Editor's note: Enjoy today's devotion from On Calvary's Hill by Max Lucado.
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And He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you have made it a ‘ den of thieves.’” — Matthew 21:13
It was Passover week. The Passover was the highlight of the Jewish calendar. People came from all regions and many countries to be present for the celebration. Upon arriving, they were obligated to meet two requirements.
First, an animal sacrifice, usually a dove. The dove had to be perfect, without blemish. If you brought a sacrifice from your own source, it would be considered insufficient by the authorities in the temple. So under the guise of keeping the sacrifice pure, the sellers sold doves — at their price.
Second, the people had to pay a yearly temple tax. During Passover, the tax had to be rendered in local currency. Knowing many foreigners would be in Jerusalem to pay the tax, money changers conveniently set up tables and offered to exchange the foreign money for local — for a modest fee, of course.
It’s not difficult to see what angered Jesus. Pilgrims journeyed days to see God, to witness the holy, to worship His majesty. But before they were taken into the presence of God, they were taken to the cleaners.
Want to anger God? Get in the way of people who want to see Him. Exploit people in the name of God.
In Christ stormed. Doves flapped and tables flew. People scampered and traders scattered.
This was not an impulsive show or temper tantrum. It was a deliberate act with an intentional message. God will never hold guiltless those who exploit the privilege of worship.
Christ’s passion on Monday is indignation. There are hucksters in God’s house. Remember why Jesus purged the temple. Those closest to it may be the farthest from it.
~And the Angels Were Silent
Heavenly Father, work in my life in such a way that people will see You shining forth. Help me to break free from the selfishness and sin that prevent me from being conformed to your image and expressing Your holiness. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Excerpted with permission from On Calvary's Hill by Max Lucado, copyright Max Lucado.
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Your Turn
Jesus didn’t sit idly by when believers were being taken advantage of within the church system. He took worship at the temple and access to God’s presence seriously and so should we. Where there’s injustice, mistreatment of the poor, or exploitation, act in line with Jesus! And, know that this is how highly He values you, too. ~ Devotionals Daily