CCC 2173

The Gospel reports many incidents when Jesus was accused of violating the sabbath law. But Jesus never fails to respect the holiness of this day.⁹⁸ Cf. Mk 1:21; Jn 9:16. He gives this law its authentic and authoritative interpretation: "The sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath."⁹⁹ Mk 2:27. With compassion, Christ declares the sabbath for doing good rather than harm, for saving life rather than killing.¹⁰⁰ Cf. Mk 3:4[ETML:C/]. The sabbath is the day of the Lord of mercies and a day to honor God.¹⁰¹ Cf. Mt 12:5; Jn 7:23. "The Son of Man is lord even of the sabbath."¹⁰² Mk 2:28.