Holy Monday: Matthew 21:12-27
On this Monday of Holy Week we remember Jesus’ cleansing of the temple, his cursing of the fruitless fig tree, and the questioning of Jesus’ authority by the religious leaders of Israel. As you meditate on these three events and on the words of God spoken through prophets, pause to consider what Jesus might want to say to you through each.
Before you begin, take a few moments to still and quiet yourself in the presence of Jesus. Rather than try to empty your mind, take notice of the indications in and around you that Jesus is present with you.
When you feel somewhat centered, read Matthew 21:12-17
The people of God were meant to be a blessing to all the families of the earth. This was God’s promise and charge to Abraham. But here in the outer court of the temple, the place of prayer for non-Jews and those with physical disabilities, the noise of questionable commerce makes it impossible to seek the presence of God. In this sacred space the “families of the earth,” those on the fringes of Israelite society, are exploited and obstructed rather than blessed.
Jesus sets thing right both in the temple and in the bodies of the “blind and lame.”
Take some time to contemplate God’s words from the prophecy of Zechariah written over 500 years before Jesus’ birth:
“This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies says: Judge fairly, and show mercy and kindness to one another. Do not oppress widows, orphans, foreigners, and the poor. And do not scheme against each other.” – Zechariah 7:9-10
When you are ready to move on, read Matthew 21:18-22.
The fig tree, like the nation of Israel, has the appearance of a being functioning entity, but on closer examination neither produces what God intended.
Stop to meditate on God’s words through the prophet Micah:
“…O people, the Lord has told you what is good,
and this is what he requires of you:
to do what is right, to love mercy,
and to walk humbly with your God.” – Micah 6:8
When you are ready to move on, read Matthew 21:23-27, and then consider the words of God spoken through Jeremiah:
“In those days and at that time
I will raise up a righteous descendant from King David’s line.
He will do what is just and right throughout the land.” – Jeremiah 33:15
Return to silence and listen to Jesus for a while.
What might Jesus be saying to you today through these events and prophecies?
What will you do in response?
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