Then he said to them, “The Son of Man is lord of the sabbath.”

Luke 6:5

Luke 6:1-5

Reflection

Jesus’ disciples are picking and eating grain on the sabbath, which was unlawful. The Pharisees ask Jesus why they are doing this, and Jesus replies that David went into the house of God and ate the priest’s bread, which was technically unlawful. He then says that the Son of Man is lord of the sabbath.

Jesus asserts his authority over human law. He himself is the lord of the sabbath, and not technical rules. The Pharisees do not understand this. Of course, it is good and necessary to follow technical rules of the Church; for example, fasting one hour before receiving the Eucharist. Following the small things is a good practice. Yet Jesus also reminds us that worshiping him and looking at the big picture is also beneficial.

We must always remember that Christ is Lord, and making sure to follow in his footsteps and listen to his commands is what brings us closer to him. How can you honor Jesus as Lord of the sabbath today?

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Saint of the Day

St. Teresa of Calcutta: 1910 – 1997

“Love begins at home, and destruction and hatred begin at home also.” Mother Teresa