Today, I found out that traditionally on the Tuesday of Holy Week, we remember Jesus in the temple – teaching, challenging, confronting. It’s an interesting passage on the way to the cross. It shows a different side of Jesus. The tension is rising. The cross is coming. And yet, Jesus doesn’t back down.
Combining the account from the 4 gospels, we find Jesus speaks truth to power, tells uncomfortable parables, and exposes hypocrisy. The religious leaders are watching closely, trying to trap Him. But Jesus, firm in His relationship with God, turns their traps around, using clever words and parables to cut away their masks while presenting the same truth he has always proclaimed.
This passage always fascinated a member of my church. Every year, he would offer a fresh insight, helping us look again. One year, he pointed out something I’d never noticed: Jesus didn’t react in a fit of rage. He entered the temple, saw what was happening – the corruption, the injustice – and left. It was the next day that He returned and overturned the tables.
Even in righteous anger, Jesus was deliberate. His actions were considered, purposeful. And they were compassionate – He drove out the cattle, yes, but released the birds, sparing the vulnerable. He disrupted the systems that were exploiting the poor and the foreigner, especially in the very part of the temple – the Court of the Gentiles – meant to welcome those on the margins.
There are so many layers to this scene. It is rich with symbolism and challenge. It gives us permission to feel angry at situations, and it reminds us that God is for everyone.
As for me, when I see injustice, I find it hard to watch. But I also find it hard to confront. My voice trembles. My hands shake. My heart races. Speaking up comes at a personal emotional cost. But more and more, I realise I must imitate Christ, as hard and as uncomfortable as that might be.
Because there are people who don’t have a voice. Who don’t have the opportunity to speak up. And if I can, then I must. Not just out of duty, but as a privilege. To stand in solidarity. To protect the vulnerable. To clear space for worship, welcome, and justice – just like Jesus did in the temple.
So today, I’m asking myself where is Jesus encouraging me to speak up, even when it’s costly and uncomfortable?
May God give me the strength and the courage to imitate Jesus.
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