Tarsish Marak csc.
Readings: 1 Sam 17:32-33,37,40-51; Mk 3: 1-6
Jesus heals a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath, confronting legalistic attitudes. This gospel passage invites us to reflect on our own lives. Often, we tend to embrace traditionalist perspectives. Healing on Sabbath day was against mosaic law.
But Jesus, transcends this law and gives a new commandment which is to love our neighbours. This commandment is not to love when people need but we are invited to share our love with others in all circumstances. Therefore, healing on Sabbath day is not a sin, it is a compassionate response to a person’s genuine need. Let us not be bound by rules at the expense of mercy. We need to reach out to those people who need our assistance.
Jesus, in today’s gospel, serves as an exemplar, breaking the law to address contemporary needs. Therefore, we need to act according to the signs of the time. Acknowledging the inevitable challenges when advocating for others, we recognize this as the father’s mission—to free captives, assist the poor, and uplift the lowly.
With trust and confidence in God, we can overcome the challenges in all the circumstances of our lives. Christ stands by us. The Sabbath is a day of rest and a day to emulate and exercise Jesus’ love and healing. Let our actions be guided by compassion, recognizing that sometimes, breaking the frame to extend love is the truest expression of faith.