Anger II - Devotional

Mark 11:12-19

When Jesus cleansed the temple court, he did so because

he was angry that people could be so close to God, and yet so distant from a relationship with him. There was no sin in Jesus' action that morning, only compassion. This was a final effort to set things straight; to get people to see, perhaps for the first time, that God was real, loving, and ever waiting. The passion of the Compassionate came out. For just a moment the buying and selling stopped, the hustle and bustle quieted, and the Son had a message for the crowd.

The message to you and I is the same: Stop what you are

doing, slow down, draw near to God.

Is there anything in your life that needs to be overturned

in order for your relationship with God to be restored? If so, don't wait for the Lord to stop you in your tracks. Take hold of your life. Regain control. Worship the Father and return him to his rightful place.

I have often read the story of Jesus clearing the temple, and each time I do, I ask myself which side of the tables I would have been on that day. But perhaps a better question would be,

"Which side of the tables am I on right now?" What side are you on?

I don't ever want to be caught "doing church" but missing

God. There are so many wonderful things to become involved with; great causes, worthy ministries, but if they draw us even a step away from the Father, they are stealing his glory and we simply can't afford to allow that to happen.

Father,

Grant me the vision to see where you are at work around me. Give me a heart of compassion like that of your Son Jesus. Help me to see the hurt of those who are blinded to your love. Lord bless me with the ability to turn people's eyes toward you. In Jesus' name, Amen!