The scripture readings for this reflection can be found at https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/103020.cfm
In our gospel for
today, we see another confrontation between Jesus and the Pharisees and the
scholars of the law. In Jewish culture the
custom on the Sabbath was to avoid most every activity on the day dedicated to
the Lord God. Sabbath was to be a day of rest, a day of developing that
relationship with the Creator. The focus on the Sabbath was to be on God alone.
Jesus,
being God, knows the law better than anyone at that table, yet he decides to
proceed and do what is considered breaking the Sabbath rest. During dinner at
this Pharisees house, a man suffering from dropsy was brought in and he was
laid down in front of Jesus. Jesus did not immediately heal the man. First he
addressed the Pharisees and the scholars of the law who were present. He asked
them if it was proper or lawful to heal on the Sabbath. They do not reply; they
remain silent. Jesus then healed the man and sets him free of his infirmity!
Law is important in our world. The purpose and
intent of the law is to insure safety, security and peace for all people. But
at times, we may put the law before what is loving and healthy for an
individual, family or community. True, we may be keeping the “law” or “rule.”
However we may be breaking the greatest commandment: “Love your neighbor.”
When it comes to the law, Jesus makes it clear that
all law is subordinate to the one great law: that we are to love God and love
our neighbor as ourselves. We will never stray far from the path if we keep
this commandment.
Jesus,
today help us be mindful to use the “law” for the good of others and not just
to “keep the rules.” Today and every day may we follow your example!
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