Lent Meditation February 27: Being Faithful within Reason
Judges 13:1-14
Mark 2:23-3:6
Hebrews 5:1-10
In Judges 13, the Israelites are once again in trouble and under the Philistines for forty years. The wife, name unknown, of a man named Manoah was visited by the angel of the Lord. Although she was barren, the angel informed her that she would have a son who would deliver the Israelites from the Philistines. Manoah prayed that the angel come back, which he did, and reiterated the charge, including no wine or strong drink.
In Mark, the disciples pluck heads of grain on the Sabbath. This troubled the Pharisees, as did Jesus’ healing the hand of a man in the synagogue.
Finally, in Hebrews the author discusses what it means to be a high priest. High priests are called by God and have considerable duties. First, they must be Christ-like. Just as Jesus did not glorify himself, nor should they. Because the high priests are not perfect, they must atone for their own sins, as well as their flock.
These passages show that God is faithful and we need to be also. God gives Manoah a son who delivers the Israelites. Jesus and the disciples irk the Pharisees for feeding the hungry and healing on the Sabbath. And we are given instruction on our faithfulness.
What astounds me is the Sabbath. While “keeping it holy” is certainly something I try to do, it isn’t always easy. If Roger, Tara or Linda get stressed out before the sermon, are they keeping it holy? If I work, or cook, or do dishes, am I keeping it holy? I assure you during football season, I am often anything by holy. Fortunately Roger (our high priest?) does not call me out on this and I don’t know of any Pharisees who will either. Jesus is terribly upset by hard hearts. We must strive, no matter what day of the week it is, to follow God and remain faithful to him.
Prayer: Loving God, we praise you for sending your Son. We thank you for being faithful to us even when we’re not faithful to you. Be with us today, throughout Lent, and in our future. Amen
Jim Rhodes
