November 23, 2018 Friday of the 33rd Week in Ordinary Time-B

Revelation 10:8-11

Psalm 119

Luke 19:45-48

Jesus entered the temple area and proceeded to drive out those who were selling things… Lk. 19:45

Lord, you saw the money changers taking advantage of the poor and that angered you.  I’ll bet anyone today cheating the poor would get your same reaction.  People came to the temple to offer sacrifice and to pray but others came to make money and extort those who could least afford it.  All this in a time when the powerful were trying to arrest you and put you to death.  You replaced the temple as the presence of God among the people.  You replaced the dishonest business dealings with your teaching.  Your word gave the people hope that their Father in heaven loved them so much he sent his only Son to be their redeemer.  You taught the people enslaved by the Romans that they were free to love, serve and joyfully be a sign of hope to everyone.  Lord, in the temple of my heart drive out any darkness, deceit, or selfishness.  Cleanse me from anything that separates me from you.  I thank you for giving yourself for me on the cross and for showing me the path to life in your resurrection.  Amen.