Walking In Peace

Click here to read the Gospel for the third Sunday of lent

All four Gospels report the cleansing of the temple but John’s version which we read this week happens early in Jesus’ public ministry.

So what is it about the temple and Passover that gets so many travelers for a visit? Devout Jews of the time would travel to Jerusalem three times a year, for Passover, Pentecost and the feast of booths or tabernacles. These are the three major feasts of the Israelites celebrating various events in their salvation history. We remember in Luke’s Gospel that Jesus stayed on after the Passover at age 13 and met with the temple officials in Jerusalem. This had been an annual trip for Mary, Joseph and Jesus but Jesus stuck around to do his Father’s work.

Once Jesus drove the sellers and money changers from the courtyard, he was quizzed by the leaders of the temple to explain himself and they were none too pleased with his answer. His answer had not happened yet, that of his resurrection. They did not know what he was saying because he said he would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days. His disciples missed it too until after the resurrection. 

What pilgrimages do you have planned?