On a Sabbath Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues, and a woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten up at all. When Jesus saw her, he called her forward and said to her, “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” Then he put his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God.
Indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, the synagogue leader said to the people, “There are six days for work. So come and be healed on those days, not on the Sabbath.” Luke 13:10-14
Jesus confronted evil and sickness that had caused a woman great pain, embarrassment, and certainly difficulty in functioning day to day. He touched her. Yes, with just a touch and word, He healed her infirmity and challenged the spirit involved to some degree in her trouble. What an amazing victory for the kingdom of God and light and love. But, as often is the case, the religious leaders of the synagogue got it all wrong. They chided Jesus for healing on a Saturday. Their lack of understanding about who was in their midst, caused them to miss a miracle and to pick a fight with God.
Am I seeing the works of God with a proper perspective? Do I understand the difference between good and evil?
God, thank you that when I lack wisdom, You are gracious to provide it liberally, if only I will ask. Prompt me daily by Your Spirit to seek godly wisdom and not human understanding in discerning good and evil. I know You are performing even greater good deeds through Your people in the world today. Thank you for Jesus’ example. If I am punished for good deeds, at least I am in good company!
