A Tree, A Temple, and a Table (Mark 11:12-21)

What’s the one thing that made Jesus mad? Like, really mad. As Jesus enters Jerusalem, he sees their magnificent temple and passed through its fortified walls. The place is bustling, but Jesus sees through it all, claiming the temple had become a den, a home, an assumed place of comfort, for those who were not living their lives in a way that reflected God’s glory.  Tragically, the church, instead of following Jesus, often does the exact same thing. It puts forward an image of holiness and hospitality, but upon closer inspection, it is hostile toward those who do not fit in. But Jesus welcomed anyone and everyone who came to him. He welcomed us in when we were strangers. As his people, we’re called to follow him and do likewise. We’re called to welcome all.