The Game Changer
Scripture Reading — Mark 2:23-28
“The Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath.”
Mark 2:28
Abraham Lincoln was considered a great leader because he knew how to interpret the changing times. Someone said that Lincoln “was summoned by events he did not initiate and was exposed to conditions he did not create, but his response was so powerful an interpretation of events that it reshaped the conditions in which they originated.” In other words, Lincoln’s response to the changing events of the Civil War helped to maintain the union of a fragile nation. And that changed history.
Jesus’ response about the Sabbath changed the game for us all.
The Pharisees considered themselves the gatekeepers of the law. They felt it was up to them to make sure people followed many, many laws. Why? Because that way people would be righteous (right with God). But they got so caught up in their laws that the Sabbath became a measuring stick for righteousness instead of a day of worship, joy, and rest in the Lord.
Jesus reconnected the purpose of the Sabbath to its original intent—that is, to notice God, worship, and enjoy him. Jesus’ conversation changed the game from nitpicking legalism to following the Master and his ways.
The game has been changed. Jesus is Lord over all things. Enjoy him. Rest in him. Eat with him. Let Jesus be Lord over your life.
Jesus, I have a tendency to point out peoples’ shortcomings instead of walking in complete freedom with you. Forgive me, Lord, and help me to help others find rest in you. Amen.
About the author — Reginald Smith
Dr. Reginald Smith is senior pastor at Roosevelt Park Community Christian Reformed Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he has served for seventeen years. He has also served as a pastor in Paterson, New Jersey. He and his wife, Sharon, have three daughters, Janelle, Katrina, and Mariah.
Start your day with quick daily devotions.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!