The Sabbath, as discussed in our recent sermon, is a divine gift meant to heal and restore. At Lakeview Christian Church, we strive to “Be the change as Jesus has changed us” by understanding and living out this purpose. The Sabbath is not just a day of rest but a reflection of God’s heart for His people.
Jesus’ Healing on the Sabbath
The original purpose of the Sabbath was to heal and restore the human mind and body. Jesus exemplified this by healing on the Sabbath, demonstrating God’s compassion and mercy (Mark 3:1-6). His actions challenged the legalistic views of the Pharisees, who prioritized rules over people.
While the Pharisees focused on legalism, Jesus prioritized caring for people, embodying the true spirit of the Sabbath. He showed that the Sabbath is not about restrictions but about freedom—freedom to love, to heal, and to restore. His actions remind us that God’s heart is always for the well-being of His creation.
The Principle of Compassion Over Legalism
The Pharisees’ fury at Jesus’ actions highlights their misunderstanding of the Sabbath’s purpose. They were so focused on maintaining their rules that they missed the heart of God. Jesus’ actions teach us that compassion and mercy should guide our observance of God’s commands (Matthew 12:7).
In our own lives, we are called to prioritize people over rules, to extend grace and compassion to those around us. This means being willing to set aside our own agendas and preferences to meet the needs of others. It means being open to the leading of the Holy Spirit, who guides us in love and truth.
Application: Study, Share, Serve
- Study: Study the Gospels to understand Jesus’ teachings on the Sabbath and His acts of compassion. Reflect on how His example challenges and inspires you to live differently.
- Share: Share stories of how Jesus’ compassion has impacted your life, inspiring others to live with mercy. Testify to the ways God has used you to bring healing and restoration to others.
- Serve: Serve others by embodying the principles of the Sabbath, offering healing and restoration to those in need. This could be through acts of service, providing support to those who are struggling, or simply being a listening ear.
Conclusion
By embracing the true purpose of the Sabbath, we align our lives with Jesus’ teachings, fulfilling our mission to “Be the change.” Let us commit to living lives of compassion and mercy, reflecting the heart of God to a world in need.
Each blog post is designed to provide a comprehensive exploration of the sermon themes, encouraging readers to engage deeply with the message and apply it to their lives.
