Don't Cross the Line

And He found in the temple those who sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the money changers doing business. When He had made a whip of cords, He drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen, and poured out the changers’ money and overturned the tables. And He said to those who sold doves, “Take these things away! Do not make My Father’s house a house of merchandise!” Then His disciples remembered that it was written, (Psalm 69:9) “Zeal for Your house has eaten Me up.” (John 2:14-17)

Just a short while before, Jesus had just celebrated with friends and family at a wedding feast. He had visited with family in Capernaum. These were no doubt times of joy, laughter, celebration, and family memories. Jesus loved people. He offered friendship, grace, understanding, forgiveness . . . yet He knew where to "draw the line"! The activity in His Father's House was over the line . . .

As Christ-followers today,  we are exposed to many activities. We must be discerned enough to know what is worship and what is worldly. While we are free to do all things, not all things are beneficial to our relationship with Christ nor our witness to the world. The choices we make reflect our "zeal" for our Lord. Our love and passion for our Savior should move us to "draw the line" at some point!

Lord, help me to know when and where to draw that line between what pleases you and what does not.