John 2:13-25

In the Bible, the Temple does not only serve as a religious building but it is a sacred place that
represents God's presence. That is why, in today's Gospel reading, our Lord Jesus was furious
that people had turned the temple into a place of business and commercial transactions. He was
furious that the people's loyalty had been turned into trade and business. The temple, as a sacred
place, should have been transformed into a place where people could more deeply and visibly
feel God's presence. This should be how we regard our churches too. We should help one another
to open more fully to God's presence, word, and grace because our Churches are committed to
being a place for prayer and worship. But, most importantly, we must recognize that we are each
Jesus' personal temple, tabernacle, and holy space where he can be with us. As a result, just as
our Lord cleansed the Temple, he invites us to cleanse and purify our bodies to become true
temples. We must transform our negative characteristics and attributes into positive ones, as well
as expel all animalistic impulses that demean and debase our humanity. We must always
remember that Christ will become present to others through us. May God continue to bless and
protect all of us Amen!