“And he told those who sold the pigeons, ‘Take these things away; do not make my Father’s house a house of trade.’”
Jesus gave a corrective warning to those seeking to profit from the religious activities at the temple. These were people specifically targeting worshippers. In other words, their purpose was to make money off of those who came to worship.
This story always reminds me of the souvenir vendors at the Shepherds’ Field in Bethlehem. Each morning, they start the day at the gate. As tourists enter, the vendors follow them, arms extended, displaying trinkets for sale. With each group, the vendors manage to go a little further into the property. Eventually, a nun will run them out of the gate and off the property. Then, the slow creep begins all over. Throughout the day, this routine is repeated several times.
As a business owner, this verse hits close to home. I have to guard my heart so that I don’t join a church for the financial opportunities that could come. Furthermore, I have to guard my heart so that I am not mentally angling for business while I am at church. I don’t believe this means I cannot provide my services to church members, but I need to guard my heart so that is not my motivation for being there.
I believe this warning also applies to pastors who must guard their hearts so that they are not mentally angling to make money beyond their salary from their congregants. To help avoid this potential heart conflict, some churches require their pastoral staff to sign a non-compete contract. In this age of the “side hustle,” this seems like a good idea.
Father, please help me have a pure heart focused on you when I gather with your people. Amen.
Speak Your Mind