SAINTS MARCELLINUS AND PETER, MARTYRS (OPTIONAL MEMORIAL)

My house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples. 

Have you ever heard of the “Court of the Gentiles”? It was the outermost court in the Temple in Jerusalem during Jesus’ time. That’s the place where Gentiles who wanted to follow Israel’s God gathered to pray and to be taught by the priests.

But the Court of the Gentiles was also where the chief priests allowed money changers and merchants to set up shop so that people could buy the lambs and birds and goats they needed for their sacrifices. So you can imagine the noise and traffic that filled this court—and how hard it must have been for any prayer to take place there.

It’s no wonder that Jesus drove all the merchants away! This sacred space had turned into a bustling marketplace. Jesus made it clear that he wanted “all peoples,” including Gentiles, to be free to seek the Lord (Mark 11:17).

All peoples. That includes you. Jesus wants you to be able to come into his presence unhindered. It’s why he offered himself on the cross: to destroy the sin that separated you from himself. It’s why he offers the Sacrament of Reconciliation: so that you can be set free from any sin that might be blocking your experience of his love. And it’s why he promises that you can “have access in one Spirit to the Father” whenever you turn to him in prayer (Ephesians 2:18).

For all peoples. No matter what your situation is, Jesus welcomes you. Just as he cleared the way for the Gentiles to come to him, so he clears the way for you. His arms are open wide to embrace you. His pierced heart longs to heal you. And his Spirit is ready to pour love into you. Just as he wanted the Temple to be a house of prayer, so he wants the temple of your heart to be a place where you can meet him.

Jesus’ love is for everyone. Don’t think you’re too sinful or unworthy or not holy enough. The Lord treasures you just as much as he treasures the greatest saint. He loves to speak to you.

So come to him—right now. Let his love fill you to overflowing.

“Jesus, I am amazed that you welcome me, a sinner, into your presence. Here I am, Lord, ready to hear your word and know your love.”

Sirach 44:1, 9-13
Psalm 149:1-6, 9
Mark 11:11-26