Today is Monday in Holy Week. Each day this week, we will spend some time hearing and wondering about Jesus’ very last days before his death. We will watch what he did, and listen to what he said as we walk with him toward the cross.

Good Friday is coming, but Easter morning remains our hope. Join me, as we watch, and wait, and hope in God during Holy Week.

Scripture passage: Mark 11:12-19

I wonder what Jesus’ face looked like, when he saw the empty fig tree? I wonder what his voice sounded like when he brought everything in the temple to a stop?

I wonder what it felt like to watch Jesus turning over the tables, and scattering all of the animals and money around the temple? Was it frightening? Surprising? Exciting? Something else?

I wonder why Jesus was so upset with the money-changers, the animal-sellers, and the people who were in charge at the temple?

I wonder if it’s true that Jesus wants me to be able to come close to God, just as badly as he wanted to help the people in the temple?

I wonder if I can imagine a place where all people -- no matter where they are from, or what they look like, or how much money they have, or how they dress or eat -- can live out God’s ways and come close to God together? How does it feel, to picture a place that is a house of prayer for all people?

Our good God, you promise that as the mountains surround your holy city, so you surround your people. Keep us close in your love, and help us draw others to know you, worship you, and find themselves at home in your love.

In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.