Dedication of the Lateran Basilica – Feast
Gospel – John 2:13-22
“Take all this out of here and stop turning my Father’s house into a market.” Jesus is asking to take all the things out which makes our heart into market. just as Jesus drove out the merchants and money changers, we are invited to identify and remove anything that clutters or corrupts the purity of our hearts. These could be distractions, unhealthy attachments, or misplaced priorities that keep us from focusing on God. Our hearts, meant to be temples for God, can become cluttered and chaotic, filled with distractions, misplaced desires, and anxieties—much like a busy marketplace. Just as the merchants and money changers turned the temple into a place of transaction, we often allow external influences to turn our inner lives into spaces of unrest, preoccupation, and spiritual neglect. These attachments and habits can subtly consume our energy and focus, keeping us from experiencing true peace and connection with God. This passage challenges us to take a closer look at the “market” within us—those areas where our priorities may be misaligned, where material concerns or worries overshadow our higher purpose. By consciously examining and clearing away these distractions, we create room for God’s presence to dwell in our hearts more fully. In essence, Jesus’ actions remind us of the need for regular spiritual renewal. Embracing practices like silence, prayer, and simplicity can help us realign our hearts, turning them back into places of prayer, peace, and purpose. Let’s reflect: What am I allowing into my heart that doesn’t belong?
Don Giorgio