“The Son of Man is lord of the Sabbath” (v5). Not all Jewish people lived close enough to visit Jerusalem’s Temple, but all Jewish people could observe Sabbath. By declaring himself Lord of the Sabbath, Jesus touched the heart of Judaism, demonstrating God’s true character and teaching what God really wanted. Religious leaders were furious at this, because they used Sabbath rules to boost their own authority (v2,7). Jesus deliberately healed people on the Sabbath to demonstrate God’s love. He sees our brokenness with compassion, and His desire is to bless and save, not harm (v9). 

“Stretch out your hand” (v10). Human-centered religion keeps people distant from the true God. Jesus invites us to real relationship where we are known, forgiven, and healed.