Jesus Heals a Man's Withered Hand

Jesus went into a synagogue on the Sabbath. He was teaching there, and a man was present whose hand was withered. Luke notes that it was his right hand. Some religious leaders were watching closely so they could find a charge against Jesus if he healed on the Sabbath.

Jesus knew what they were thinking. He called the man to come forward and stand in the middle. Then Jesus asked whether the Sabbath was for doing good or doing harm, for saving life or for killing. They gave him no answer.

Matthew records another part of Jesus’ answer. He reminded them that if a sheep fell into a pit on the Sabbath, a person would lift it out. A human being is worth far more than a sheep. So it is right to do good on the Sabbath.

Jesus looked around at them all. Mark says he was angry and also grieved by their hard hearts. Then Jesus told the man to stretch out his hand. The man did, and his hand was restored, sound and whole like the other one.

The miracle did not soften everyone. Matthew says the Pharisees went out and made plans to destroy Jesus. Mark adds that they joined with the Herodians, and Luke says they were filled with rage and discussed what they might do next. How does this story show the difference between mercy and hardness of heart?