Today, with the Passion closing in, we’re contemplating Jesus who is energetically expelling the merchants who were occupying the Temple’s “court of the Gentiles”. Jesus Christ attacked the legislation in force, prepared by the aristocracy of the Temple, but did not violate the Law and the Prophets. Against a deeply corrupted practice that became “law” (it was allowed to trade in a place reserved for the Gentiles to pray); Jesus claimed the true divine right of Israel.

Jesus Christ would stir what was contrary to the common worship of God, clearing the worship area for all. In fact, the Temple’s police would not intervene and the authorities were simply asking for a signal that would legitimize to do so. “Destroy this temple and I will raise it up in three days” was his answer: his “signal” is the cross and resurrection.

—The cross and resurrection procure as the One who sets up the true worship. Jesus justifies himself through the passion: this is Jonah’s sign, which He offers to Israel and the world.