Matthew 12  Jesus and His disciples were walking through a field of grain when the disciples picked off some of the grain and ate it.  What a stir that caused!  The Pharisees jumped right on it and complained to Jesus.  But, Jesus wasn't upset about it at all.  He gave them two examples.. 

David and his army were hungry and ate some of the consecrated bread from the tabernacle one day.. and they were not condemned even though this would have been a great trespass against the Law.  Also, every Sabbath day the priests in the temple worked.. they worked really hard offering the sacrifices for that day.. they were not condemned either. 

Jesus said, "But I say to you that something greater than the temple is here."  The One who is the "Lord of the Sabbath" gave them a greater mission than defending their idea of Sabbath law.. "I desire compassion, and not a sacrifice.. " not condemnation.. not prideful legalism... not harsh judgements. 

As they went into the synagogue the Pharisees had another test for Jesus.. would he heal on the Sabbath?  There was a man with a withered hand.  A hand that kept him from working.. from providing for his family as he desired.  All Jesus did was say, "Stretch out your hand!"  And when the man did so it was instantly  restored to normal.  Jesus didn't even touch him. He just showed compassion. He showed that He valued that man more than anything else.. especially more than the approval of the Pharisees. 

Jesus had no problem with healing all those who followed Him that day. He was fulfilling the words of Isaiah. "Behold My servant whom I have chosen, My Beloved in whom My soul is well-pleased.. "  All He did was according to the Father's will.. pleasing the Father and revealing the Father's love for all people.

Father in heaven, how thankful we are for You.. the Almighty God who cares more for people than for any religious sacrifice.  You gave Your Beloved Son to show us the greatest example of compassion and love that the world could ever know.  He is greater than any temple, greater than any prophet or any king.  He is Lord of all and the Lord who is my Lord and King.  Hold me closer to Your heart Lord that I might learn to live a life of compassion and kindness every day.  Be exalted and glorified in Your people who live for You in this way.. in compassion and love.. for the sake of Your holy Name.  Amen.