Today is known as “Holy Monday.” On the day prior (Palm Sunday), Jesus had come into Jerusalem. On Sunday evening, Jesus went back out of the city of Jerusalem to the little village of Bethany where he stayed the night (Matt. 21:17; Mark 11:11), most likely with his friends, Lazarus, Mary, and Martha (although scripture does not confirm with whom he stayed). On Monday morning, Jesus left the little village of Bethany and as he made his way to Jerusalem (Matt. 21:18), he noticed the fig tree that had produced its leaves ahead of season.  Jesus cursed the tree because it bore leaves but had no fruit (Matt. 21:19). Jesus then taught his disciples that if we have faith we can move mountains (Matt 21:20-22). Jesus then went into the temple, where he cleansed the temple (Mark 11:15-17). In direct fulfillment of the prophecy delineated in Jeremiah 7:11, Jesus pronounced a symbolic yet solemn judgement upon the using of God’s temple as a den for robbers. Later in the day, Jesus left the city of Jerusalem and went back out of the city most likely again to the little village of Bethany (Mark 11:19), once more likely staying the night with his friends, Lazarus, Mary, and Martha (again, scripture does not indicate with whom Jesus stayed).

Blessing to you as you consider the events of Passion Week and enter into the suffering, crucifixion, and glorious resurrection of Jesus!

Author: Curvin Gordon