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ACTS: A Way to Live

Tuesday, March 29

ACTS: A Way to Live

The Gospel of Luke—Lent 2022


Read Luke 13:10-17


Focus Verse—Luke 13:15

The Lord answered him, “You hypocrites! Doesn’t each of you untie his ox or donkey from the stall and lead it out to give it water? Then should not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has kept bound for eighteen long years, be set free on the Sabbath day from what bound her?


ACTion for Reflection: What is Sabbath?

The Pharisees and rulers of the synagogues had distorted the rules of “Sabbath rest.” One of them was that healing was prohibited. Throughout his ministry, Jesus explains what Sabbath really is. It’s resting and renewing in God’s love and then giving his love to others. Keep in mind that Jesus claimed authority over the interpretation and observation of the Sabbath. And rightfully so, he the One who established it in the first place.


The Life Application Bible states, “The Pharisees hid behind their own set of laws to avoid love’s obligations. We too can use the letter of the law to rationalize away our obligation to care for others (for example, by tithing regularly and then refusing to help a needy neighbor.) But people’s needs are more important than rules and regulations. Take time to help others, even if doing so might compromise your public image.” We are also reminded in Mark 2:27 that “The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.”


God gave the day of rest because people need time to relax, regroup, change their routine, worship and serve God without the pressure of other responsibilities. How do you honor the Sabbath day?


ACTion to Live Out: Acknowledge the Sabbath and do good

An idea for today is to acknowledge and honor someone in full-time ministry. Recognize someone who spends endless hours, even on the Sabbath, serving others. Consider praying for them; reaching out to them by email, text, or call; or perhaps you send them a meal or make a donation to their ministry in their honor. Also consider taking the time to intentionally do something good for someone else on the upcoming Sabbath.


Dear Lord Jesus,

Thank you for teaching us how to live! After we daily reflect on your life-giving words, help us to then, through your Spirit, get up and ACT. Give us hearts of compassion, hands of generosity, and feet that take your good news to the world. What an honor it is to be your image bearer. Amen.




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