Day 9 of Lent: March 13, 2025

Ashes to Alleluia Devotional: John 2:13-22

“Jesus answered them, ‘Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.’ The Jews then said, ‘This temple has been under construction for forty-six years, and will you raise it up in three days?’ But he was speaking of the temple of his body.” (John 2:19-21)

This is a fascinating passage, and it is even more fascinating were we find the stories location in the Book of John. You see John’s Gospel places the cleansing of the temple at the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, unlike the Synoptic Gospels, which place it near the end. This signals its theological weight: Jesus is revealing something profound about worship, authority, and his own identity.

Recall John is trying to do something quite different than Matthew, Mark, and Luke. His Gospel differs in both purpose and emphasis. While the Synoptics focus on Jesus’ teachings, miracles, and the unfolding of the Kingdom of God, John’s Gospel is more theological, emphasizing Jesus’ divine identity and mission.

Now the Jerusalem temple was the heart of Jewish worship, symbolizing God’s dwelling among the people. However, Jesus’ actions—driving out the moneychangers and overturning tables—indicate that the temple had become a place of exploitation rather than sacred devotion. His dramatic act is both prophetic and symbolic, foreshadowing a greater transformation: the transition from temple-based worship to worship centered on Christ who is the world’s savior.

When Jesus declares, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up,” his listeners misunderstand. They assume he is speaking about the physical temple, a structure that had been under renovation for decades. But Jesus is speaking of his own body, foretelling his death and resurrection. His statement highlights a shift: true worship is no longer confined to a building but found in the person of Christ, the resurrected Lord.

During Lent, this passage invites us to reflect on what needs cleansing in our own lives. Are there habits, attitudes, or attachments that hinder our worship and devotion? As we journey from the ashes of repentance to the alleluia of resurrection, Jesus calls us to let go of what is broken and embrace new life in him.

As we journey from ashes to alleluia, may we listen more deeply, trust more fully, and prepare our hearts for the risen Christ.

Reflection Questions

1. Where in your life do you need Jesus’ cleansing work?

2.  What “temples” in your life need to be surrendered so that resurrection can happen?

Closing Prayer

Holy God,

Cleanse our hearts as Jesus cleansed the temple. Remove anything that hinders us from fully embracing Your presence. When we misunderstand, grant us patience, wisdom, and trust in Your purpose.

As we journey from ashes to alleluia, renew us in Christ, who is our true temple and our hope. Amen.