Friday, January 24, 2014

January 24 Devotion

Read Mark 3:1-12


Teaching in this synagogue on the Sabbath Jesus discovered a sad reality:  Courage is rare.


Jesus asked a question that everyone could answer with certainty:

"Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?"


Everyone knew that to do good and save life was certainly a righteous thing to do.

But they remained silent. Afraid. Stubborn. No one dared side with Jesus.


The lack of courage to speak up and lack of compassion for this man angered Jesus. Jesus was deeply distressed at just how stubborn and cold their hearts were. 

Could there be any tradition or legalistic rule that we are holding too tightly that may be preventing us from helping people with tender compassion? Jesus appeared in this scene to have very little patience for such stubborn insensitivity.  


Jesus healed anyway and then walked away. Those hungering for relief, help, and hope went with him. People still move in droves toward compassion, help, and relief.  People in need tend to stay clear from where they know that are not wanted. 

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