Slices
Prepare
Are there aspects of your life or our world where you think God has no role or interest? Name them now and ask him to speak into those spaces.
Bible passage
Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath
23 One Sabbath Jesus was going through the cornfields, and as his disciples walked along, they began to pick some ears of corn. 24 The Pharisees said to him, ‘Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath?’
25 He answered, ‘Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need? 26 In the days of Abiathar the high priest, he entered the house of God and ate the consecrated bread, which is lawful only for priests to eat. And he also gave some to his companions.’
27 Then he said to them, ‘The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. 28 So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.’
Explore
Yesterday, Jesus seemed dismissive of fasting. Today, he seems to attack Sabbath observance. What is this guy on about? Is there no aspect of Jewish life and faith that he respects?
The Pharisees were hyper-vigilant about keeping every tiny aspect of the Law. They saw their relationship with God almost entirely through the lens of strict observance. This included creating new rules and constraints to supplement and expand what scripture required. They wanted to eliminate the risk of disobeying God. Yet this attention to detail blinded them to the real issue at stake: we cannot earn God’s favour.
God loves us. He longs for us to love him. He always wants what is best for us. He is full of mercy and grace. Just look at Jesus to see his heart in action. The Sabbath was a gift, not a straitjacket. It was meant to bring rest and joy, not judgement and guilt. It provided time and headspace to worship, pray and enjoy the love of family and community. It was given for us!
Respond
Are there areas of your life where you are trying to win God’s favour? He loves you as you are and has sent his Spirit to enable you to become more like Jesus as you journey through life. Take this as a liberating gift.
Bible in a year
Read the Bible in a year: Genesis 20,21; Matthew 8
Pray for Scripture Union
As we enter another year, pray that our Bible reading guides will continue to serve readers. Ask that through them, readers will gain new insights and find daily comfort and challenge, growing in their relationship with God and serving him effectively.
