Daily Readings - Fri Nov 19 2021
Luke
45Then he entered the temple area and began driving out those who were selling.46"It is written," he said to them, "'My house will be a house of prayer'; but you have made it 'a den of robbers.'"47Every day he was teaching at the temple. But the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the leaders among the people were trying to kill him.48Yet they could not find any way to do it, because all the people hung on his words.
Sermon
In today's readings, we are reminded of the significance of sacred spaces and the importance of purity within them. The first reading from 1 Maccabees recounts the rededication of the Temple after its desecration, highlighting the people's joy and commitment to their faith. The Gospel from Luke shows Jesus cleansing the Temple, emphasizing its role as a house of prayer, not commerce. Both narratives underscore the need to maintain the sanctity of sacred spaces, whether physical or spiritual.
The context of these readings reveals their historical and spiritual depth. The Maccabean Revolt was a fight against oppression, culminating in the Temple's restoration, which became a symbol of resilience and faith. Similarly, Jesus' action in the Temple during His final week in Jerusalem was a bold statement against corruption, foreshadowing His crucifixion. These events call us to reflect on our own sacred spaces—our hearts, minds, and places of worship.
In our daily lives, we are challenged to ensure our 'temples' remain pure. This involves regular prayer, reflection, and aligning our actions with God's will. Just as the Temple was restored, we must continually work on our spiritual restoration, creating a sacred space within where God's presence can dwell. The moral lesson is clear: integrity and purity in our spiritual lives are essential, guiding us to honor God in all we do.