The Sabbath and Man
Samuel 16:1–13; Psalm 89; Mark 2:23–28
“The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.” Jesus made this statement in response to the accusation raised by the Pharisees. For them, the disciples of Jesus were breaking the law of the Sabbath by plucking heads of grain.
The response of Jesus shows that the Sabbath was intended to help, not hinder. Beloved, there is more to Christianity than mere observance of the law of the Sabbath. Catechism makes us understand that works of necessity and mercy are legal on a Sabbath day. It is right and just to save a life at the sacrifice of Sunday worship. One’s life is far more important than rituals. Remember the parable of the Good Samaritan?
A letter to the Hebrews says, “God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love you have demonstrated for his name by having served and continuing to serve the holy ones” (Heb. 6:10). Man capitalizes on the law; God maximizes love.
The first reading reminds us that “the Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1Sam 16:7).Let your heart be broken, not your garment torn (Joel 2:13). Christianity is about love, not robes.
Let us pray.
God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, help us not to be judgmental; help us to see the good in all of your creation. May we not obstruct your kindness and love by reason of laws. May we grow better this year! Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
