Scripture:
Sirach 44:1, 9-13
Mark 11:11-26
Reflection:
Sometimes a reflection is simply a reflection. It is not an attempt to make another person accept my point of view or a “soap box” opportunity to preach about my favorite theme. Today’s story from Mark’s gospel regarding Jesus and the temple is an opportunity to simply reflect.
“They came to Jerusalem, and on entering the temple area he began to drive out those selling and buying there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who were selling doves. He did not permit anyone to carry anything through the temple area.”
In today’s gospel, Jesus looks angry.
One of the desert fathers, Abba (father) Poeman says, “If your brother plucks out your right eye and cuts off your right hand, and you get angry with him, you are angry without cause. But if he separates you from God, then be angry with him.”
Jesus did not want people to be separated from God’s presence in the temple or anywhere else. Deliberate separation from God was the worst form of injustice. Separation from others and our world also is unjust. We are one.
Jesus got angry when He saw this injustice. Today’s reflection is simple. Am I angry enough to “turn over the tables” when I see divisiveness in the sacred temple of our world?
Terry McDevitt, Ph.D. is a member of the Passionist Family in Louisville, Kentucky.