Easter Devotion: Holy Monday

By Eric Burton

Associate Pastor of Students and Discipleship

Read Mark 11:15-19.

This passage follows Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The religious fervor was at a fever pitch as Jesus fulfilled messianic prophecy by riding into Jerusalem on a donkey (Zechariah 9:9). Just before our text, Jesus curses a fig tree. From a distance, it appeared to be producing fruit, but upon closer inspection, it had none. This sets up His judgment on the temple. From afar, the temple seemed vibrant, but a closer look revealed a lack of godly fruit.

In verses 15-16, Jesus drives merchants and money changers out of the temple courts. The temple courts were divided into sections: one for Jewish men, one for Jewish women, and one for Gentiles. Likely, the court of the Gentiles became a marketplace. Pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem needed to buy animals for sacrifice. Bringing their own sacrifice from across the empire was difficult. They also needed to exchange money into temple currency. The problem was not providing these services to worshipers. The problem was putting them in the Gentiles’ court. Whether for convenience or from a sense of superiority, this broke God’s heart. The one place intended for Gentiles to draw near to God through prayer became a chaotic market unfit for worship.

Next, Mark records Jesus quoting from Isaiah 56 and Jeremiah 7. Isaiah 56 emphasizes God’s intention for the temple: a place where all nations are welcomed to worship. Jeremiah 7:11 points to Israel’s misplaced confidence in their temple as a guarantee of safety. God declared judgment for their rebellion. Going through the motions of worship would not protect them.

As we walk through this Easter season, may we avoid two traps in this passage. First, don’t let busyness prevent true worship of Jesus. Second, don’t see these events as ordinary. This is no ordinary story. The King of Kings came to make reconciliation with God possible for every tribe, nation, and tongue. Just as He turned over the temple tables, our King challenges our empty religion to get our attention. God will never be content with worship that is routine but heartless.

During Holy Week, whether it is your first time or your fortieth, reflect on Jesus’ last week and His awe-inspiring rescue mission. Easter is more than an excuse for a new outfit, “going to church,” or a family meal. Take the opportunity today to invite Jesus to cleanse your heart as He cleansed the temple, and prepare to celebrate His triumph over the grave with your whole heart.