Scripture: John 5:12 (ESV) – “They asked him, ‘Who is the man who said to you, “Take up your bed and walk”?’”
Instead of marveling at the miracle before them—a man healed after 38 years of suffering—the religious leaders focus on who broke their interpretation of Sabbath law. Their question reveals their priorities: rather than rejoicing in God’s mercy, they are intent on finding who dared to disrupt their rules.
Martin Luther often warned against this kind of spiritual blindness. In his writings, he described how religion, when untethered from grace, becomes a system of cold legalism, where rules are exalted above compassion. These leaders, like many in Luther’s day, were more concerned with maintaining control and enforcing traditions than recognizing the work of God among them.
Notice too the nature of their question: “Who told you to do this?” Not “Who healed you?” Their concern is not with the miracle, the mercy, or the restoration—but with the perceived violation of Sabbath tradition. They miss the wonder and focus only on the offense.
This verse is a sobering reminder to us. It’s possible to be so committed to religious structure that we miss the presence and power of Christ. When we prioritize our expectations over God’s work, we risk opposing the very things we claim to serve.
Reflection Questions:
- Why do you think the leaders ignored the miracle and focused on the supposed Sabbath violation?
- Are there ways in your own life where rules or expectations might be blinding you to God’s mercy at work?
- How can you learn to respond with wonder and gratitude rather than suspicion when God moves in unexpected ways?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, protect us from becoming hardened or blind to Your mercy by our own traditions or expectations. Help us to rejoice in Your work, even when it disrupts our assumptions. Give us eyes to see Your grace at work and hearts ready to worship You for it. Teach us to be people of compassion rather than cold judgment. In Your name, Amen.
This devotional is based on John 5:12 with insights drawn from themes in Martin Luther’s writings.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 