Jesus and the Sisterhood of Faith- “Remember Mercy” (Billy Russell, 05/26/19)

Jesus and the Sisterhood of Faith- “Remember Mercy” (Luke 13:10-17)

 

Happy Memorial Day Weekend! This is the fifth and final unique story recorded in Luke’s gospel of Jesus blessing a woman. In a Sabbath day service, Jesus heals an unnamed woman crippled by an evil spirit for 18 years. Jesus sets her free! Jesus helps us remember that Mercy is greater! Helping people be set free by Jesus is a ministry priority. We all need His mercy! Chose mercy over judgement when it’s in your power to do so.

 

                                  Observing Jesus in the Story

 

Jesus participates in worship (v.10). (He’s mindful of His merciful Father.)

 

Jesus practices mercy (vv.11-13). (He acts to free a woman.)                  

 

Jesus advocates for mercy (vv.15-16). (He speaks for the weak.)

 

                                4 Reactions in this Healing Story

 

1.) Indignation (v.14)- the synagogue ruler was indignant. He mistakenly

     valued people less than the rules he enforced for keeping the Sabbath.

     He advocates scheduling another day for healing, but not the Sabbath.

     He has forgotten mercy!

 

2.) Justice (vv.15-16)- Jesus confronts the merciless ruler as a hypocrite!

     Jesus grants the woman mercy, but the ruler gets justice!

     Jesus argues folks treat their animals good on the Sabbath, so why not

     this daughter of Abraham? Especially, since Satan bound her for 18yrs!

     Today is a day to be set free by Jesus! A day for mercy, not judgement.

 

3.) Humiliation (v.17)- the ruler/others were rightly humiliated.

     They experienced shame for dishonoring this woman.

     The Truth both confronts and sets free! (convicts/releases)

 

 

4.) Delight (v.17)- the people rejoiced! The woman praises God (v.13)!

      They were delighted with who Jesus is and what He does!

      Does the goodness of Jesus to others delight you?

      Remember: mercy triumphs over judgement!