God's House

‘Crazy love’ for God’s house

Psalm 69:1-12

David loves God so much that it feels like anyone insulting God is insulting him. It’s painful to hear people blaspheming God: ‘The insults of those that insult you fall on me’ (v.9b).

David writes, ‘… zeal for your house consumes me’ (v.9a). He was so passionate about God’s house because that was the symbolic place of God’s presence with his people. The Message explains the zeal he expresses in this verse: ‘Because I’m madly in love with you’ (v.9a, MSG).

These words are applied by the disciples to Jesus when he cleanses the temple (John 2:17). Out of zeal for God’s house, Jesus drove off those who were trying to profit from a place of worship, taking advantage of those who wanted to draw near to God.

David is passionate about not bringing God’s name into disrepute. He does not want anyone to be disgraced because of him: ‘Don’t let those who look to you in hope be discouraged by what happens to me’ (Psalm 69:6, MSG). He knows his folly and guilt – as I know mine: ‘God, you know every sin I’ve committed; My life’s a wide-open book before you’ (v.5, MSG). David is concerned that this should not bring dishonour to God’s house.

Today, God’s house – the temple – is Christ and his body, his church (1 Peter 2:5). There is nothing wrong with being passionate about the church. Be zealous to see God’s name honoured in his church today.

Personally, I am inspired when I see a zeal for God’s house – a passion in worship, a ‘leaning in’ to the talks, an amazing welcome for every new person.

Passion is inspiring and infectious. We need more crazy love in the church today.