Chosen to be one body

 

Lectio Divina:*

Ezechiel 47:1-12

Psalm 46

1 Corinthians 3:9-17

John 2:13-22

 

Meditatio:

‘Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?  ’ (1 Cor 3:16)

 

Commentary (1,051)

This Sunday’s readings are steeped in rich symbolism, drawing us into a deeper understanding of Temple—both the ancient one in Jerusalem and the living temple of the Christian community. These texts were chosen for the Feast of the Dedication of the Basilica of St John Lateran (celebrated annually on November 9) which happens to fall on a Sunday this year. The next time this alignment occurs on a Sunday will be in 2031. So let’s pay close attention!

This feast commemorates the establishment of the oldest basilica in the Western Church, a sacred space gifted by Emperor Constantine in the early fourth century. As Christians emerged from homes and catacombs, they began worshipping in public temples—imperial gifts that signalled both religious freedom and spiritual transformation. St John Lateran, built on imperial land, became the mother church of Rome and the symbolic seat of the Bishop of Rome.

Though many have never heard of this basilica—let alone visited it—it remains the Pope’s cathedral, not St Peter’s. It stands as a physical reminder that the Pope is not only the earthly shepherd of the universal Church but also the Bishop of Rome. His role as “first among equals” in the college of bishops reflects a mission to unify and guide the Church in communion with the successor of Peter. Yet this role has long been a point of theological conflict and contestation, contributing to two major schisms: the East–West divide in 1054 and the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century. Today, Christianity remains fragmented, though ecumenical efforts over the last century have made meaningful strides toward unity.

Why Celebrate the Dedication of one Church?

Two reasons stand out. First, positively: it marks a pivotal moment in Christian history, rooted in the ministry of Peter and his successors. Second, as a caution: it reminds us to resist the allure of imperial grandeur, wealth, and the temptation to elevate human authority beyond its rightful place. The Gospel reading from John 2—where Jesus overturns the tables in the temple—serves as a stark warning against religious corruption. And Amos’s prophetic cry still echoes:

I hate, I despise your festivals, and I take no delight in your solemn assemblies. (Amos 5:21)

This critique of hollow worship is as relevant today as it was in 324 AD when Constantine laid the foundation for St John Lateran.

We are the Temple

Paul’s letter to the Corinthians reminds us of a profound truth:

Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? (1 Corinthians 3:16–17)

The Christian community is a living temple, built not of stone but of people joined together by the Spirit. Worship must never become idolatry of the building itself. Beautiful churches can lift our hearts to God—but they must point beyond themselves to Someone. History shows that even sacred spaces can be built on the backs of injustice, serving the glory of patrons more than the glory of God. True worship is found in Word and Sacrament, and in the living community—especially when the poor are served.

Jesus and the Temple

Jesus honoured the Temple and its rituals, yet He also challenged their misuse. His anger in today’s Gospel is not against worship, but against its distortion by money, power, and politics. These forces are part of human society, but Christians are called to engage them with integrity—liberating rather than oppressing, healing rather than exploiting.

Let the River Flow

Churches and sacraments are vital signs on the road to God. They open doors, but they are not the destination. The life that flows from our altars must flow outward—like the river in Ezekiel’s vision—bringing nourishment, healing, and hope to a world longing for meaning and peace.

We are not isolated individuals. We are one body, chosen to bring good news. In a culture that says, “My body, my choice,” we proclaim, “We are one body, and we have been chosen to bring the good news of life”

Oratio

Lord Jesus, thank you for coming among us. Make our hearts suitable dwelling places for your Spirit, and grant that, through the power of your resurrection, we may live with you forever.

Footnotes * 

 These readings are taken from the Sunday lectionary used in most Catholic churches. The source is BibleGateway.com: A searchable online Bible in over 150 versions and 50 languages (using the New Revised Standard Version - anglicised catholic edition). Psalms in this Blog are numbered according to the Hebrew (Masoretic) text with the Greek Septuagint/Vulgate numbering in parenthesis where applicable.