Turn It Upside Down

Read

Matthew 21:10-13 “When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, ‘Who is this?’ The crowds answered, ‘This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.’ Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves.”

Think

In the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—a pivotal moment unfolds, often titled "Cleansing the Temple," where Jesus disrupts the bustling commerce within this sacred space. It's not just a historical event; it's a transformative encounter challenging our understanding of purpose.

Picture this: Jesus enters Jerusalem to a chorus of praise, riding on a donkey as prophecies unfold. In the celebration, he's not blinded by the cheers. Instead, he confronts the misuse of the Temple, turning it into a marketplace. Tables overturned, chairs scattered, feathers in the air—chaos turned into a stage for a profound lesson.

But here's the twist: during the mess, Jesus extends healing to the marginalized, the blind and lame, forbidden by the Law of Moses to approach for worship. It's a revolutionary act—breaking down barriers, making space for those the world had pushed aside. In doing so, Jesus emphasizes the need for our connection with God, inviting others to experience his transformative power.

As we think about this cleansing episode, it calls us to inspect our own hearts and priorities. Are there areas where materialism or busyness with lifestyle have overshadowed our relationship with God? The Temple cleansing serves as a wake-up call, urging us to clear the clutter and make room for worship. In examining our lives, we not only align with Jesus' message but also pave the way for others to encounter the life-changing truth he brings. The cleansing of the Temple, then, becomes not just a historical event but a contemporary challenge—a call to sincerity, to focus, and a transformative encounter with Jesus.

Apply

What is taking your attention from Jesus? Are you too busy to find time for church? Do you make time for the one who died on the cross for your sins? Have you shared with someone lately about your transformation? It may be time to clean it up. Time to turn it upside down.

Pray

Heavenly Father, I acknowledge the areas in my life where distractions and other pursuits have clouded my relationship with you. Help me to clear away the clutter so that I can hear your voice, and help me prioritize a relationship with you above all else. In Jesus’ name. Amen.