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.’” Mark 11:17 NIV
The Inspiration:
The events of the verse above were around the week of Easter, when Christ died. He had just cursed a fig tree that had the appearance of health and abundance, but the tree had nothing to show for it. This is the word of caution as we approach this Easter season: there is an expectation from God for all who are linked to Him. I cannot be called by the name of the Lord, and there will not be any physical proof of that connection. There are so many people and situations seeking the imprint and impact of Jesus, and that is the assignment I have from God, as His earthly representative and ambassador. As I take stock today, can I say, of a truth, that my life is a true reflection of the presence of God? Am I bearing fruit that lines up with my confession of Jesus as my Lord and Saviour? Jesus came into the temple: the place where God had directed His people to come in and worship Him.
The Contention:
For all who remembered the first temple, it was not a place that men could approach carelessly; even the High Priest had to dress in a particular way, and offer service in particular way, otherwise he would be struck dead by God. That was the standard laid down by God when the first tabernacle was being built by God. Unfortunately, with the passage of time, and a lot of rebellion against God, the standards had been whittled down, and the priestly role had even become political. The essence of worship had been long abandoned, and men now came into the temple to do business, and to make money. Of course, if the leadership understood the essence of the temple, they would not allow the practice to stand, but when the leader is distracted, there will be a loss of focus. Is there any assignment I have been given in the house of God? How am I carrying it out?
The Conclusion:
The house of God is the place to meet with God, the owner of the church. It is not a place to show off the latest fashion trends, or to just catch up on current affairs, but it is first about fellowship with God and other people of like minds. Jesus called it a house of prayer, where men can come in, speak to God and get answers to long-standing problems. Even the verse quoted by Jesus wad taken from Isaiah, so you know that it has always been God's desire that men approach Him with a desire to speak with Him, and to hear Him speak back to them. It cannot be a place that promotes disregard for the things that God holds dear. As I enjoy this Easter season, I must be conscious of the One who invites me to approach Him, and I must do so with awe and reverence. God is a consuming fire, but He is also an amazing Father of love. Don't take it for granted. God's time of favour is here.
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