Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem begins with a flourish. Crowds greet him with hosannas and palm branches in his path. The week continues with quality time in conversation with his disciples, teaching, and prayer. But things take a turn toward confrontation when Jesus runs the money changers out of the Temple. Those in charge take note and begin to ask the question, “Who is this man, and who is he to be saying and doing these things?” They want to know their adversary before neutralizing him by whatever means necessary.
At first reading, Jesus appears to be a man bent on tearing down the institution of the Temple and the worship therein. But, in fact, he was reminding his people of the real, original reasons for worship, which was not dependent on a place, but is based instead on a relationship with God no matter where we find ourselves. His call was not to abandon the Temple or to denigrate it, but to remind people that God had no need of a Temple or its trappings to have a relationship with humanity. Jesus found a people with an inward focus and pointed them outside themselves. They refused to look outward and lost the Temple they held so dear.
Our church is learning to look outward and the blessings mount up almost daily. New friendships and connections are fighting hunger and bringing learning to those who need it most. People with emergency needs are finding help through the generosity of our members. An outward focus can change the world.
Gracious God, we thank you for the place and people you have gathered to worship you. Grant us the wisdom and courage to continue to see where you would send us from this place. Amen.
Love this Nathan!
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