The Israelites looked for places where they could meet God and offer sacrifice so they built temples. Though God did not expect a place to dwell in, the people felt the need for a place of worship as community.

Gradually, the place of worship turned into a veritable market place and worship remained mere rituals during Jesus' time. Apparent holiness became a status symbol to be flaunted about. In the beatitudes Jesus warned against such an attitude. He vehemently tried to protect the holiness of the Temple by cleansing it.

Through his resurrection and the sending of the Holy Spirit Jesus has sanctified and made us temples of God. We are called to holiness. Our growth in holiness depends on how deep the foundation has been laid in Jesus and how intimately we are united with him. As the first reading teaches, like the stream that gives life to fruit-bearing trees and becomes the source of medicine, our life too becomes a source of life and healing to others when God dwells in us. We are called to respect our body and recognize the presence of God in others.