Another time Jesus went into the synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there. Some of them were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal him on the Sabbath.
Mark 3:1-2 NIV
The Jewish religious leaders were generally opposed to Jesus’ message and ministry. They were jealous of his growing popularity and refusal to submit to their traditions. They challenged him at every opportunity, looking for a reason to accuse him of some wrong, and hoping to discredit him before the people. And this passage is a reflection of that. As Jesus went into a synagogue on the Sabbath, he was watched closely to see if he would heal this man with a shriveled hand. If he did, they would be able to accuse him of working on the Sabbath in violation of the Ten Commandments.
Jesus did heal the man. And he also challenged their interpretation of what was legal to do on the Sabbath. But rather than take his message to heart, his opponents began to look for a way to kill him.
There is a segment of our population today that is not much different than these religious leaders. They look for reasons to accuse and discredit the followers of Jesus and his church. Sometimes this opposition comes from within the organized church and other times from the world. If you are following after Jesus, then you should expect opposition. But do not let it stop you. Be faithful to your calling to serve our Lord. Even when others accuse you of doing wrong.
