In Psalm 46, we read about a river that gladdens the city of God. The river here, denotes God’s presence. In the midst of turmoil and the changes that surround me if I choose to be still and truly know who He is, this river brings me peace. God becomes my refuge, my help in trouble. God will be exalted!

Prophet Ezekiel similarly describes a ‘river’. Wherever it flows, there is abundant life and fruitfulness. This is no ordinary river, it is the mighty presence of God. It never runs dry because it flows from God’s sanctuary. In fact the more we behold Him, the larger and deeper it grows.

We are blessed to know this God and to know that as we run to Him in our circumstances, His presence and blessings grow deeper in our hearts.

St. Paul shares a revelation which was not experienced under the old covenant. “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” God is not just ‘with’ us but also ‘in’ us.

By the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus, we have been given an opportunity to become God’s temple. From the temple within us flows the presence of God, and through us into the world.

We need to protect this temple. Perhaps by being conscious of what we allow into our bodies, and minds. Also how we treat others as they too are God’s holy temple. God will not let His temple be defiled. Today’s Gospel proclamation gives an account of the Lord Jesus’ response towards the Jews as he sees His Father’s house being defiled.

We do not need to worry ourselves more than we ought to on earthly matters, because “His divine power has given us everything needed for life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness.” (2 Peter1:3). We are never alone, because the triune God lives within us and He calls us His own.

Prayer: Abba Father, may I be mindful of your presence in my life and in the lives of others. Amen.

Source: On our Knees publication (November Edition)