The Zeal for His House

Daily Scripture Threshing for Today, Monday, May 19, 2025

Today's Text: John 2:13-17

Key Verse: John 2:17 (NIV): "His disciples remembered that it was written: ‘Zeal for your house will consume me.’"

In 2016, I visited Thailand and saw Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai. It was no doubt the city's most sacred and venerated buddhist temple. Beside it was a workshop of a dedicated craftsman who specializes in forging images of Buddha. Each time I pass by, I notice how he always meticulously care for his workshop ensuring every tool is in its place and the environment is conducive to their work. In a similar vein, we are called to have a fervent "zeal" for God's house, which encompasses not just the physical building but also the community of believers and the very presence of God in our lives. Our own zeal should be more than mere attendance; it's a passionate devotion that drives us to protect the sanctity and purpose of God's dwelling.

The meticulous zeal of that craftsman drew my attention to Jesus's zeal when He cleansed the temple. In which case, His actions was fueled by a deep reverence for His Father's house being defiled by unwholesome activities. This wasn't anger for its own sake, but a righteous indignation born out of a profound love and respect for the sacred space. Likewise, our zeal for God's house should manifest in a desire to see His name honored, His word upheld, and His people nurtured. It means actively working to maintain the integrity of our faith and fostering an environment where God's presence can be felt and experienced.

Apathy, indifference, and a casual approach to our faith can easily erode this vital zeal. Just as neglect can lead to disrepair in a physical building, a lack of spiritual fervor can diminish the vibrancy of our spiritual lives and the effectiveness of the church. To cultivate genuine zeal for God, we must be intentional and resolute. We must prioritize our relationship with God, and take pleasure in engaging actively in worship and fellowship, and speaking up against anything that dishonors God or hinders the growth of His kingdom. In this way, we, like Christ, will be demonstrating genuine zeal for the name and work of the Lord.

Action Steps: Reflect on your own level of zeal for God's house, both individually and corporately. Do you need a more passionate devotion? What step can you take this week to actively contribute to the sanctity and flourishing of your faith community? Pray for a renewed sense of zeal for God's presence in your life and in the midst of His people.

Quote for the Day: "A believer's zeal for God's house, name and work reflects the deep value he places on His presence and purpose in his life." (Simon Olatunji #quotablequote)

Let Us Pray: Dear Heavenly Father, ignite within me a fervent zeal for Your house, for Your presence, and for Your people. Help me to honor You in all I do and to actively contribute to the growth and integrity of Your kingdom. Strengthen my passion for Your word and empower me to speak and act in ways that reflect Your holiness — in Jesus's precious name. Amen.

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Thank you for being part of this journey. For additional reading on today's meditation, read: Psalm 69:9, Romans 12:11, and Revelation 3:19.

With all my love and prayers,

Rev Simon Wale Olatunji, Ph.D.

Your Darling Bishop (DaBishop)

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