Friday prior to Proper 4- Series B

 

Mark 2:23-28—When the Pharisees accuse Jesus’ disciples of violating the Sabbath, Jesus uses the opportunity to claim divine authority and assert His messianic status. Sadly, there are people today who still level criticisms like the Pharisees of old, criticizing Jesus’ followers because they really wish to criticize the authority and status of the Lore. But neither Jesus nor His Church can be dismisses. Through these disciples, Jesus would spread the good news of peace, rest and comfort. 

This section of Scripture is one of the key texts in all of the gospels to help us understand Jesus’ relation to His tradition, particularly to the law. Jesus’ operating principle is that the Sabbath and, the law and the rituals of holiness was created for humanity, and not the other way around. Says Jesus, the Sabbath was made for humanity. They offer ways that humanity can respond to God’s grace with gratitude.

Prayer for industry and commerce: Lord Jesus Christ, as once You shared in our human toil and thus hallowed the work of our hands, bless and prosper those who maintain the industries and service sectors of this land. Give them a right regard for their labors, and grant them the just reward for their work that they may find joy in serving You and in supplying our needs; for You live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Prayers from Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House.