By Akshi Wary csc.
Readings: Rom 9:1-5; Lk 14:1-6
In the days of Jesus, there were people so concerned about keeping the law that they forgot the true purpose of the Sabbath, which was to benefit God’s people. Their main goal was as always to trap Jesus into breaking some laws, and to find out what wrong he was doing.
Today’s gospel highlights the differences between Jesus’ compassion and Pharisees’ legalism. Jesus saw a man who suffered, and he demonstrated the grace and mercy of God to him by healing him on the Sabbath. This act of Jesus challenges us to think about how we can show compassion to those who are suffering, even if it means breaking with tradition or going against the laws.
Jesus’s message of love and compassion is a reminder that we should always prioritize helping others in need. God’s love is always greater than rules and laws. Let us pray, that God may grant us the courage and strength to follow the example of our master that we do not hesitate to extend our help to those who are really in need.