Rules and Reasons: Read Matt 12:1-15
Contemplation
We are absolutely starving. It’s a hot day, and we haven’t stopped walking. In desperation, we nibble some of the plants in one of the fields - the grain temptingly brushing across our faces as we walk. “Hey! What are you doing!” The angry voice belongs to one of the community leaders. “Don’t you know this is a rest day? You can’t do that!” Jesus stands up for us. “Rules are about people. Even priests and kings know that they don’t always apply.
People’s needs come first, and who knows that better than the One who God sent.” The religious leaders are very angry now. Back in the cool of the synagogue, Jesus makes the point again. A man whose arm is shrunk comes up to Jesus, groaning, and stretches it out for Jesus to heal. He touches it and the arm is better. Although he feels wonderful, the leaders are unhappy. “This is a day of rest,” they grumble. Jesus gently points out that they would pull a work animal out of a pit on a rest day. Why won’t they help a person? They are even less happy now – especially as he goes out, healing other people on his way. They want to kill him.
What does all this criticism feel like?
Can I stand up for what I know is right – even when the rules seem to say something different?
Do I put people first?
Where is Jesus when I face complaints because I make decisions I know are right?