Scripture: Matthew 21:12-17
After the Triumphal Entry, Jesus entered the temple courts in Jerusalem. What He found there grieved Him deeply. The outer courts, meant for prayer and worship, had been turned into a marketplace. Moneychangers were exchanging currency, merchants were selling animals for sacrifices, and the sacred space had become a den of thieves.
In righteous anger, Jesus overturned the tables of the moneychangers and drove out those who were buying and selling. He declared, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you are making it a den of robbers.”
By cleansing the temple, Jesus demonstrated His zeal for the purity and holiness of God’s house. He was not only concerned with outward appearances but with the inward condition of the hearts of the people. He desired genuine worship and reverence, not superficial rituals and greed.
Following the cleansing of the temple, the blind and the lame came to Jesus in the temple, and He healed them. The children also praised Him, shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David!”
Through this powerful display, Jesus revealed His authority as the Son of God and the fulfillment of prophecy. He showed compassion to the marginalized and affirmed the importance of true worship from sincere hearts.
As we reflect on Jesus’ actions in the temple, let us examine our own hearts and lives. Are there areas where we have allowed greed, selfishness, or distraction to hinder our worship? Let us invite Jesus to cleanse our hearts and renew our devotion to Him, so that our lives may truly be temples of His presence.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, we thank You for Your zeal for righteousness and purity. Forgive us for the times when we have allowed distractions and selfishness to hinder our worship. Cleanse our hearts, Lord, and help us to worship You in spirit and in truth. May our lives be reflections of Your holiness and grace. In Your name, amen.
