How do I use the sacred temple area?

Gospel Thoughts*

*Ordinary Season : 8th Week -  Saturday*

*GOSPEL -  Mk 11:27-33*

*First Reading - Sir 51:12 cd-20*

*How do I use the sacred temple area*

*1) How did Jesus use the temple area*

First of all Jesus used this sacred temple area for prayer. Whenever He came to the temple He prayed for some time

Secondly Jesus used this temple area for proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God

Thirdly Jesus used the temple area to preach and teach the people about the values of the Kingdom of God

Fourthly Jesus also used this sacred area to recognise the great works of the unrecognised people. Example the poor widows mite

Jesus also used this place to heal people from their sickness, to correct people and to show them the right path

*2) The use of Temple area by Scribes, Pharisees and the Jewish Leaders*

First of all for them temple area had become a place of business and trading. Lots of business activities were going on in that place 

Secondly they used this sacred place to question Jesus and to find fault with Him. Today's Gospel is the best example for it. 

Thirdly they used this place to control and subjugate people in the name of God and religion 

They also used this place in many occasions to trap Jesus, to organise a plot against Jesus 

Holy place was used for unholy things by those people who were in authority

*3) The use of the temple area by simple pious people*

For them temple was a holy place, place of Gods presence and place of prayer 

They came to this place with great reverence, and with devotion to pray and to have God experience

They used this holy place to offer their mite and also their little offering 

In a way they used this place for God's mercy, to change their life and also for thier spiritual nourishment

*4) How do I use the temple area in my life?*

Many of us use this sacred area of the temple for praying, to have God experience, to grow in our spiritual life and to practice our faith life 

Many of us have great reverence to this place, since it helps us in our spiritual journey and makes our life meaningful.

But there are many who use this sacred place for various other purposes. The examples could be the following 

-Some use for personal glory 

-Some use for personal gain and for business 

-Some use this place for taking revenge on some one else

- Some use this place for achieving their selfish motives 

-Some use this place to exhibit their talents, skills, their power, wealth,  name and fame 

-Some use this place to get recognition, to get sympathies 

*5) Use of Temple area and my life?*

What is the significance of temple area in my life?

How do I make use of this place and for what? 

What is my attitude towards the temple area? 

What can I do to make use of this place for my spiritual growth and to lead a good life??

*Think about it*

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

*Fr Maxim Dsouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*