As we conclude chapter 22, we find Jesus getting confronted by an expert of the law, demanding an answer to the greatest law in the entire Torah. Jesus' response both clarifies and confuses the religious leads, and then he asks them a question. In all this back and forth, we're confronted with a similar question: how have we been so immersed in our paradigms that we fail to see the bigger picture?

As we enter into our new building, it's a good opportunity to reflect on the Goodness of the Lord, and commit ourselves to seeking Him wholeheartedly.

Jesus came to give us joy, but why is it so difficult? How can we live into the joy God has for us?

We live our vision of the future, and as followers of Jesus we say yes to Hope. In a world of chaos and despair, we are given a vision of our future with God that casts out all fear.

Our lives are aimed at something, and sometimes we can hit the bullseye only to realize later that we are aimed at the wrong target! When the Pharisees and Sadducees approach Jesus to test him, Jesus shows them how their lives are aimed at the wrong target, because they know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God. Do we?

The King has prepared the wedding feast - how will you respond?

Jesus confronts the Chief Priests and elders of the people with more parables. What do they mean? What can they teach us today?

In one passage, Jesus curses a fig tree, makes bold claims about prayer, and silences those challenging his authority. What does this do to our hearts?

The temple itself is not bad; what the leader of Israel did with it was bad. Generation after generation, God was calling Israel into His presence, reminding them of who they were! Yet, generation after generation, Israel traded in God's plans and purposes for a cheap substitute.

Who are we, as the new temple of the living God? What might God be calling us into as a people?

As we near the end of Jesus' earthly ministry, we are confronted with a question: Who Is This? The best communication always has multiple layers of meaning, and communicates with a story. Todays text in Matthew 20-21 is no different. We see Jesus presented as the Son of David, Zion's Gentle King, and the Blessed Coming One. Along with the city of Jerusalem, we are asking ourselves, Who Is This?