Hezekiah was a decent and righteous king - unlike many before him. When he fell ill, the prophet told him to prepare for death, for he would not recover. It was the tears and prayers of Hezekiah that reached God, and he called to mind the king's righteousness and fidelity. God blessed him by adding fifteen years to his life. We are not guaranteed a similar outcome if we fall ill, but the life we lead is important. When we ask to be healed and recover, we can ask ourselves if our life is a blessing to others? Do we contribute to the common good and to the happiness of others? The quality of life rather than the length is important.

Some were upset that the disciples of Jesus were picking grain to eat on the Sabbath. This was definitely not allowed. But Jesus pointed out that human need was involved, and human needs are important. Rules are to help us, not become a prison or a burden. We need to be flexible, always keeping in mind that the well-being of people is number one. The rules are not God. Jesus quoted something from the prophet Amos: God wants mercy, not sacrifice. Mercy is what God is, and mercy is what pleases God when we show it to others.