How do I Use the Holy Temple area or premises in my Life?

Gospel Thoughts

Advent Season : 3rd Week - Monday

GOSPEL Mt Mt 21:23-27

First Reading - Nm 24:2-7, 15-17a

*How do I Use the Holy Temple area or premises in my Life?*

*1) Jesus used the Temple premises for Teaching and preaching*

The Gospel is clear in stating that Jesus was teaching when chief priests and elders of the people approached Him. 

We always find Jesus in the temple area either, praying, or proclaiming the Word of God, or teaching the people or healing them 

So this was the main things performed by Jesus in the Temple. 

*2) Temple and temple premises can be used only for Holy things*

From the life of Jesus it is very clear that holy places can be used only for the holy purposes. 

In fact we also see that Jesus is getting angry for using the temple premises for the business. So He chased all of them and said, this House is a House of prayer and you have turned into the den of robbers 

It is written," he said to them, "'My house will be called a house of prayer,' but you are making it 'a den of.' Mt  21:13

So it is clear that the purpose of the temple is only to use for holy things, like prayer, meditation, teaching and preaching. 

*3) Chief priests and Elders of the people had different purpose*

They used the temple premises first of all to trap Jesus and to find fault with Him. 

Their purpose was not motivated for good things, but something bad and negative. 

It is so sad that these people who were responsible for doing God's work and serving the people, using the temple premises for something and unholy things 

Using temple premises for trapping some one, for gossip,  for spoiling the good reputation of some one, for making groups and dividing the people are really abominable things. 

*4) God does not answer the things which are done with wrong intention*

*Neither shall I tell you*  this is the final answer of Jesus for those who were trying to trap Him and trying to spoil His name. 

So the response of God is very clear for the things which are done with wrong intentions and the things which are done with the intention of putting other person into difficulties. 

*5) How do I use the temple premises in my Life?*

What is the primary motive of my life when I enter the temple premises. It may have different purposes 

For some people it is the place of worship, holiness and for spiritual nourishment 

For others it becomes a place of self exhibition of their talents and capacities

For still other it is a place of recognition. 

For others it becomes a place of getting position and power 

Still for others to achieve their selfish motives, to exercise their hidden agendas and so on

There are also others who use this place to take revenge on thier opponent

For others it becomes a place of service and doing the work of God. 

*Where do I stand amidst these options? Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*