"When it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, Jesus went up to Jerusalem. In the temple courts he found people selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money. So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money-changers and overturned their tables. To those who sold doves he said, ‘Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!’"

(John 2.13-16 NIVUK)

The "market" in the temple courts provided convenience for some people and income for others. They seemed practical, but Jesus was not pleased with it and the people involved.

In some big churches these days, there are conveniences provided on site. Maybe a bookstore, a coffee shop, automated teller machine (ATM), etc. They are more sophisticated than the "market" in the Jerusalem temple above.

Or are they?

I think the market in the Jerusalem temple started small, but eventually grew to be something that displeased Jesus. I don't know how things are in your church. Let's make sure it does not turn into a "market".

Small things can creep up and influence decisions.

If I take inventory of my life, I can also find things that have grown beyond the initial need. More stuffs and/or more expensive stuffs to make home more "comfortable". Nicer car. Etc, etc. And they start crowding my heart and influence my decisions.

There only need to be God alone dwelling in my heart. I must not turn it into a "market".