“And he said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.”
Mark 2:23-3:6
The “Sabbath rest” was meant to be a time to remember and celebrate God’s goodness and the goodness of his work, both in creation and redemption. It was a day set apart for the praise of God, his work of creation, and his saving actions on our behalf. It was intended to bring everyday work to a halt and to provide needed rest and refreshment.
Withholding mercy and kindness in response to human need was not part of God’s intention that we rest from unnecessary labor.
Jesus healed on the Sabbath, and he showed mercy to those in need. All who are burdened and weary can find true rest and refreshment in him.
Lord Jesus, may I give you fitting honor in the way I live my life and in the way I treat my neighbor. May I honor the Lord’s Day as a day holy to you. And may I always treat others with the same mercy and kindness which you have shown to me. (Don Schwager)