(How does today’s Gospel speak to me during this lockdown? Allow
me to share with you my humble reflection.)
Then he said to them, “The sabbath was made for humankind,
and not humankind for the sabbath.” (Mark 2,27)
Another scandal! This time, the disciples are gleaning crops as they walk in order to feed
themselves. However, it’s the Sabbath (Saturday) and harvesting is not
permitted on this day of rest. For the Pharisees, strict observance of
the Sabbath is part of Jewish identity. Jesus responds with a pithy
sentence. He reminds them that
the law of God is not an absolute, but that it exists for the good of humankind.
Oh, the law! It’s a topic of intense discussion these days. Some
argue that the government does not have the right to restrict their freedom by
enacting regulations such as curfews. Others point out that "the law is
the law" and must be obeyed at all costs. Occasionally, I find myself
ambivalent. Maybe I need to remind myself that what matters ultimately is the
good of others; and that during a pandemic, the common good consists primarily in
the protection of life.
Abba,
Father, make me understand that the world does not revolve around me. May my
obedience to government regulations become a sign of my love for all my
brothers and sisters. What Jesus says about the Sabbath can also apply to me: I
was made for others, and not others for me. Teach me the law of love!
Amen.
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