Reflecting on John 2:13-22
Protect this House
We see Jesus in the Temple and he becomes disgusted with the money-changers and other merchants who have pervaded the inner sanctum of the Temple. He says, “This is my Father’s house and it has been turned into an out-of-control marketplace.” Jesus turns over the tables of the money-changers and attempts to push the merchants out of the inner temple. This place is not intended to be used for commerce, but for the worship and pleasing of God.
Jesus, in essence is protecting his father’s house in such a manner that the disciples remember the words “Zeal for your house will consume me.” Still those in the Temple challenge the authority of Jesus to “kick them out of the temple.” Jesus replies for them to tear down the temple and He will raise it up in three days. Again the people were astonished because it took 46 years to build the Temple. Jesus was however, referring to his death and resurrection. The disciples heard this, remembered what Jesus had said, and knew that the Scripture would be fulfilled.
So therefore, as we enter this season of Lent, let us affirm that in the Resurrection of Christ, he died so that God’s House was always protected. Let us “protect this house” and prepare ourselves for the Good News of the risen Christ.
Written by: Phil Beck, Living Grace Lutheran Church
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