Matthew 12:1–14 presents a stark contrast between the rigid legalism of the Pharisees and true Sabbath-keeping. The Pharisees, zealous but legalistic, accuse Jesus’ disciples of breaking the Sabbath by plucking heads of grain and rubbing them in their hands.
Jesus, however, reframes the Sabbath. He is the Lord of the Sabbath, and His disciples are free to act in mercy and do the necessities, even on the Sabbath. This reframing is a far cry from the self-righteous legalism of the Pharisees, who have turned the Sabbath into a burden rather than a blessing.
Jesus, invites us to rest in Him, the ultimate Sabbath rest. It is not a question of what we can’t do on the Sabbath but of what we can! By trusting in Christ and abiding in Him, we can find peace and refreshment for our souls.
