Being Real Rather Than Religious

Scripture – Luke 6:6-11: 6On another Sabbath he went into the synagogue and was teaching, and a man was there whose right hand was shriveled. 7The Pharisees and the teachers of the law were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal on the Sabbath. 8But Jesus knew what they were thinking and said to the man with the shriveled hand, “Get up and stand in front of everyone.” So he got up and stood there. 9Then Jesus said to them, “I ask you, which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?” 10He looked around at them all, and then said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He did so, and his hand was completely restored. 11But they were furious and began to discuss with one another what they might do to Jesus.

Reflection: Here’s another Sabbath scene. This time it looks like a set-up. We don’t know if the Jewish leaders planted the man with the shriveled hand, but they were ready to find fault.

Jesus, of course, knew what was going on. He always does. It took me a long time to finally realize I can’t hide anything from Him. That was really the beginning of grace for me. For I recognized that, knowing everything about me, He loves me.

Well, Jesus called the man up front and asked a simple question. Basically he asked if it’s better to be religious or to be real. Here’s a person in need. I have the means to help him whether it’s time for church or not. What’s the question?

Again, this was what got Jesus in trouble. This is part of the cross He accepted for me and you. He kept His purpose clear no matter what opposition He faced. How real will I be today?

An Invitation: A small group will be meeting this coming Sunday morning from 9:45 – 10:30am to share what we’ve learned and seen in this week’s readings. We meet in the Pastor’s office at Bethel Baptist Church, 13330 Trenton Road in Southgate. Everyone’s welcome to join us.