March 08, 2015
3rd Sunday of Lent B Cycle of Readings
Jesus is angry even aggressive. Does it shock or surprise you? Jewish pilgrims, need to exchange foreign currency for coins that can be used in the temple to purchase an animal for sacrifice. A fee is added to the exchange rate like banks today. Perhaps Jesus reacts the way he does (making a whip, turning over tables, spilling coins and driving out sellers and animals) because the fees imposed fall heavily on the poor wishing to make an offering. Jesus too can be upset with all the commotion and lack of reverence. It is not easy for a devote believer to walk through St. Peter’s Basilica when thousands of tourists move through with smart phones and cameras. But more likely the anger of Jesus expresses itself in a prophetic action. Isaiah, Jeremiah and Hosea speak out that God does not desire burnt offerings (animal sacrifices) but God desires an end to exploitation and oppression of the poor; God desires care and compassion for widows, orphans and aliens – reminding the Jewish community that they were once strangers themselves. The Ten Commandments balance respect for God with proper human behavior: honor your parents, do not kill, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not lie or defame, and do not covet your neighbor’s spouse or goods. During his last Passover dinner when lambs are being sacrificed in the temple, Jesus gets up from the table, takes off his outer garment and washes the feet of his disciples – a task given to slaves or servants. Jesus sets an example for us. True religion includes fidelity to God and integrity, justice and compassion for our neighbor. Only when these two dimensions are present will our offering be acceptable to God.
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2nd Sunday of Lent
