On reaching Jerusalem, Jesus entered the temple area and began driving out those who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves, and would not allow anyone to carry merchandise through the temple courts. And as he taught them, he said, “Is it not written: ” ‘ My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations’ ? But you have made it a den of robbers.’ “
The chief priests and the teachers of the law heard this and began looking for a way to kill him, for they feared him, because the whole crowd was amazed at his teaching.
When evening came, they went out of the city.
Mark 11:15-19
The temple was a place of worship and the court of the Gentiles was the only area where the non-Jews could gather for prayer and to worship. The Jewish authorities had allowed this area to become a market place with all the noise and the smells. Can you imagine trying to worship in these conditions?
The religious leaders were already unhappy with the influence Jesus was gaining over the people with his teaching and his miracles. This confrontation made them angry. He was threatening their way of life.
Jesus does not allow for “business as usual.”
Jesus calls for change.
The world tells you that you must look out for your own interests.
Jesus tells you to put others first.
The world tells you to get all you can.
Jesus tells you to give all you can.
The world tells you to get your enemy before he can get you.
Jesus tells you to love your enemy and do good to them that curse you.
As your journey through this Holy Week consider your faith walk, ask the Lord to show you what needs cleaning up.
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