Today's gospel account recounts one of the many encounters Jesus had with the Pharisees - those who were responsible for upholding the Jewish laws. It was a sabbath day and Jesus was in the synagogue (cf Lk 6:6) and there was also a man there who had a withered hand. The Pharisees and scribes knew that Jesus had performed miracles, so they were watching him to see whether he would break the Jewish law that calls for rest on the sabbath.
Herein lies the problem: the Pharisees were so hung up on keeping the law that there was no room in their hearts for compassion. Whether we want to admit it or not, there are times when we too are like the Pharisees. It's just easier sometimes to hide behind the law rather than going out to the people who need to encounter compassion, acceptance and love.
Be attentive today to the situations that God unfolds. Try to ask yourself: Am I trying to hide ... or is there a way that I can be compassionate toward the person that is standing before me? How is God challenging me to go out to his people today?
Have a great day.
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