Table Flip

Read:

Mark 11:15-17 “On reaching Jerusalem, Jesus entered the temple courts 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.”’”

Think:

Distractions. Have you ever been distracted by something that was once good but now has taken over and diverted your attention from what really matters? Jesus entered the temple and saw what was once used to sell animals for offerings (a good thing) had become a full-on flea market with arguing, haggling, price-gouging, and dishonest business deals. After an Instagram-worthy tossing of tables and chairs, Jesus quoted Isaiah 56:7 in rebuke, “My temple will be called a house of prayer, but you have turned it into a den of thieves.”

Perhaps it's time to refocus ourselves and do some spring cleaning of the heart. Like the temple was a place of worship, let's make our bodies, our temples, a sanctuary for God. Let's worship Him personally and publicly. We need to stand guard at the gates of our hearts and minds to avoid distractions.

Apply:

Instead of busyness today, choose focus. Your main purpose is to glorify Jesus. What do you need to prioritize or declutter to make Jesus the center of your life?

Pray:

Father, thank you for dying for me, a sinner. Help me to honor you with my thoughts, body and actions. Show me where I am not putting you first. In Jesus’ name, Amen.