John 7:23

Jesus zeroes in on the target.  He says, “How is it that you believe it is acceptable for a child to be circumcised on the Sabbath simply to protect the integrity of a command of Moses, but you get all bent out of shape because I choose to restore a man completely to health on the Sabbath?” John 7:23 EFP 

Jesus has been bringing his listeners to the point of no return. He has pulled no punches in describing the rationale and the authority behind his Sabbath deed. He has given a previously disabled man a new lease on life. But the Sabbath Sanctity Squad cannot see any good in it—only the violation of the Law.  This cannot be overlooked.

Now Jesus points out the untenable position they have taken. To do this he draws attention to one of the most significant of all Jewish customs—circumcision.  This practice was given by God to Abraham to be a sign between God and His chosen people, the Hebrews (Genesis 17). Circumcision had taken such a central place in the religious practices of Judaism, that there was even a Sabbath exemption for parents seeking to circumcise their child on the eight day, when this fell on Sabbath.  Jesus does not condemn this exemption, he merely points out how healing a person on Sabbath ought to be a valid reason for making an exception as well.

It is sobering to consider moments in my life when I have lost sight of the most important trying to defend a personal position related to faith or practice.  Life is most precious to God. I am learning to follow in those footsteps. People are most important. Rules do not rule—the Ruler does.  The Ruler values people. I need to do likewise.