Day 19: Wednesday, Week 3—Changing My Name to Chrysler

Ezra 6:1-16; Psalm 84; Mark 11:15-19

In the late ’70s the word was out: American Motors was failing. The achievements of more than 75 years were going under. The many workers in Kenosha were going to be without work. Then at the eleventh hour an agreement was made between Chrysler and American Motors that Chrysler would buy the company and bring jobs back to the area. Contracts were negotiated between Chrysler and the state of Wisconsin for continued jobs and auto production for years to come. It was a great time of celebration.

Things weren’t quite the same, but cars were still being produced in Kenosha. Workers continued to have pride in the cars they produced and, for a time, life was good.

Yet, as we will witness in the rebuilding of the temple, problems will arise. The temple will be destroyed, and people will need to learn new ways.

For Kenosha, that has been difficult. It is still making the adjustment. The main plant stands as a monument to days gone by, but it is learning new ways.

For some, the memory of what was accomplished there will not be forgotten. Certainly history has a place for the city that first made Rambler, the many great cars of Nash, even the many models of American Motors, and then Chrysler? Many of the innovations that started in Kenosha, such as seat belts, and automotive air conditioning are part of the cars we drive today.

In the same way, after the reconstruction of the temple, destruction came. New ways needed to be learned. These new ways weren’t easy for them either. A new way of understanding being God’s first covenant people would arise and become modern Judaism. Christianity would already be growing, but it would come into its own following the temple destruction.

Our Gospels highlight Jesus’ attitude toward the temple, but his words and actions are more poignant because of Rome’s heavy hand.

All of this continues to illustrate that what humanity makes is temporary, but the word of the Lord is everlasting.

Prayer

Lord, our buildings and monuments continue to crumble and fall. Thank you for your continued caring and support. Amen