IIT UBF - University Bible Fellowship at IIT

Daily Bread

Key Verse: 12:8

First, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice' (1-14). The Pharisees accused Jesus' disciples of doing what was unlawful when they were eating grain on the Sabbath. Their concept of the Sabbath was not right. Jesus challenged their Bible study, pointing out David and the priest as those who did what was seemingly unlawful, yet were innocent. They didn't understand the merciful heart of God in giving the Sabbath. Jesus healed a man with a shriveled hand to teach that doing good is lawful on the Sabbath. Jesus gives a very positive understanding of the Sabbath as God's mercy on sinners. Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath.

Second, Jesus is God's chosen servant (15-21). Although the Pharisees and others rejected Jesus and he had to withdraw, Jesus continued to minister to needy people, healing all the sick who came to him. Matthew quoted Isaiah to show Jesus is God's chosen servant. He came to express God's mercy to bruised reeds and smoldering wicks by bringing justice. In his name all nations will put their hope. Jesus' mercy is the hope of all sinners.

Prayer: Father, thank you for your mercy in giving the Sabbath. Help me find hope in Jesus the Lord.

One Word: Jesus is Lord