The Question about the Sabbath Luke 6:1-5
Imaginative Contemplation
Enter into the scene
I imagine I am with Jesus as he follows a path through the corn fields. Jesus has just been confronted by the Pharisees on a technicality about fasting. Such encounters are very draining. It seems that a full stop or a comma is more important than the words and ideas being discussed. Surely laws are made to help us move forward in right relationships?
This time the Pharisees are following Jesus’ companions, looking for something to argue about. And of course, they found something. Criticizing the disciples for ‘working’ on the Sabbath, they demanded that the disciples stop picking the left-over grain from the harvest and eating it. Collecting the gleanings is explicitly allowed in the Scriptures. The disciples stopped eating, confused and humiliated. I could sense a darkness, a heaviness, rolling over the little group, while the leaders, triumphant and disapproving, looked to see how Jesus was reacting.
With a heavy sigh, Jesus murmured to the disciples, ‘Don’t say anything. I’ll reply to them.’
Quoting the scriptures, Jesus reminded these learned men of how David behaved when he and his followers were hungry. David recognised the difference between the letter and the spirit of the Law, and acted in right judgement.
And to cap it all, Jesus said to the accusers, ‘the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath!’
The Pharisees went away furious, while the disciples thanked Jesus for supporting them.
For further reflection
Discuss with Jesus the following points:
· The interpretation of the Law, of any law, is a delicate matter. It calls for discernment.
· Rules are important. Their aim is to ensure the greater good. E.g. Traffic laws keep the roads safe.
· What is my attitude towards rules and regulations?
· Do I look for the spirit behind the words?
· Are there rules in my life that need to change?
· Are there rules in my life that I need to ponder and keep?
· Do I try to ‘get away with things’? How could this affect others?
Prayer
Lord, you instruct us to keep the commandments of God. Help me to understand the difference between laws set down by God and human laws which can change with circumstances over time. Amen.