THE STORY OF JESUS: Matthew 21:12-17
“My house will be called a house of prayer.” (Matthew 21:13)
Why do people go to a church gathering?
Some go to fulfill religious duties, or out of tradition, or to add a little ‘God’ to their lives.
But some go to actually seek God, to meet a deep need in their soul.
Some find what they are looking for, but others leave disappointed.
Maybe the problem is in them, but sometimes the problem is in the church.
Some churches put up walls that hinder people from actually connecting to God.
This is what angered Jesus, what the religious leaders were doing in the temple.
When the church leader is the focus, or the flashy worship, or the fancy building.
When they’re always asking for money, or they sing songs or speak words that are archaic.
When they only talk to each other, while ignoring visitors, or center guests out uncomfortably.
Jesus reminds us that God’s family gatherings are for God-seekers.
For people needing hope or help, for people seeking meaning of forgiveness.
What are the ‘tables and benches’ that stand in the way in our churches?
Am I an open door, or an obstacle, to others finding God and Jesus in my church?
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, You want us to be an open door to seekers, to remove whatever walls keep them from truly meeting You in prayer. May I remove my own barriers willingly, before You have to do it for me.
The temple courts.
His dwelling among men.
But . . .
Jesus did a cleansing of the temple where the the religious leaders were exploiting the worshippers. There they were dishonouring God and their neghbours.
The cleansing of the temple shows what Jesus wants from us. He desires to make us temples of His Holy Spirit. And I need to thirst for that.
Jesus Christ needs to be the Ruler of my heart and mind and life and home. My life must reflect that each and every day as I live for Him.
Spirit of God, descend upon my heart;
Wean it from earth; through all its pulses move;
Stoop to my weakness, mighty as Thou art;
And make me love Thee as I ought to love.
I ask no dream, no prophet ecstasies,
No sudden rending of the veil of clay,
No angel visitant, no opening skies;
But take the dimness of my soul away.
Teach me to feel that Thou art always nigh;
Teach me the struggles of the soul to bear.
To check the rising doubt, the rebel sigh,
Teach me the patience of unanswered prayer.
Hast Thou not bid me love Thee, God and King?
All, all Thine own, soul, heart and strength and mind.
I see Thy cross; there teach my heart to cling:
O let me seek Thee, and O let me find!
Teach me to love Thee as Thine angels love,
One holy passion filling all my frame;
The kindling of the heaven descended Dove,
My heart an altar, and Thy love the flame.