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“A145 to counter 8. C253 to counter 4.”
As the computer-generated voice read each number, a person got up and made their way to the indicated counter.
“B172 to counter 2.”
When I must visit the department of motor vehicles, I anticipate being drawn to those waiting. The 16-year-old nervously twirling her hair, wondering if she had mastered parallel parking. The gentleman wearing a car dealership shirt and carrying a folder of title applications for the vehicles buyers purchased yesterday. Everyone anxiously looking at their phones, knowing this trip always takes far longer than anticipated.
Yet on this occasion, my eyes were drawn to those sitting behind the counters. Asking the same questions time and again about paperwork and fees and eye tests. Responding with firmness, not anger, to those who arrive without the necessary information. Customer by customer, doing the job that the state asked of them.
“A146 to Counter 7.”
I wonder whether the moneychangers and those who sold animals in the Temple approached their tasks like the employees at the DMV. Attempting to be faithful to the job that was asked of them. Seeking to prevent the idolatry of using Roman coins of commerce on the holy grounds of the Temple. Ensuring that those who had traveled a great distance could sacrifice an unblemished animal for worship. Just doing their job, helping others be faithful.
Then Jesus enters the Temple and starts turning everything upside down. Without the moneychangers and those selling and buying, the sacrificial system would grind to a halt. Of course we know that Jesus himself will be the sacrifice. But what happens to those who make their living doing a job they think is faithful to God’s call?
“C254 to Counter 3.”
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