Mark 2:24-26

And the Pharisees said to Him, “Look, why do they do what is not lawful on the Sabbath?” But He said to them, “Have you never read what David did when he was in need and hungry, he and those with him: how he went into the house of God in the days of Abiathar the high priest, and ate the showbread, which is not lawful to eat except for the priests, and also gave some to those who were with him?”

Mark 2:24-26

Jesus teaches us that the heart of God’s law is love and compassion, not rigid rule-keeping. He emphasizes that “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.”(Vs 27) This reveals God’s desire for our wellbeing and reminds us that religious observances should draw us closer to God and others, not create barriers.

So how are we exercising our own spiritual practices on a daily basis. Are there any areas where we’ve become overly rigid or legalistic? How can you shift your focus to the heart behind these practices – growing in love for God and others? Ask God to guide you by His Holy Spirit to help you see His heart of mercy in the midst of His commands. Then you too can walk in His abounding love for you and for others.

Pastor Wade O’Neill