Jesus’ encounter with the Pharisees exposed the greatest danger of religion– turning faith from a vital relationship to a burdensome ritual. The Pharisees shifted the focus from the privilege of enjoying God to the necessity of pleasing God. Jesus said God gave the Sabbath not as an obligation to burden us, but as a gift to bless us. Ironically the Pharisees’ understanding of Sabbath made it the hardest day of the week. Spiritual vitality depends on our breaking from the busyness of daily business to make time and space for our souls. What does Sabbath-keeping look like? Rest from our work, showing mercy to our neighbors, and walking in fellowship with our Lord.
