Overturning Tables

Mark 11:15 – On reaching Jerusalem, Jesus entered the temple area and began driving out those who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. (NIV)

There's an old hymn called "Gentle Jesus, Meek and Mild", which a lot of people have bought into theologically. It depicts Christ as being a peaceful, loving guy Who wouldn't dream of disturbing anyone's life or meddling with their lifestyle choices. It's a child's dream of Jesus, but the trouble is this: a lot of adults still carry around that depiction of Christ in their hearts and heads.

Jesus was a radical preacher. He didn't mangle the truth or mess about with God's Word. When He said something, He meant it, and when He sprang into action to confront the religious authorities, He was seriously challenging their comfortable ways. In fact, when He overturned the money tables in the temple, He was making a direct challenge against both the Jewish and Roman authorities. This incident, more than any other, is what would lead to His execution within four days.

A lot of us think that Jesus is a joyful guy, Who is just waiting to embrace us on the other side of life. This cozy theology causes us to take Christ for granted and leaves us free to do our own thing. The question that we all need to ask ourselves today is this: what things in my life have I exchanged for faith in Jesus? What lifestyle choices have I made that Jesus would radically overturn in order to save me from the coziness of sin?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, this is a tough topic because it reminds us of our sinful ways and selfish choices. It makes us feel guilty about the bad decisions we have made and the unholy things that we still cling to, which separate us from God. Overcome our stubborn souls and overturn our lives, so that we may truly love, serve, and worship You. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.

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