1 Maccabees 4:36-37, 52-59; Psalm – 1 Chronicles 29:10-12; Luke 19:45-48
The first reading presents us with the victory of Judas Maccabeus and his followers over the pagan king and how they organized for the cleansing and re-dedication of the Temple for sacred use and worship. Similarly, in the Gospel reading, Jesus drove out all those who were defiling the Temple. He said to them; “My house shall be a house of prayer; but you have made it a den of robbers.” The house of God is a sacred place for worship; it is not a business centre neither is a multipurpose hall. Let us learn to revere the house of God; let us guard against all kinds of abuses, profanations and desecrations.
LET US PRAY
Almighty Father, forgive us for the sins of pride, rebellion, disobedience, selfishness, hatred, and idolatry in your house. Lord Jesus, forgive us for half-hearted worship. Holy Spirit, teach us to worship with reverence and bow in awe. Amen.
