The Whole Story: A Life in God's Kingdom, Part OneSample

Daily Reflection: In First Century Judaism, any work done on the Sabbath was unlawful and frowned upon by society. The Sabbath is an important practice for God’s people as it is a time in which they can rest in God’s faithfulness as he settles in amongst them. For this reason, it was frowned upon to do anything on the Sabbath except for keeping one’s focus on God. Little did these people know, however, that Jesus was their Sabbath rest. Yet again, Jesus turns this concept upside-down as he brings his disciples to a grain field to pick grain on the Sabbath for their needs. This was common practice for traveling folks outside of the Sabbath day. When challenged, however, Jesus’ response is to teach the Pharisees a critical lesson: the Sabbath exists to set the priority on God himself, not to blind his family from the work of God in front of their faces. Notice, Jesus did not condemn the Sabbath – it continues to be an essential practice of God’s people. Jesus, instead, focused their attention on him as their Sabbath rest.

Daily Demonstration: There are traditions and habits – which are meant for good – that can quickly become things that pull God’s family away from a deeper relationship with him. As you fast today, reflect upon the habits of your life that are meant for good but may have become stumbling blocks for your relationship with God. Do you need to revamp your devotional time? Do you need to serve in a new capacity? Do you need to make revisions to your work schedule? Ask God to search your heart – there is no better time than in the middle of a season of prayer and fasting!