15 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, 16 and would not allow anyone to carry merchandise through the temple courts. 17 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.’” 18 The chief priests and the teachers of the law heard this and began looking for a way to kill him, for they feared him, because the whole crowd was amazed at his teaching. (Mark 11: 15 – 18, New International Version)
Theme: The Wisdom of Discipline
Context:
During Passion Week we are using objects in Scripture to preserve our memory of some of the key lessons about love that Jesus taught His disciples during Passion Week. Yesterday we focused on tears. Today, we focus on overturned tables. The passage above from the Gospel of Mark captures the story of Jesus in the temple courts the day after his triumphant entry into Jerusalem.
Reflection:
On the surface, the tears we focused on yesterday and the overturned tables we will focus on today represent contrasting emotions. Scratch the surface though, and it is evident that both events are acts of love. They way Jesus treated the people engaged in commerce in the temple courts is certainly dramatic. The overturned tables were exclamation marks punctuating the love Jesus had for His father. Because of this love He could not tolerate the abuse of the house of prayer. The overturned tables were also a declaration of love for those who were being denied the opportunity for true worship because of the negative influence of money (a problem that is still prevalent today). This is a potent reminder from Jesus that love isn’t just a feeling. It encompasses emotions and actions consistent with a deep commitment. The overturned tables are a reminder that we are expected to love as Jesus did.
Response:
By overturning the tables, Jesus teaches us that love sometimes demands emphatic action. Of course, not all circumstances require “overturned tables.” We need the guidance of the Holy Spirit to act with love. How do we guard against complacency/passivity when love demands action? I would love to hear your thoughts.
April 15, 2025 at 6:03 am
If we find ourselves not fighting for anything, we should take note. If we find ourselves fighting for everything, we should take note. Spiritual discernment is key and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide you into the battle He has for you to take on.
We should give close friends the freedom to point out areas of complacency in our lives. Sadly we can become immune to the things we should be turning over tables for.
April 15, 2025 at 7:15 am
Taking out a phone to record what’s going on, or looking the other way instead of helping, seems to be the norm these days.
There’s a show with a man called John Quiñones in which a scenario is acted out to see whether or not people will keep quiet or help when they witness someone being mistreated. In many of the situations it would be much easier for the observers to “mind their own business“ and do nothing, but someone usually takes action and helps/interferes.
We need to be careful not to be the ones who “mind our own business”. When we feel the tug of the Holy Spirit telling us to intervene, no matter how uncomfortable we may feel, we need to leave complacency behind and act in love.
April 15, 2025 at 4:29 pm
I think our conscience will help us determine whether we need to be passive or to act in love. I feel the Holy Spirit is with us believers every day of our lives. Sometimes the action may seem tough but necessary for growth and a learning experience. Like giving boundaries in a parent child relationship instead of just allowing the child to do whatever pleases him. Disciplining and not spoiling the child is an act of love. Being passive when you need to act will make you irresponsible, choosing only the easy way out. In everything especially carrying out a task or in making decision, praying and asking God to give you discernment is important. Jesus ‘s act of “overturned tables” was a must for him to do or else people will not learn and will continue to disrespect the place of worship. Jesus’ death on the cross is a sacrificial act of love.