Text: Mark 2:23-28
Prayer Pointers:
For courage to believe
For courage to be free
For those who seek Sabbath rest
WHAT TO DO WITH A FENCE? The English author G.K. Chesterton said that when you came upon a fence, before you tear it down or otherwise violate it, you’d better determine why it was erected in the first place. Let what you learn dictate what you do.
Jesus was well aware of the wisdom that Chesterton would merrily pronounce centuries later. His goal was somewhat different, however: the people of God had forgotten the purpose of religious fences, but had determined that if one fence was good, then lots of fences were many times better.
Jesus enters into the world to show again the purpose for fences, and to do away with those that, far from honoring God, show only that the people have forgotten whose they are. Paul would echo this thought in his letter to the Galatians: For freedom Christ has set us free; so stand firm! Our freedom is found in Jesus Christ, and it is his yoke we bear. Trusting him, we find we are truly free.
How soon we forge again
The fetters of our past.
As long as Jesus lives in us
So long our freedoms last.
So on this joyful day,
from needless burdens freed—
We keep the feast he gave to us
To fit our inmost need.
May your day be grace-filled ~ Pr. Dave Brooks