1. You did not recognize God's coming (41-44)

Turning his attention to the city, Jesus wept over it. The Pharisees' rejection of Jesus as King was representative of the whole city. He had come to bring peace! But they did not recognize him. As a result, the entire city would be destroyed. This happened in 70 A.D. when Rome destroyed Jerusalem, leaving no stone unturned. Failing to see and welcome Jesus as King has grave consequences not only personally, but also societally. Jesus' heart is filled with tears for the suffering of the unbelieving world.

2. 'My house will be a house of prayer' (45-48).

But Jesus was not powerless. He took action. Coming to the temple, he cleared out all the money changers-evidence of the priests' greed-and restored the temple as a place to study God's word. Every day, he came to the temple and taught the people while the religious leaders plotted his death. We follow Jesus' example when we engage in prayer for the lost world and teach his words to all people.


Application: Father, Jesus' tears were also for me and my people. Open our eyes to recognize Jesus our King. Help us pray for our world and study Jesus' words daily.
One Word: Jesus brings peace