Seeing The Value

Seeing the Value

Mark 3:1-4, NLT

Jesus went into the synagogue again and noticed a man with a deformed hand. 2Since it was the Sabbath, Jesus’ enemies watched him closely. If he healed the man’s hand, they planned to accuse him of working on the Sabbath. 3Jesus said to the man with the deformed hand, “Come and stand in front of everyone.” 4Then he turned to his critics and asked, “Does the law permit good deeds on the Sabbath, or is it a day for doing evil? Is this a day to save life or to destroy it?” But they wouldn’t answer him.

Setting the Scene

Mark points out that Jesus “noticed” the man with the deformity. The synagogue must have been filled, especially since this was the Sabbath and Jesus had been drawing crowds because of his healing and teaching. Add to that number the disciples and Pharisees. Yet Jesus saw this man. Perhaps the man was near Jesus and his entourage, or maybe he walked up to Jesus. Or he may have approached Jesus after Jesus looked at him. Whatever the case, Jesus noticed him.

The Pharisees did, too, but they did not see a man in need; they saw only an opportunity for possibly accusing Jesus of wrongdoing as a Sabbath-breaker. They were more concerned about protecting their laws than freeing a person from suffering.

Jesus knew the value of this man (Matthew 10:31; 12:12). He was not an object or discussion topic but one of God’s special creations—and Jesus acted accordingly.

Getting Personal

In what ways can you identify with this man in the synagogue?

When have you felt lost in a crowd, alone, and carrying a heavy burden?

When have you felt especially valued by God?

Nothing escapes Jesus’ notice. Regardless of the circumstances or surroundings, he sees us. Whether our needs are obvious, as in the case of the man and his deformed hand, or hidden, Jesus knows about them. And he sees us with compassion.

He sees you. Imagine him looking at you, smiling, and gesturing for you to come to him. How do you feel? What happens next?

You are important to Jesus.

Talking to God

Bring all your burdens and cares to God because he cares for you (1 Peter 5:7).