Jesus and the money changers, a stained glass window of St. Leonard’s Catholic Church in Madison, Nebraska. Public Domain.

This prayer was inspired by the story of Jesus cleansing the temple, as found in John 2:13-22. The story is also found in Matthew 21:12-17, Mark 11:15-18, and Luke 19:45-48. The prayer is written for a single voice with congregational response, but feel free to voice it in the way that best suits your worship setting. – Lisa

Come and Cleanse Your House Again
ONE:
Merciful Savior, you gather us together
for worship and prayer,
forgiveness and healing,
community with you and with others.

ALL:
Forgive us for losing sight of your agenda.
Forgive us for all the obstacles
we put in the way of people connecting with you.
Come and cleanse your house again.

ONE:
Drive out the mistrust, false teaching and prejudice.
Turn over the tables of gossip, hypocrisy and apathy.
Empty us of addiction to money, things, and power.

ALL:
Return us to truth, humility, charity and prayer.
Fill your house with welcome, growth, and redeeming love.
Bathe us in your grace
so everything we do draws people to you
and brings honor to your name.
Amen.

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Be sure to also check out Steve Garnaas Holmes’ incredible commentary on this passage entitled Right Sacrifice.

© 2012 Lisa Ann Moss Degrenia You are welcome to use this work in a worship setting with proper attribution. Please contact Lisa for information and permission to publish this work in any form.

For more information on the art and the use of this resource in other settings, please refer to the copyright information page.