizing that it’s intended for rest and restoration, yet being open to meeting genuine needs that may arise (Luke 6:1-11).
- Our understanding of Sabbath should align with its purpose—to honor God’s commandment while also showing compassion and meeting the needs of others (Exodus 20:8-11).
Call to Action:
- Embrace Sabbath as a gift from God, setting aside time for rest and spiritual rejuvenation.
- Seek discernment from the Holy Spirit to recognize genuine needs that may arise on Sabbath, being open to extending help and compassion when appropriate.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of Sabbath, a time for rest and restoration. Grant us wisdom to honor Your commandments while also being sensitive to the needs of those around us. May our observance of Sabbath reflect Your love and compassion. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.
John Golda
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