The Evolution of Self-Ageing with Grace
July 17, 2025
Saturday July 19th: Remain Mission Focused
July 19, 2025
Every Sabbath invites us to pause and renew our relationship with God, with others and with creation.
Matthew 12: 1 – 8
In today’s gospel, Jesus declares, “The Son of Man is master of the Sabbath.” These words are not just a response to the Pharisees’ accusations; they are a revelation. The Sabbath was given by God as a gift, a time for rest, worship, and renewal. But the Pharisees had turned it into a burden, more about rules than relationship.
Jesus points to the actions of David and the priests on the Sabbath as exceptions which were allowed because mercy and need took precedence over ritual. Jesus is neither challenging the Sabbath nor trying to abolish it. He is restoring its true meaning, which are mercy, compassion, and communion with God.
The Sabbath was instituted by a loving, compassionate God, not a tyrant. To turn the Sabbath into mere rules is wrong. God responds to people, especially those who are needy or vulnerable.
Every Sabbath invites us to pause and renew our relationship with God, with others and with creation. This should not an option, but a necessary part of our week.
