Following Jesus · Part 22 of 40 · 2 min
Jesus Cares for the House of Prayer
Jesus returned to the temple in Jerusalem. This was meant to be a place where people could come close to God in prayer.
But buying and selling had filled it with noise. Money changers and sellers were taking up space that should have welcomed worshipers.
Coins clinked in the busy temple courts.
Jesus would not let the house of prayer become a place for dishonest gain. He sent the sellers away and overturned their tables.
He reminded the people what God's house was for: prayer.
Then people who were blind or unable to walk came to him. Jesus healed them there.
Children praised him in the temple. Some leaders were displeased, but Jesus received the children's praise.
He was making room for people who needed hope, including children who might otherwise be ignored.
We can care for places of worship by being thoughtful, honest, and welcoming. We can also make room for someone who needs help.
Jesus did not measure a person's worth by money or importance. His house was a place to seek God, and his care reached those who came to him.
Retelling of Matthew 21:12–17.
Supporting reading: The Desire of Ages, chapter 65. Open the book
Talk about it together
- Honesty
- Inclusion
A verse to remember
“the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth;”
John 4:23 · excerptNKJV
- What did Jesus remind people God’s house was meant for?
- How do you think the children felt when Jesus welcomed their praise?
- How can we make a shared place respectful and welcoming?
Activity · 2–5 minutes
Prepare a Peaceful Place
Choose a corner for listening to a story or saying a short prayer. Tidy a few objects and make room for everyone. Discuss how to care for the space and welcome someone who needs to take part differently.
Try it today: We can care for shared spaces and help others feel welcome there.
More stories with these values
Jigsaw puzzle
Open the interactive activity or prepare a printable sheet for home, classroom, or family.
Open activity →