“For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings.”
Hosea 6:6
Many religious traditions find identity in what they do not do. Some forbid eating pork or other meat. Some say don’t drink wine, alcohol, or caffeine. Others mandate fasting, arranged marriages, or Sabbath-keeping.
The Pharisees in Jesus’ day were rigid about keeping the Sabbath and confronted Jesus regarding it. Jesus showed them from Scripture that while there are “do not” commands, devotion to God also involves what we must do. Keeping the Sabbath should be positive, not negative. Jesus acknowledges the Sabbath and the need for rest. But the disciples lifting grain from the stalk to their mouths was no more work than eating from a plate, which, of course, was allowed. When starving, David and his men ate bread consecrated to the priests because saving lives mattered more than observing rules.
As we live out our faith remembering we are saved by Christ from sin and death, we’re grateful and joyful. Let’s be marked by what we do: encouraging one another, loving one another, and showing the grace we’ve been shown.
The Pharisees in Jesus’ day were rigid about keeping the Sabbath and confronted Jesus regarding it. Jesus showed them from Scripture that while there are “do not” commands, devotion to God also involves what we must do. Keeping the Sabbath should be positive, not negative. Jesus acknowledges the Sabbath and the need for rest. But the disciples lifting grain from the stalk to their mouths was no more work than eating from a plate, which, of course, was allowed. When starving, David and his men ate bread consecrated to the priests because saving lives mattered more than observing rules.
As we live out our faith remembering we are saved by Christ from sin and death, we’re grateful and joyful. Let’s be marked by what we do: encouraging one another, loving one another, and showing the grace we’ve been shown.
Scripture Focus
Leviticus 24:5-9; Matthew 12:1-8
Insight
“What does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)
Bible In A Year
- Jeremiah 21-22
- Psalm 114
- 1 Corinthians 3-4
