Rigidity is something that can be problematic in many ways in every aspect of our lives. It creates social isolation and loneliness, not to mention physical and psychological problems. Rigidity thrives on “It is my way or the highways”, thus one becoming too controlling and judgmental. In the long run, it pushes others away because there is no space for flexibility or adaptability.
I am not suggesting that there aren't certain boundaries and principles and values to hold. But excessive adherence to strict rules can stifle creativity and prevent personal growth that comes from experiencing new perspectives and venturing out of one’s comfort zones.
Advocating for Mercy
It is that kind of mindset that Jesus is up against in today’s gospel. Religious leaders are up in arms for Jesus letting his disciples pick ears of corn as they went along through a cornfield on a Sabbath, an action that was forbidden on the Sabbath. The disciples of Jesus were scolded by the Scribes and Pharisees, not for plucking and eating corn from the fields, but doing it on the Sabbath.
Jesus’ responds by emphasizing that, human need has precedence over rituals and strict legalism. He references the story of David and his men eating the consecrated bread which was strictly reserved for Priests in the temple. Jesus teaches, that withholding mercy and kindness in response to human need is not part of God’s intention for us to keep the rules.
Seeing People First
Whereas the starting point of the Pharisees was the Law, Jesus’ starting point was always the human condition, the situation of the human person, what needed doing for that at that time. For Jesus all law including religious law, is at the service of the total well-being of people and when it works against the well-being of people, it deserves to be ignored. That is why the Sabbath was made for man not the other way round. Jesus challenged the rigid observation of the law by the Pharisees while they ignored extending mercy and compassion to others.
- We can all be tempted to get wrapped up in following religious laws to the detriment of being merciful and compassionate.
- We can get stuck in “the church teaching is this and it is all or nothing”. That kind of attitude or approach takes us away from being true witnesses to Jesus’ gospel values.
- Sabbath law or any religious law must not be allowed to prevent people from satisfying their basic physical needs.
- We are invited to trust in Jesus’ wisdom and guidance above all else by recognizing him as the Lord of Sabbath.
- Following Jesus faithfully may require us to reevaluate our attitudes towards and understanding of rules to align ourselves with the principles of love, compassion and mercy we see in the Jesus’ way of life.
- We need to be mindful of God’s presence in situations that impel our attention and action over the inflexibility tied to rules.
Jesus is inviting us to approach his teachings with a spirit of openness and humility, to let him enlighten us and lead us on our journey of discovering God’s will. Sabbath is meant for our benefit, to refresh and renew us in living for God. Saint Irenaeus put its so well, “that the glory of God is the human person fully alive.”
- Father Fulgen's inspirational homily was recorded live during Mass at the Father Peyton Center this morning. You can view the Mass (at the 30-minute mark) on the Family Rosary YouTube page.
- To join the Rosary and Mass Livestream, visit the Family Rosary YouTube or Facebook page at 11:30 a.m. Eastern, Monday – Friday. Consider inviting others to join too! (*If you are not a member of Facebook and a signup window appears, simply select the X at the top of the pop-up message and continue to the livestream.)
