Matt 21:12-22
Have you ever noticed that in this account of the gospel, Jesus upsets and turns over the money changers tables and then immediately after he heals the lame and blind? The children see it all and take up a chant, “Hosanna in the highest, blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.” Of course the religious leaders, still upset at the money being spilt all over the ground (even the possibility of losing money makes these guys upset) get cranky for the children speaking out the truth. Of course Jesus points this out to them, which makes them even more upset. It reminds me of a YouTube video of Gabor Mate, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AaAJQR_9Dg8&feature=share where he points out that society sees no value in those who cannot contribute economically, but see value in those who work and make money. Thus, the old, the children, and anyone having a debilitating condition are seen of no value or a burden to society. Our world has become consumed with materialism. Like the religious leaders who seem to believe that you can only worship and serve God, if you have the right money, our society gives great value to the rich. So, we are consumed with the material world. Sad, however, that it is not the created material world that people are consumed with. It is not creation, which we can touch, smell, hear and taste, all around us. We are consumed with money, or having money, which isn’t real only a symbol of power and prestige. It is ironic that the children, and the lame and blind can see what is real, Jesus Christ, but the religious can only see the money. I am just realizing that my workaholism, which the world has always applauded, is just like the religious leaders. I missed what was going on because I was so busy working. I need to remember that those who we think are of little value have a perspective that we need, or we may miss what the creator of all things is doing in our midst. I may miss the relationships that are all around me for some “paper” or some coins spilt on the ground.
