The Sabbath Is for Hungry and Hurting People

Text: Luke 6:1-11 Theme: Jesus demonstrated the real purpose of the Sabbath. Key verses: “Now it happened on the second Sabbath after the first that He went through the grainfields. And His disciples plucked the heads of grain and ate them.” (v. 1) “Jesus answering them said, ‘Have you not even read this, what David did when he was hungry…how he went into the house of God, took and ate the showbread, and also gave some to those with him…?’ And He said to them, ‘The Son of Man is also Lord of the Sabbath.'” (v. 3-5) “Now it happened on another Sabbath, also, that He entered the synagogue and taught. And a man was there whose right hand was withered…Jesus said to them, ‘…Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?’…He said to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand.’…his hand was restored as whole as the other.” (v. 6-10) What God said to me: Dwayne, your title and theme says it clearly today. People can get distorted and misdirected ideas about my commandments and my will. They can forget that the real purpose of obedience is to help people, while also honoring me. Observing my laws and directives should always result in ministry to and protection for those I died for. That is precisely why you, Dwayne, can earn a living working every Sunday, yet still “keep it holy.” Your work is to do good and save life. If you ever approach your music as just a job, or only as a way to gratify your own selfish needs, then it leaves the realm of ministry and disgresses to breaking my commands and displeasing me. Constantly keep yourself in check: Why do you go each week and stand up to lead and sing? What are your motives? The Sabbath should feed and help others and give them hope. It should become the day of rest from someone’s burdens and searching. You have the hope inside you. Like Jesus, you have the freedom and the compelling to meet the needs of all who come through your doors at your church. They are there for help and hope. What could be more lawful? What I said to God: Lord, thank You for this powerful Word this morning. I really need to check my motives from week to week. Sometimes honestly, I get up and go only because I am getting paid and have to be there. Forgive this ugly motivation before You. Please fill me with Your Spirit today and guide me. How I would love to share my faith in You with someone else today. Today could someone’s Sabbath when they discover You and Your awesome rest!