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Week 2 - Day 1

Relationship v. Religion | Read

In Israel, they were really strict about not doing any work on Saturdays. They dedicated their Saturday (Sabbath) to church services and rest. The problem was that they thought their strict Sabbath rules were what God cared most about. So when Jesus started healing people on the Sabbath, they accused Him of being a rebel with no respect for God and His sacred day.

But Jesus doesn’t mind challenging their understanding of God’s expectations. He is happy to defy their religious rules and teach people what God actually cares most about. Jesus keeps reminding them about just how loving and kind God is - how God accepts anyone who comes with the right heart attitude. He’s explaining that our Heavenly Father is more interested in a relationship rather than religious rules. Understandably, that made the religious leaders furious.

Read more... Mark 3:1-19

Questions | Reflect & Respond

What is it that Jesus cares most about?

How much do I care about the things Jesus cares about?

God isn’t impressed by people following a set of religious rules - so what kind of relationship is He offering me?

Choosing Relationship Over Religion | Pray

Jesus offers a free relationship with God. We don’t earn it by being good enough or by following a set of religious rules. Jesus intervenes in people’s lives, gives them a taste of God’s goodness, and then invites them to build a friendship with God.

Today, why don’t you talk to God like you would talk to a friend. Tell Him about the things you would share with a best friend. Sometimes praying is just like spending time with a best friend. God enjoys hearing what is on your heart - He is a good Father with a soft spot for you and your life.