Luke 19:45-48
Jesus was driving out those selling goods in the temple when He said, “…It is written, AND MY HOUSE
SHALL BE A HOUSE OF PRAYER,’ but you have made it a ROBBERS’ DEN.’” (45-56) God’s house
had become a safe place for thieves instead of a place to meet with God. Jesus is still cleaning house,
that is, His church. Jesus’ desire is not our destruction, but our restoration to His purposes and
processes in His house, the church. When people visit our churches, do they encounter God’s
presence, or are they just entertained or provided a good program? As He taught, religious leaders
tried to destroy Him, but were unable. Why? “…for all the people were hanging on to every word He
said.” (49b) Let God’s word emerge in our trials so our house is clean and we are restored to a place
where people who connect with us, are getting connected to God.