9 September, 2023 | Saturday of the 22nd Week in Ordinary Time

 Lk 6:1-5

Trying hard to be assertive?

Gospel Text:

While Jesus was going through a field of grain on a sabbath,

his disciples were picking the heads of grain,

rubbing them in their hands, and eating them.

Some Pharisees said,

"Why are you doing what is unlawful on the sabbath?"

Jesus said to them in reply,

"Have you not read what David did

when he and those who were with him were hungry?

How he went into the house of God, took the bread of offering,

which only the priests could lawfully eat,

ate of it, and shared it with his companions?"

Then he said to them, "The Son of Man is lord of the sabbath."

Reflections:

Jesus safeguards those who belong to him, defending them steadfastly against any accusations and confrontations. In today's gospel, when the Pharisees questioned Jesus about his disciples’ actions on the Sabbath, he responded by drawing upon an incident from the Old Testament involving David (cf. 1 Sam 21:1-6). By citing this example, Jesus emphasized that sometimes circumstances may warrant exceptions to strict adherence to the law. In David's case, even though he technically broke the law by eating the consecrated bread, it was justified due to the pressing needs of hunger. Jesus, as the ultimate authority, interprets the true essence and purpose of the Sabbath, ensuring it serves its intended function in enriching our lives.

Activity

Focus on showing compassion and empathy, towards those who're in need than putting too much emphasis, on following rigid rules and regulations.