“For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.” (Matt. 12:8)
GROWING UP, my family had some rules that governed what we were allowed to do on Sunday. Of course, going to church was the most important activity. Naps were good. We boys were not interested in naps, but Mom would get one in while she was “reading” the Sunday school take-home papers. We would usually let her sleep while we slipped outside to play baseball. We were allowed to play catch or hit the ball to each other, but were not supposed to get into any organized ballgame. We respected the rules because they were not excessive, but others were not so appreciative of Sunday’s regulations.
In the minds of many in those days, anything fun was not allowed on the Lord’s Day. Often, the rules governing Sunday behavior majored on things that could not be done, which caused those who wanted something positive to do to rebel against the rules. Too often believers have swung between legalism and license. God-designed laws and principles for holy living are necessary. But when commitment to rules becomes more important than living for Jesus, the pendulum has swung too far.
Jesus is more important than our structures and rituals. Finding a balance that will allow us to be physically and spiritually renewed while letting Him be Lord of the day is most important.
Make a Sunday plan for worship, rest, and the renewal of self and relationships.
Ken Heer was a pastor, community director, and author (A Good Start [WPH] and Ancient Fire [WPH]). He passed away prior to this publication.
© 2018 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
