February 5

Matthew 12:1-14 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

Matth 12: 7, 10a, 12b

And if you had known what this means, 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the guiltless... And a man was there with a withered hand. And they asked him, "Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?"... "It is lawful to do good on the Sabbath."

Observation

Jesus said that he came not to abolish the law but to fulfill them. In an apparent contradiction, his disciples were seen breaking the law. While Pharisees spoke of others and their ourward actions (Jesus' disciples), Jesus spoke of the need for us to inwardly examine ourselves and our relationship with God. The Pharisees were following the letter of the law and not the spirit.

As if there was any doubt, they question Jesus to accuse him in the very next scene. They ignored Jesus' teaching that God desires mercy. They focused on sacrifice, especially since the cost of the sacrifice had to be borne by the man with the withered hand. Jesus gives the complete answer of fulfilling the law, " It is lawful to do good on the Sabbath."

Application

How often do I hold others to accountability that I do not hold myself to? God wants my sacrifice - offer up ourselves as living sacrifice - and he desires mercy. He wants me to encourage others rather than tear them down. He wants us to be convicted, not condemned. I will not condem another person today but listen to how the Holy Spirit might use me to help convict them of God's love and mercy.

Prayer

Lord, I can't help myself. I am a sinner and I find myself judging and condemning others. I don't want to follow my sinful nature but want to be transformed by your Spirit. Cause me to stop, listen and follow your Spirit today. Use me to fulfill your perfect law that brings healing and conviction to everyone.

--Jason Kim