Dear Christian Mentor, Can you walk with me through Lent? (Day 40 Cleansing)
Cleansing
"Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves.” ~ Matthew 21:12
Dear Christian Mentor,
I have participated in Lent many times, but it often feels like something I should do rather than an experience that draws me closer to the Lord. Can you walk with me through the season of Lent?
Dear Mentee,
As we journey through Holy Week, today we observe Holy Monday—a day that invites us into reflection and realignment. On this day, Jesus entered the temple and drove out the merchants who were buying and selling, declaring that what was meant to be a sacred place had become a “den of thieves.” The temple, designed for worship and communion with God, had been overtaken by distraction, self-interest, and misuse.
Jesus’ actions were not rooted in uncontrolled anger, but in a deep, righteous love—a purposeful cleansing. His heart was for restoration, for bringing the temple back to what it was always meant to be: a place where God dwells and is honored.
In the same way, Jesus desires to enter our lives—not to condemn us, but to lovingly cleanse what no longer belongs. Sometimes our hearts become crowded with distractions, habits, fears, or misplaced priorities that quietly take up space meant for Him. Holy Monday reminds us that cleansing is not punishment—it is an act of love that makes room for deeper intimacy with God.
Today’s Promise:
God’s cleansing brings renewal, not shame. When we invite Him in, He is faithful to restore, refresh, and realign our hearts with His purpose. He does not tear down without rebuilding something better.
Application Questions:
What in my life has taken up space that belongs to God?
Are there distractions or habits that are pulling my focus away from Him?
What might Jesus lovingly want to “overturn” or cleanse in my heart today?
How can I create more space for God’s presence in my daily life?
Today’s Fast:
Fast from distractions that clutter your heart—whether it’s social media, busyness, negative thinking, or the need for control. Each time you feel the pull toward that distraction, pause and invite Jesus into that space instead.
~ Christian Mentor
